Overview

On 8 April 2025 at 13h00, attendees joined an insightful lunchtime discussion on systemic investigations, presented by Theo Burrows and Francois Viljoen, OTO Specialists in Systemic Investigations. This dynamic session highlighted the critical role systemic investigations play in enhancing South Africa's tax administration system.

Participants gained a deeper understanding of key topics, including how systemic issues are identified, the review process, and how resolving these issues promotes fairness and efficiency. Through interactive discussions, real-life case studies, and an engaging Q&A session, they explored the practical impact of systemic investigations and their benefits for taxpayers and businesses alike.

Whether attendees were tax professionals, business owners, or simply interested in tax justice, the event offered valuable insights and actionable knowledge. It was a great opportunity to learn how systemic investigations contribute to fairness and transparency within our tax administration system, while also allowing participants to share input on potential issues that should be addressed.

Webinar Content

• What the OTO considers a systemic issue
• The importance of investigating and resolving systemic issues
• How potential systemic issues are identified
• The review process for systemic issues
• Monitoring progress on open systemic issues
• Engaging discussions on current open systemic issues

Competencies Developed

• Participated in interactive discussions to clarify potential systemic issues
• Understood what systemic issues are and why they need to be investigated
• Gained insight into the review process of systemic issues
• Stayed informed about current open systemic issues
• Identified potential systemic issues that could be addressed

Presenters

Francois Viljoen

Specialist: Systemic Investigations

Francois Viljoen is a Specialist in Systemic Investigations at the Office of the Tax Ombud (OTO), where he has served since 2015. His role involves identifying and addressing systemic tax issues to improve efficiency and fairness, as well as providing legal support.

He began his career at Anderson Rochussen van der Bijl Incorporated, completing his articles from 2007 to 2010. He then joined the South African Revenue Service (SARS), where he held roles in auditing and compliance from 2010 to 2015.

Viljoen holds a B. Accounting from the University of the Free State, a postgraduate Diploma in Business Administration, and an MBA from the University of Pretoria. He has also completed various specialised courses in trusts, customs compliance, and ISO 9001 certification.

Theo Burrows

The Tax Faculty: Technical Advisor

Theo Burrows is a seasoned Tax Practitioner with over 30 years of experience in the corporate, non-profit, and small business sectors. In addition to being a practising independent tax practitioner, he serves the tax community as a technical advisor for The Tax Faculty.

The combination of ongoing tax education and practical experience enables him to competently address more complex tax issues of both individuals and organisations. He draws on all these skills and combines them with in-depth knowledge and understanding of the tax environment to provide tax advisory services to both taxpayers and tax practitioners.

CPD

Attending this webinar and the successful completion of the online assessment will secure a certificate of completion for 1 hour of Tax CPD.

Event Investment

Complimentary access.