The visionary CEO of Baker Tilly Central Africa, Courage G Matsa has built an impressive career in the accounting industry overcoming significant personal challenges and embracing the complexities of leadership. His journey, marked by resilience and a steadfast commitment to growth, has shaped him into a leader who drives excellence and inspires the next generation of accounting professionals.
In an interview with Business Frontier, Matsa speaks about expanding the company’s footprint across the continent with a focus on innovation, digital transformation, and sustainability, and paving the way for future leaders to make their mark.
Q. What personal challenges did you overcome to build a successful career in the accounting industry and how did those experiences shape your leadership style?
My path to success was underlined by a fair share of personal challenges, overcoming which only strengthened me. During my initial years, I battled with emotions such as self-doubt and imposter syndrome, which many young professionals will be able to relate to. However, I refused to let those hold me back.
These experiences taught me the power of perseverance and the importance of encouraging and supporting my team. Through sheer determination and a willingness to push past my comfort zone, I developed a sense of resilience that has become the cornerstone of my leadership.
My mission now is to foster an environment where everyone feels empowered to stretch their abilities and reach greater heights.
Q. As the CEO of Baker Tilly Central Africa, what are your most exciting goals and aspirations for the organisation?
Our vision for the future of Baker Tilly Central Africa is ambitious and transformative. We are committed to expanding our presence across this dynamic continent and bringing our expertise to new markets.
Our goal is to redefine the accounting profession in Africa by focusing on digital transformation and sustainability. This will position us as the trusted advisors to clients seeking to navigate challenges and capitalise on opportunities in this rapidly evolving landscape. We aspire to inspire the next generation of accounting and finance professionals to dream big and make their mark on this continent.
Q. What advice would you give young individuals considering a career in accounting, particularly within the dynamic African market?
Embrace the dynamism, complexity, and potential that lie ahead. This profession is not an ordinary one – it is a calling to be a driver of progress, a guardian of integrity, and a catalyst for positive change. The rules may be constantly changing, but that’s what makes the journey so exhilarating.
Cultivate a mindset of adaptability, curiosity, and innovation. Develop diverse skills that extend beyond the technical – refine your communication skills, problem-solving capabilities, and strategic vision. Most importantly, I want to advise them to bring an entrepreneurial spirit that sees challenges as opportunities and is unafraid to forge new paths. This is your chance to be part of something truly transformative – seize it with both hands and witness how you can transform not only your own life but also the very fabric of this continent.
Q. How do you maintain a healthy work-life balance?
In the demanding field of accounting, maintaining a healthy work-life balance is not just a luxury but a necessity. I have learned this firsthand and am committed to passing this lesson on to my team.
Our most significant accomplishments come not from endless toil but the clarity of mind and spirit. Whether it’s exercising, pursuing passion projects, or simply spending quality time with loved ones, I encourage professionals to protect that sacred personal space.
Only by nurturing our whole selves can we truly excel in our professional lives and make a lasting impact. I make it a point to play golf, spend quality time with my daughters and wife, and cultivate friendships that keep me connected to the world outside of work, which is essential for everyone.
Q. How does Baker Tilly Central Africa invest in its talent pool to ensure it has the expertise needed for the future?
Our people are the heart of our organisation. By investing in the growth and development of our talent pool, we are investing in the future of this continent. Our extensive training programmes and mentorship initiatives are designed to empower our team members to reach new heights, constantly push the boundaries of their abilities, and bring their unique perspectives to the table.
We foster a culture of innovation and collaboration, where everyone feels empowered to take on new challenges and contribute to the firm’s collective success. By continuously cultivating our human capital, we ensure that we have the agility, expertise, and forward-thinking mindset to meet the evolving needs of our clients and lead the way in this ever-changing landscape.
Q. Baker Tilly Central Africa now operates across four countries. What were the strategic considerations behind this expansion, and how do you ensure a unified approach across borders?
Baker Tilly Central Africa’s strategic expansion across multiple countries demonstrates our dedication to serve the African market excellently. Establishing a regional footprint allows us to leverage synergies, share best practices, and deliver high-quality service to our clients.
We understand the importance of adapting to local nuances and tailoring our solutions to the unique needs of each market. Through knowledge sharing and collaboration, our teams work together seamlessly, benefiting from diverse perspectives and regional expertise. This approach enables us to push the boundaries of what’s possible, driving progress and innovation across borders.
