Arvind Magan

Arvind Magan is the chief executive officer of Arvind Magan and Associates incorporated, a firm of accountants, auditors, tax advisors, and business consultants based in Umhlanga, Durban.

Arvind’s journey began in Durban, South Africa, where he was born and raised. As a first-generation South African, Arvind was brought up in significant hardship. “My dad was part of the last tranche of individuals who came over from India,” Arvind explains. “We lived in a communal home which housed five families.” His father’s initial work involved collecting and delivering laundry on a bicycle, a job that highlighted the sacrifices his parents made to provide for the family. “They always believed that education was a priority in our community. I saw firsthand the struggles and the resilience it took for my parents to give us a better life,” he recalls.

Despite these challenges, Arvind was fortunate to attend Gandhi Desai High School in the central business district of Durban. “After completing Grade 12, I went on to the then University of Durban-Westville, where I obtained a bachelor of accounting degree,” Arvind recounts. He continued his education part-time, completing his honours degree at UNISA while starting his first job. In 1992, Arvind qualified as a chartered accountant and auditor, marking the beginning of his professional career. “Those early experiences instilled in me the importance of perseverance and education as tools for empowerment,” he adds.

Arvind’s first job was as a trainee accountant at Ernst & Whinney (now EY) in Durban. “The starting salary for a trainee accountant back then was R374 a month,” Arvind recalls with a smile. “It was a modest start, but it laid the groundwork for everything that followed,” he reflects.

Arvind proudly highlights the growth of his firm over the years. “From starting with a single client, we’ve expanded our services and now serve some of KwaZulu-Natal’s largest and leading companies,” he adds.

CREATING A LEGACY OF TRUST
Arvind holds personal and professional ethics in high regard. “We’ve embraced and upheld high standards of professional ethics, honesty, and integrity, with a commitment to excellence,” he explains. For Arvind, this is not just a corporate mission but a personal one as well. “This should permeate our society,” he believes. “Our purpose is about creating a legacy of trust and excellence that extends beyond our immediate business,” Arvind says.

Starting Arvind Magan and Associates 21 years ago with just one client stands out as one of Arvind’s proudest achievements. “When I began, I only had one client,” Arvind shares. Over the years, through dedication and hard work, the firm has grown significantly. “Today, we count some of KwaZulu-Natal’s largest and leading companies among our clients,” Arvind says, reflecting on the progress made since those early days. “This journey has taught me the value of perseverance and the importance of building strong relationships,” he adds.

The best advice Arvind received came from his father: “Always maintain a standard of integrity. Whatever you do, maintain a good name.” This advice has been a guiding principle throughout Arvind’s professional journey. “It’s so important to have a good reputation,” Arvind says, noting that this has helped him build trust and credibility with clients, colleagues, and his team. “Your name is your most valuable asset,” he reflects.

Starting and growing his own business was the biggest challenge Arvind faced. “Stepping out from a working environment and into your own business is daunting,” he admits. The key to overcoming this challenge was staying focused, diligent, and maintaining a high standard of integrity. “I made a decision to remain focused and uphold a good reputation,” Arvind explains. This commitment has been instrumental in the success and growth of his business. “It’s been a journey of constant learning and adapting,” he adds, noting that challenges have only strengthened his resolve.

Arvind recognises the importance of valuing both clients and employees. “We ensure that we foster open communication, recognise efforts, and provide continuous professional development opportunities,” he says. Arvind’s approach to leadership is more about mentorship than management. “My door is always open for discussion,” he emphasises. Understanding and supporting his team, especially during challenging times, is crucial. “Engagement is critical because sometimes we don’t know what our team is going through,” Arvind notes. By being empathetic and offering guidance, Arvind helps his team navigate obstacles and remain motivated. “A supportive environment leads to greater success for everyone involved,” he believes.

Arvind’s vision for KwaZulu-Natal is a thriving economy driven by innovation, sustainability, and job creation. “Small businesses are vital for any economic growth,” Arvind asserts. He is passionate about fostering entrepreneurship and plays an active role in this area as the chairman of the Joseph Business School in Durban. “Our goal is to raise up entrepreneurs because they are key to South Africa’s economic future,” he says. Arvind is committed to supporting and nurturing the next generation of business leaders in the region. “In five years, I see KwaZulu-Natal as a hub of innovation and opportunity,” he envisions.

A HIGHER PURPOSE
Arvind finds inspiration in his faith, which gives him a sense of higher purpose. “Faith motivates me to strive for more than just financial success,” he explains. For Arvind, it’s about making a positive impact in the community and society at large. This belief drives him to use his success to benefit others and contribute to the greater good.

Arvind’s motto is: “Have faith in God in all areas of my life.” This belief has been his guiding light through the years and will continue to do so in the years to come. “Faith is the foundation upon which everything else is built,” he concludes.