ABOUT THE BOOKS
WHERE TO BUY THIS BOOK
SOUTH AFRICA – HERE
ABOUT THIS BOOK
What does it take to lead at the highest levels? In Financial Minds, KC Rottok Chesaina once again goes beyond the beans to uncover the raw, human stories of South Africa’s most influential financial leaders.
This collection of deep-dive profiles reveals that the journey to the top is rarely a straight line. From overcoming childhood poverty in rural Limpopo to navigating the high-stakes boardrooms of Sandton and international offices in Milan and London, these leaders share the pivotal moments that shaped them.
Inside, you will find:
- The Power of Resilience: How leaders turned personal tragedies, such as being orphaned or facing near-fatal accidents, into the fuel for their professional fire.
- Redefining Success: Insights from CEOs and CFOs who measure their legacy not by titles , but by the lives they influence and the ubuntu they practice daily.
- Leadership Unmasked: Personal accounts of battling imposter syndrome, managing the delicate balance of blended families, and finding sanctuary in hobbies like mountain climbing, poetry, and marathon running.
- Future-Ready Insights: Perspectives on the evolution of AI, the importance of sustainable reporting, and why culture really eats strategy for breakfast.
Financial Minds is more than a business book; it is a masterclass in the ‘intangible things’ — empathy, discipline, and conviction required to thrive in any industry. Whether you are an aspiring professional or a seasoned executive, these stories offer a powerful reminder that while technical skills may open doors, it is character and heart that keep them open.
WHERE TO BUY THIS BOOK
SOUTH AFRICA – HERE
KENYA – HERE
ELSEWHERE – HERE
ABOUT THIS BOOK
“A fantastic opportunity to drink from the pool of excellence..” Bonang Mohale, President of Business Unity South Africa
“The CEO X Factor is a must-read…” Bronwyn Nielsen, Founding Editor of CNBC Africa
“Insights into leadership and achievement…” Nhlanhla Nene, Former SA Finance Minister
Chief executive officers (CEOs) can make millions of rands in profit, build up a business from nothing or turn around a company that was on the verge of bankruptcy. Inspiring with their relentless drive, strong leadership and innovation that can turn whole industries on their head, they are the dynamos of our economy.
What is the CEO X Factor that ensures their stratospheric success?
Chartered accountant and writer, KC Rottok Chesaina, seeks to uncover the unique personality traits, business acumen and leadership values that have turned them into captains of industry. Based on extensive interviews with the leaders of some of our top companies, including Vodacom, Bidvest, Capitec, Pamodzi Gold, Discovery Health, Nedbank, Sanlam, Momentum, Nampak, Exxaro and PWC Africa, the book takes you to the heart of corporate South Africa.
The CEO X Factor shows that to reach the top is about much more than the money – it requires a very specific kind of character, straightforward strategies, a true focus on people and a value-driven approach.
WHERE TO BUY THIS BOOK
SOUTH AFRICA – HERE
KENYA – HERE
ELSEWHERE – HERE
ABOUT THE BOOK
The chief financial officer (CFO) is critical to a company’s financial success. In Masters of Money, chartered accountant and entrepreneur KC Rottok Chesaina interviews 31 CFOs from South Africa’s top companies, most JSE-listed, to uncover their strategies for success.
Masters of Money goes behind the scenes and allows students, professionals, entrepreneurs and managers to learn from the best. In sharing valuable lessons – learnt over many years – these finance leaders give readers the inside track to make it in the world of business. They share insights on the key elements of an effective strategy, the power of good communication, how to lead teams effectively, why values are important in the workplace, and how to deal with crises.
Their stories show the human face behind the number cruncher and give readers a glimpse of the X-factor needed to rise to the top.
FEATURED COMPANIES INCLUDE:
MTN South Africa, JSE, Old Mutual, FirstRand, Capitec, Nedbank, Investec, Sanlam, Redefine Properties, Liberty, Discovery, Aspen Pharmacare, Life Healthcare, Woolworths, Pick n Pay, Massmart, Nampak, Sasol, Impala Platinum, Barloworld, Anglo American Platinum, Harmony Gold, Kumba Iron Ore, PPC, Exxaro, Tourvest, Mr Price and Nando’s.
