Theo Matobo CA(SA), 34

Finalist: Transformative Leader | SAICA Top-35-Under-35 Awards 2025

Theo Matobo is a Chartered Accountant whose leadership is transforming how talent is developed, how leaders are nurtured, and how organisations grow. At 34, he serves as Director of Learning & Development and SAICA Training Officer at Makosi, where he has built two departments from the ground up redefining the role of learning in business strategy.

Theo’s journey is defined by bold innovation and purpose-driven impact. With limited resources and high expectations, he founded Makosi’s Learning & Development Department and South Africa’s first virtual and international SAICA Training Office. What began as an uphill challenge is now a recognised success: L&D is a strategic partner consulted on new deals, market expansions, and organisational initiatives.

His leadership extends beyond technical training. Theo designed and implemented Makosi’s consultants’ leadership competency framework, then scaled it into a company-wide framework that sets consistent, future-focused standards across all levels. He also launched Makosi’s first Manager Assessment Centre, a structured, data-driven process for identifying and developing high-potential leaders strengthening decision-making and building a robust leadership pipeline.

Theo’s approach is rooted in the belief that innovation thrives under constraint. Where others saw limitations, he saw opportunity. He leveraged technology, built partnerships, and created scalable frameworks that deliver high impact without high cost. His initiatives include complex audit simulations, strategic learning paths, and leadership development programmes that stretch thinking and prepare professionals for global markets.

His impact reaches beyond Makosi. As a judge for the SAICA Trainee of the Year Awards and a member of the Thuthuka Alumni Committee, Theo mentors aspiring CAs, helping them navigate their careers and think creatively about their growth and contribution. His work shapes not only technical excellence but also the leadership capacity of CAs operating in dynamic, global environments.

Theo’s career is marked by consistent excellence. He passed both SAICA board exams on his first attempt, graduated (BCom Honours Accounting) top of his class at the University of the Free State, and won multiple academic awards including First Place in Financial Management, Taxation, and Financial Accounting. His professional experience spans KPMG South Africa and Germany, the Auditor-General of South Africa, and Makosi with a focus on audit, training, and strategic development.

He is also a registered SAICA assessor and has led the implementation of learning management systems, e-learning platforms, and CPD initiatives. His work has enabled Makosi to deliver targeted, scalable training solutions and to position itself as a leader in virtual talent development.

Theo Matobo leads with vision, courage, and conviction. His story is a testament to what’s possible when leadership is defined not by age or resources, but by purpose and outcomes. He exemplifies the spirit of a Transformative Leader building systems that outlast individuals, empowering others to lead, and shaping the future of the profession.