Izel Frick is Addendum’s Head of Finance. A qualified Chartered Accountant, she heads up the company’s finance division with precision.
Having joined Addendum at a pivotal time in the company’s journey, she was instrumental in implementing the structure and reporting rigour that support a maturing organisation.
What makes Izel’s contribution especially valuable is her ability to translate complex financial data into practical insights that bring value to all levels of the company.
She will never admit to this talent, but her secret superpower is making incredible desserts, a true spoil the office gets to enjoy at our regular potlucks!.
Outside of work, Izel is a mother of three and a firm believer in managing life with grace, structure, and a bit of humour. As part of our Women’s Month series, she shared her thoughts on career, motherhood, and finding balance.
“I’ve always had a passion for numbers and problem-solving. Analysing figures feels a bit like detective work – it’s about finding the patterns and piecing the puzzle together.”
1. Were you always interested in finance, or how did you find your way into the field?
I’ve always had a passion for numbers and problem-solving. Analysing figures feels a bit like detective work – it’s about finding the patterns and piecing the puzzle together.
After school, I applied to study both medicine and accounting at Stellenbosch University. When I didn’t get into medicine, I chose accounting, and looking back, I wouldn’t change a thing. The field suits me perfectly.
2. Thinking back to your very first job, which skill from that time still serves you today?
Working in a diverse environment. During my articles at Ernst & Young, I was constantly switching teams, managers, and partners. That taught me how to adapt quickly, build working relationships fast, and get the job done regardless of the dynamic.
It also helped me become comfortable navigating different personalities and leadership styles. Lessons that are still valuable today.
3. If you couldn’t work in finance, which other career would appeal to you, and why?
Probably teaching. I’d still want it to be in maths or accounting, though. I love helping others understand complex things and sharing my passion for the subject. There’s something very rewarding about seeing that “aha!” moment when a concept clicks for someone.
PRODUCTIVITY & SUCCESS
4. By the time you reach bedtime, what does a truly successful day look like, professionally and personally?
Professionally, it’s ticking off at least half of the tasks on my to-do list for the day, especially the high-priority ones. Personally, it’s quality time with my children, where we finish homework – without a fight – and everyone gets to bed with a smile.
5. In your daily routine, which “must-do” tasks anchor your morning at the office?
I need breakfast. Hunger and spreadsheets don’t mix! Because I work half-days, I use the early hours to go through emails and prep for meetings before the rest of the team logs on. That quiet time helps me plan clearly and stay focused for the rest of the day.
6. How do you turn complex numbers into stories that non-finance colleagues can act on, or is everyone at Addendum already finance-savvy?
Not everyone needs the same detail. One of the great things about finance is how it can be tailored to your audience. Directors may want insights into profit margins and cash flow, while team members care about whether we’re on track for bonuses. Shareholders, again, are focused on returns and valuation. My role is to provide the right level of context for each group, so they make confident decisions based on what matters most to them.
HOME LIFE & MOTHERHOOD
7. With three children, a demanding role at Addendum and limited hours, which small routines keep home and work in harmony?
I treat motherhood like my second job, and I try hard not to let the two overlap. I don’t have my work emails or Microsoft Teams on my phone, so when I’m home, I switch off properly. During busy times, I shift work into the evenings once the kids are in bed. That boundary helps me be present for both roles.
8. Has parenthood influenced the way you approach risk-taking or budgeting at work?
It’s definitely sharpened my soft skills. Parenthood taught me how to be more productive, flexible, and adaptable. Children don’t follow instructions or timelines, just like projects sometimes don’t! You learn to pivot fast, which is useful when plans change unexpectedly.
9. When your children ask what you do, how do you explain finance to them, and have they adopted any “finance habits” from you?
They’re still young, so I keep it simple: “Mum makes sure the money is in the right place and everyone gets paid.” They haven’t picked up any finance habits yet, but I do see that they love maths, which makes me hopeful.
HOBBIES
10. Which hobbies or relaxing activities help you stay balanced?
Supporting my kids in all their activities – sports matches, choir performances – you name it. That’s a hobby on its own! I also enjoy jogging with my dogs three times a week, and when time allows, I love doing something creative like painting. Art gives me a different kind of focus.
QUICK-FIRE QUESTIONS
Favourite warm drink?
Hot chocolate, every time!.
Top productivity hack?
Planning. I keep a to-do list at work and a weekly schedule stuck on the fridge at home.
One song that boosts your focus?
Hans Zimmer if I need deep focus, but when the numbers are dragging, I switch to gospel or Afrikaans music to lift the mood.
