Local Business Triumph: Emma Pardoe Chartered Accountants Turns 20!
For Emma Pardoe, Somerset West has always been home. Born in HH Hospital, with the Helderberg Mountain as a constant backdrop, she grew up with a vision – to enrich her hometown with more opportunity. While Somerset West offered a beautiful lifestyle, Emma felt there were too many things you had to travel to the city to find. Determined to make a difference, she set off to gain experience and expertise, with the goal of bringing back valuable knowledge to help local businesses thrive.
On 1 March 2005, she took a leap of faith and launched her own chartered accounting and auditing practice from a humble home office. She had a dream and an unwavering belief that her services could make a difference. Fast forward 20 years, and that small office has transformed into a well-established firm located at 5 Fagan Street, with a team of 16 professionals. Looking back, Emma still considers that first day one of the most pivotal moments in her career – the day she set her vision into motion.
A Dream Realised
From the very beginning, Emma was passionate about helping business owners navigate the complexities of compliance, tax, and accounting. But she wanted to do more than just keep the books balanced – she aimed to provide strategic financial guidance, helping businesses grow and thrive.
Her firm quickly became known for its personalised, professional approach, offering holistic financial solutions that go beyond mere compliance. By deeply understanding each client's business, Emma and her team identify potential challenges before they arise and explore every opportunity for growth.
Over the years, the accounting landscape has evolved dramatically, shifting from manual processes to digital platforms, and Emma’s business has adapted seamlessly. Today, her firm services clients not just locally, but nationally and globally.
A defining moment came in 2016 when a billionaire businessman from Gauteng approached her with a game-changing opportunity. He wanted to invest millions into a Cape Town hospitality group but insisted on replacing their entire finance team with Emma’s firm before moving forward. This appointment opened new doors, reinforcing her expertise in property investment and structuring, particularly for both local and foreign investors.
Supporting Business Growth in Somerset West
Emma believes in the power of local business, understanding that small enterprises are the lifeblood of a community. Supporting local businesses not only stimulates economic growth but also fosters innovation and strengthens social connections.
Her firm has been deeply involved in local initiatives over the years, serving as the official auditor for the Round Table Noddy Party and The Playhouse, while actively sponsoring school and charity fundraisers and offering discounted fees to local NPOS.
Her advice to local businesspeople is simple but powerful: “Enthusiasm creates opportunities, and energy makes the most of them.” Through this mindset, she has not only built a thriving business but also contributed to the economic vitality of our village.
Onwards and Upwards
Today, we celebrate Emma Pardoe and her team for reaching this incredible milestone. With most businesses struggling to survive their first few years, 20 years of success is a remarkable achievement. Emma’s commitment to serving the Somerset West community has resulted in more than just a successful business – it has created jobs, supported countless entrepreneurs, and strengthened the local, national and global economy.
When asked about the future of her company, she simply smiled and said, “Watch this space.” If the past 20 years are anything to go by, we can be certain that Emma will remain a driving force of integrity, professionalism, and inspiration in the business economy of Somerset West.
Here's to the next 20 years!
