Andrew Kruger

Andrew Kruger is currently a director at DRG Outsourcing and plays a significant role in BusinessFit, a company within the DRG Group. He elaborated, “BusinessFit is focused on helping and mentoring entrepreneurs through a scientific approach to business.” This dual role allows Andrew to leverage his expertise to support the growth and success of other businesses. “I’m very involved with entrepreneurs, assisting them in their journeys and helping them become successful,” he noted.

Reflecting on his early years, he shared, “I was born in Port Elizabeth, and I grew up there until I was 12, attending Grey Junior School.” His family’s move to Durban came when his father received a promotion. “At 12, we moved to Durban, and I continued my education at Westville Boys’ High School,” he recalled. This change marked a significant chapter in his upbringing and education. For his higher education, Andrew attended the University of KwaZulu-Natal, which was both close to home and his university of choice. “I pursued my BCom and then completed my honours to qualify as a chartered accountant,” he explained. This laid the foundation for his career in finance and business.

After qualifying, Andrew stepped straight into the practical world through his articles, securing a position with Deloitte. Starting as a first-year clerk, Andrew embraced the responsibilities of entry- level tasks. “I did all the menial activities that first- year clerks do and gradually moved up through the ranks,” he shared. By his third year, he was responsible for leading audits. “Once my articles were completed, I officially qualified as a chartered accountant,” he said.

STRATEGIC GUIDANCE
Andrew’s motivation is rooted in both financial and strategic purposes. “Finance is important to me as a chartered accountant,” he explained. His main priority is ensuring the financial health of his business. “If a business is not doing well financially, it’s not sustainable,” he asserted. To him, the sustainability of a business means it can contribute positively to society and support its employees. He also expressed his passion for assisting small and medium enterprises: “I enjoy helping small businesses understand the difference between profit and cash flow.” By guiding them, he enables entrepreneurs to achieve greater financial and strategic stability. “I find joy in seeing businesses grow and succeed through strategic guidance and sound financial practices,” he said.

Andrew is optimistic about the future of business in KwaZulu-Natal. “KZN is unique, especially after what we’ve been through in the past two years,” he noted, referring to the community’s resilience. He believes that the collaborative spirit in KZN will fuel growth. “The community here is very close- knit, and this collaboration is key to business success,” he explained. With a focus on attracting local and foreign investment, Andrew sees KZN flourishing. “I am excited to be part of that growth,” he said, noting the enthusiasm and determination of local entrepreneurs.

Motivating a team, according to Andrew, involves ensuring that everyone understands their role and its significance. “If staff know how their work contributes to the business as a whole, they’re more motivated,” he explained. Encouraging pride in their contributions is key: “I want them to be proud of their work and ensure that when it’s passed on, it’s in the best condition possible.” Additionally, he believes in empowering his team by allowing them to make decisions and learn from their experiences. “Even if they make the wrong decision, it’s a learning opportunity that prepares them for the future,” he said.

AN INCREDIBLE ACHIEVEMENT
When asked about his proudest achievement, Andrew didn’t focus on career accolades but instead on family. “My biggest accomplishment is my family. I have a wonderful wife and three beautiful daughters,” he stated with pride. “Just watching them grow and develop into independent individuals is an incredible achievement for me.” His eldest daughter’s successful transition to university life is a particular point of pride: “Seeing her leave home, manage her own life, and thrive is immensely rewarding.”

Reflecting on his greatest personal challenge, Andrew shared, “The biggest challenge I faced was when my eldest daughter was diagnosed with a serious heart condition when she was a nine-year- old.” He described the difficulty of being unable to take direct action during her treatment: “There was nothing I could do. She was in the hands of the doctors, and I had to learn to rely on faith.” This period tested his resilience and taught him valuable lessons about acceptance and trust. “The hardest part was recognising that some things are out of your control,” he said.

Andrew finds inspiration in a timeless piece of advice: “A journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step.” He explained, “Sometimes, when facing a daunting task, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. But starting with that single step makes all the difference.” This approach has shaped his life, helping him tackle challenges methodically. “Once you’ve taken that first step, the path ahead becomes clearer,” he said. This advice has encouraged him to push through challenges without being paralysed by the enormity of tasks.

Andrew credits much of his inspiration to his parents and a high school teacher. “I grew up in a stable home with parents who were always supportive,” he recalled. Their involvement and encouragement were invaluable. “My parents have been married for over 50 years, which is inspirational on its own,” he added. He also mentioned his high school accountancy teacher. “He inspired many students to pursue accountancy and made a significant impact,” Andrew said.

Andrew says that his guiding principle comes from scripture. “When I was a boy, I had a verse on my wall from Proverbs 3:6: ‘In all your ways acknowledge Him, and He will guide your paths,’” he shared. This verse has been a cornerstone of his life and a message he has passed on to his children. “It’s important to me to use God as my guide and mentor, and I truly believe He has led my path,” Andrew concluded.