Karen Pattinson
Financial Advisor/Bookkeeper
Profile
Experienced and versatile professional with over 25 years in the motor
industry, combining deep expertise in bookkeeping, financial
management, and vehicle sales. Proven track record as a highperforming Sales Executive and Dealer Principal, later transitioning into
Financial & Insurance advising and business ownership. Skilled in
Pastel Accounting, Pastel Payroll, VMG dealership systems, and
QuickBooks Online (certified user). Holds a BA Honours in Psychology
and recent TEFL certification. Known for exceptional client service,
regulatory compliance, and hands-on leadership in both large and small
business settings.
Employment History
Equity Auto, [Pretoria]
Business Owner | 2023 – Present
- Manage all aspects of the business, including bookkeeping, stock
acquisition, and personnel.
- Use VMG software (Pastel-based) for financial and operational tracking
tailored to motor dealerships.
- Oversee vehicle sourcing, pricing, and sales processes in a lean, selfsustaining setup.
- Maintain compliance with financial and tax obligations while optimizing
cash flow.
- Founded the business as a semi-retirement venture, leveraging
decades of industry expertise.
Details
Pretoria
South Africa
-
karenpattinson73@gmail.
com-
Skills
Ability to Multitask
Effective Time Management
Quickbooks Online Certified
Computer Skills
Communication Skills
Languages
English
Afrikaans
Car Guys Gauteng, Pretoria
Finance & Insurance Advisor / Bookkeeper | 2016 – August 2023
- Created and implemented tailored financial solutions based on individual client needs.
- Advised clients on a range of insurance products, ensuring optimal financial protection.
- Maintained precise bookkeeping and financial records using VMG, a dealership management system
based on Pastel.
- Ensured full compliance with F&I regulatory requirements and internal dealership processes.
- Strengthened customer loyalty through expert advice and professional client service
Jakaranda Motors, [Pretoria]
Dealer Principal & Bookkeeper | 2010 – 2016
- Directed dealership operations across sales, finance, admin, and service departments.
- Managed VAT, payroll, and SARS submissions using Pastel Accounting and Pastel Payroll.
- Led a team to consistently exceed sales targets and streamline business processes.
- Oversaw financial reporting, audits, inventory, and compliance.
Previous Roles: Sales Executive | Bookkeeper & Office Assistant | 1998 – 2010
- Excelled in vehicle sales, averaging 30 vehicles per month over 10 years.
- Built strong customer relationships, resulting in high client retention and referrals.
- Supported bookkeeping and admin functions using Pastel, including reconciliations and payroll support.
- Promoted from junior roles to senior sales based on performance and initiative.
Education
Bachelors Degree, University of Pretoria, Pretoria
I graduated with a major in Psychology and a minor in Criminology.
Subjects: Psychology
Criminology
Sociology
Political Science
Comparative Politics
Information Sciences
BA Honours in Psychology, University of Pretoria, Pretoria
Subjects: Psychopathology
Social Psychology
Research Psychology
Psychodynamics of Behaviour
Counselling Psychology
Psychometric Training
Personality Psychology
Clinical Psychology
Basic Developmental Psychology
Community Psychology
TEFL Training - The TEFL Academy
February 2024 - June 2024
Grade - Merit
Units:
Created lessons for a variety of levels from pre-intermediate to advanced
Teaching speaking, listening, reading and writing
Material & resource creation, utilising the internet
English grammar and how to teach the essential language
Needs analysis and teaching in different situations
Classroom management and teaching techniques
Additional Exams passed in the Financial Industry
RE1 - First Regulatory Examination: FSPs and Key Individual in Categories I, II, IIA, III and IV - 2012
RE5 - First Regulatory Examination: Representatives - 2012
NCA Qualification - Accreditation in regards to the National Credit ACT
Courses
FAIS Short Term Insurance Qualification, Alcari Learning Centre
January 2014 — June 2014
QuickBooks Online Certified User
Intuit / QuickBooks Certification
Intuit Certified Bookkeeping
Professional
