Open to opportunities

Sathia Govender

@sathiagovender

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Globally experienced financial and accounting professional with strategic expertise.

South Africa

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What I'm looking for

I am looking for a role that fosters innovation and strategic growth, where I can leverage my extensive experience in corporate finance to drive impactful results and mentor emerging leaders.

I am a globally experienced Corporate Finance Professional with over 18 years of expertise in financial management, investment strategy, and corporate advisory services. My career has been marked by a proven track record in driving business growth, structuring deals, and leading cross-functional teams across diverse industries including energy, ICT, aviation, and private equity.

Throughout my journey, I have developed a strong ability to implement business strategies, including market entry and growth strategies. My extensive knowledge of corporate governance frameworks, risk management, and compliance standards has allowed me to lead teams effectively, mentor executives, and drive organizational success. As a Chartered Accountant, I have honed my skills in capital raising, mergers and acquisitions, and financial modeling, ensuring optimal stakeholder engagement and sustainable outcomes.

Experience

Work history, roles, and key accomplishments

Current

Non-Executive Chairman

Current

Gallivant Africa

Jan 2025 - Present (4 months)

Appointed Non-Executive Chairman of Gallivant Africa, leveraging 18+ years as a Financial Services Professional and seasoned investment strategist. Focused on pan-African deal execution, corporate governance, and cross-sector advisory to drive transformative growth.

Corporate Governance Risk Mitigation Stakeholder Management Deal Structuring

Current

Founder & Chief Executive Officer

Current

Gig Central

Jan 2025 - Present (4 months)

As Founder & CEO of Gig Central, I lead a FinTech and AI-powered company in the Gig Economy, focusing on innovation, digital platform development, and scalable business growth strategies.

Fintech Business Development Growth Strategy Market Development

Current

Non-Executive Director

Current

African Capital Partners

Jul 2020 - Present (4 years 10 months)

Providing strategic advisory services in valuation, mergers & acquisitions, and transaction support. Conducting industry research and managing stakeholder relationships for various clients.

Valuation Stakeholder Management Financial Modeling Advisory Project Management Corporate Finance

Current

Chief Advisor & Non-Executive Director

Current

Eraton Holdings Pvt Ltd

Jul 2024 - Present (10 months)

Serving as Chief Advisor to the Board of Directors at Eraton Holdings, providing expertise in investment management, risk advisory, and M&A advisory. Overseeing strategic investment decisions and ensuring optimal stakeholder alignment.

Investment Management M&A Corporate Governance Financial Analysis Deal Structuring Project Management Advisory

Consulting CFO

Skywise Airlines

Jan 2016 - Jan 2016 (0 months)

Led equity capital raising, financial transformation, and operational planning as Consulting CFO at Skywise Airlines, ensuring compliance and efficiency in financial operations.

Capital Raising Budget Management Compliance Financial Reporting Risk Management Strategic Planning Cash Flow Forecasting Stakeholder Engagement

Chief Executive Officer

EMCO-EDISON

May 2011 - Sep 2011 (4 months)

Implemented a capital raising strategy and led a turnaround for EMCO EDISON, managing operations across eight African countries and securing agency contracts.

Capital Raising Operations Management M&A Compliance Business Development Financial Management Strategic Planning Strategy Stakeholder Engagement

Chief Executive Officer

Ugezi Energy

Jan 2007 - Jan 2010 (3 years)

Led Ugezi Energy's strategic growth in the alternative power sector, focusing on business development and establishing key supplier relationships.

Business Development Strategic Development Financial Management M&A Banking Negotiations Project Management

Audit Intern

Grant Thornton International Inc., SA

Jan 2003 - Aug 2005 (2 years 7 months)

Supported annual financial statement audits for various South African firms while completing post-graduate studies and passing SAICA board exams.

Financial Audit Compliance Financial Statements SAICA Exams Risk Assessment Team Collaboration Analytical Skills Reporting

Education

Degrees, certifications, and relevant coursework

South African Institute of Chartered Accountants

Professional Qualification, Chartered Accountancy

2004 - 2005

Successfully completed Part 1 and Part 2 of the SAICA Qualifying Examination, earning the designation of Chartered Accountant (CA) and demonstrating expertise in accounting, auditing, and financial management.

University of South Africa

Honours Bachelor of Accounting Sciences, Accounting Sciences

2002 - 2003

Earned an Honours Bachelor of Accounting Sciences (Hons. BCompt/CTA), which is a critical step toward becoming a Chartered Accountant (CA) in South Africa.