Desry van der Riet

Professional Accountant (SA) with more than 20 years of progressive finance experience across aerospace, manufacturing, agriculture, professional practice and the non-profit sector. Experienced in financial reporting, management accounts, treasury, payroll, taxation, budgeting, forecasting, ERP systems and statutory compliance. Recognised for strengthening finance processes, improving internal controls and providing reliable financial information that supports sound commercial decision-making.

A collaborative, hands-on finance professional with broad experience supporting growing organisations.

Finance Manager at Dragonfly Aerospace (Pty) Ltd (2024-01 – 2026-04)

Supported the South African finance function within a fast-growing aerospace manufacturer, partnering closely with the CFO and executive leadership across financial reporting, treasury, payroll, statutory compliance and finance process improvement.

• Prepared monthly management accounts and executive reporting.
• Managed treasury operations, including cash flow forecasting, foreign exchange and international supplier payments.
• Implemented Payspace payroll and strengthened payroll administration and compliance.
• Coordinated VAT, PAYE, statutory reporting and audit preparation.
• Improved finance processes and strengthened financial controls within Odoo ERP.
• Partnered with operational teams to improve financial visibility and reporting.

Senior Financial Accountant at Noble Savage Investments (Pty) Ltd (2023-06 – 2024-01)

Supported finance operations across hospitality and agricultural businesses, contributing to financial reporting, budgeting, compliance and process improvements.

• Prepared monthly financial reporting and reconciliations.
• Supported budgeting and forecasting.
• Assisted with audit preparation and statutory compliance.
• Strengthened finance processes and internal controls.

Co-Founder | Professional Accountant (SA) at BACH Accountants & Management Consultants (2011-03 – 2023-06)

Co-founded and helped build an accounting practice providing accounting, taxation, payroll, advisory and compliance services to businesses across multiple industries.

• Managed a diverse portfolio of business clients.
• Prepared and reviewed annual financial statements, management accounts and tax returns.
• Mentored junior accountants and reviewed technical work.
• Advised business owners on budgeting, cash flow, taxation and compliance.
• Contributed to the operational growth of the practice.

Financial Accountant at Eric Salomon & Co Chartered Accountants (SA) (2009-02 – 2011-02)

Prepared annual financial statements, tax returns and audit working papers while supporting a broad portfolio of clients.

Assistant Accountant at Carrol Boyes Functional Art (2008-03 – 2009-01)

Supported the finance department with reconciliations, general ledger processing, payroll support and month-end accounting.

SAIPA Trainee Accountant at Eric Salomon & Co Chartered Accountants (SA) (2003-03 – 2008-02)

Completed SAIPA articles while gaining comprehensive experience in accounting, taxation, auditing and financial reporting.

Treasurer (Volunteer) at Animal Anti-Cruelty League Cape Town (2009-03 – 2025-08)

• Served as Treasurer for over 16 years.
• Supported financial governance, budgeting and board reporting.
• Worked with auditors and committee members to strengthen financial accountability.

National Diploma in Financial Information Systems – Cape Peninsula University of Technology