WHERE TO BUY THIS BOOK
SOUTH AFRICA – HERE
KENYA – HERE
ABOUT THE BOOK
In Beyond the Beans, KC Rottok Chesaina challenges the outdated stereotype of accountants as mere “bean counters” and celebrates their transformation into influential leaders who shape both business strategies and societal outcomes. The book explores how accountants, once confined to managing financial figures, now play pivotal roles. These financial professionals leverage their expertise to drive growth, innovation, and long-term success in both the private and public sectors.
Central to this transformation is the theme of grit, resilience, and perseverance. Many of the leaders featured have overcome significant challenges, illustrating how tenacity enables accountants to thrive in high-pressure environments. The book also highlights the importance of self-mastery, continuous growth, and empathy in leadership, showing how successful finance professionals are lifelong learners who lead with compassion and authenticity. The conversations stem from one-on-one interviews with CEOs, CFOs, Financial Managers and the leadership of prominent audit firms.
The book includes commentary from the profession’s pioneers Wiseman Nkuhlu, Nonkululeko Gobodo and Jeff Van Rooyen. Diversity, inclusion, and transformation are also key themes, as the profession evolves to reflect a more inclusive and equitable environment. Whether in the private or public sector, accountants are now at the forefront of decision-making, guiding organisations through change and making a meaningful impact on society. Beyond the Beans portrays accountants as leaders who are planting the seeds for a better future.
WHERE TO BUY THIS BOOK
SOUTH AFRICA – HERE
ABOUT THE BOOK
Architects of Influence is a book about South Africa’s most powerful women, leaders who are navigating headwinds and breaking new ground every day. Maria Ramos stands out as the first female CEO of a South African bank, turning obstacles into opportunities. Mary Vilakazi leads FirstRand as its first woman chief, while Mpumi Madisa is forging her path as the first female CEO of Bidvest. Michelle Philips, an advocate by training, is steering Transnet through turbulent seas. Thuli Madonsela, the brave former public protector, continues her quest for social justice while Mpumi Zikalala turns ore to awe at Kumba.
Leila Fourie is the CEO of the JSE, balancing risk and opportunity with deft composure. Jeanette Marais is the first female CEO of a large, listed insurer, rewriting what’s possible. Magda Wierzycka, the maverick founder of Sygnia, is reshaping the money game while Phuthi Mahanyele-Dabengwa leads as the pioneering female CEO of Naspers. Precious Moloi-Motsepe, billionaire philanthropist and entrepreneur, proves that influence can be wielded for the greater good. Ruwayda Redfearn stands tall as the first female CEO of Deloitte Africa and Val Nichas, at Spur Corporation, shows how leadership can be an act of service.
The IFRS Pocket Book by KC Rottok Chesaina is a practical, go-to guide for finance professionals who need fast, clear answers in today’s complex reporting environment.
This concise pocket book distils key requirements of IFRS, IFRS for SMEs and Sustainability reporting into easy-to-use pictorial cheat sheets, covering definitions, recognition and measurement principles. Complex standards are simplified into clear, business-focused summaries designed for real-world application.
WHERE TO BUY THIS BOOK
KENYA – HERE
ELSEWHERE – HERE
ABOUT THE BOOK
At 10 p.m. on July 11, 2022, a deafening explosion on Langata Road echoed through the air as a car somersaulted over the tarmac, careening through three different roads before coming to a rest, an overturned wreck. Kimulwon Chesaina’s life ended abruptly, leaving a trail of mourning hearts in its wake. What were the events that led to this calamitous incident? Who was Kimulwon, beyond the headlines and the accident report? What were the triumphs and tribulations that defined his forty-eight-year existence?
In this unvarnished narrative, meticulously documented by his sole brother, we journey through the intricate tapestry of Kimulwon’s life. We delve into themes ranging from a historical connection with the formidable Moi family, to the scars of childhood trauma, the dynamics of political patronage, the complexities of love and separation, the battle for mental well-being, the shackles of generational patterns, the trials and triumphs of entrepreneurship, the call to public service, and the quintessence of ‘I went to Alliance’.
This compelling account lifts the veil on a life that was both celebrated and challenged and will leave an indelible imprint on the hearts and minds of those who immerse themselves in this must-read narrative.
