Our People
A skilled team driven by accuracy, integrity, and results.
Geraldine Old-Coetzee (CA(SA) RA)
CEO | Director at Herbert & Liebisch Incorporated
Geraldine is a Director of Herbert & Liebisch Incorporated and serves as the Chief Executive Officer of the firm. Since joining HL in 2016, she has become an integral part of the leadership team, bringing with her a wealth of expertise in assurance and risk management.
She qualified as a Chartered Accountant (SA) in 2013 after completing her SAICA training contract with PwC in the Financial Services, Insurance and Investment Management division. Following her time at PwC, Geraldine took up the role of Risk Manager at a specialist risk insurance company, gaining valuable experience in cell captive structures, FAIS, Treating Customers Fairly (TCF), and the regulatory frameworks governed by the FSB (now FSCA).
At HL, Geraldine leads and manages audit teams, oversees the firm’s SAICA training programme as an accredited training officer, and is passionate about delivering high-quality professional services. Her commitment to excellence, combined with her technical expertise and leadership, drives the firm’s continued growth and client satisfaction.
Liezel Joubert (CA(SA) RA)
Director | Herbert & Liebisch Incorporated | Admitted Attorney
Liezel Joubert is a Director at Herbert & Liebisch Incorporated, bringing a unique dual-discipline background in law and accounting to her leadership role. An admitted attorney, Liezel transitioned into the accounting profession in 2012 when she began her SAICA training contract at HL Inc. She qualified as a Chartered Accountant (SA) in 2019 and was promoted to partner in 2020.
Liezel plays a key role in managing audit engagements and is extensively involved in the tax and accounting departments, ensuring the delivery of accurate, compliant, and client-centric financial services. Her legal background adds valuable insight to the firm’s regulatory and governance framework, enhancing the quality and integrity of its assurance and advisory offerings.
Liezel is known for her meticulous attention to detail, strong analytical skills, and a client-focused approach to leadership and service delivery.
Bernard Herbert CA(SA)
Director | HL Technical Solutions
Bernard is the founder of the HL group. He completed his SAICA training contract with EY, whereby he gained extensive experience in auditing and tax, then qualified as a Chartered Accountant in 1997. Thereafter, he joined Coca-Cola Bottling in Mpumalanga before embarking on his very successful journey with HL.
Bernard has a passion for consulting and providing innovative solution to complex problems.
Alessandra Cecchin CA(SA)
Director | Herbert & Liebisch Incorporated
Alessandra Cecchin is a qualified Chartered Accountant (SA) and a Director at Herbert & Liebisch Incorporated, having joined the firm in 2020 and been promoted to partner in 2024.
She began her professional journey at Boake Incorporated, where she completed her articles in 2008 and was subsequently promoted to Audit Manager. She then joined Grant Thornton as an Audit Manager, where she managed a diverse portfolio of listed clients, gaining valuable experience in the regulatory and operational complexities of large-scale audits.
In 2017, Alessandra joined TGS South Africa Inc. as an Audit Manager and was appointed as a Director in 2018. She brought her extensive industry knowledge to HL Inc. in 2020, where she now leads assurance engagements across a broad range of sectors, from medium-sized businesses to listed entities.
Alessandra is passionate about professional development and training. She plays an instrumental role in developing HL Inc.’s training programme for SAICA trainees and brings additional value through her background in lecturing and mentorship.
Carmen Arce
Head of Compliance | HL Compliance Solutions
Carmen Arce joined Herbert and Liebisch Incorporated in March 2016 as an article clerk, where she quickly developed a keen interest in the governance and regulatory side of business operations. As she gained exposure across various departments, her passion for company secretarial and compliance services became clear — ultimately guiding her to lead the establishment and growth of HL Compliance Solutions.
Carmen is known for her meticulous attention to detail, efficient workflow, and unwavering commitment to client service excellence. Under her leadership, HL Compliance Solutions continues to support a growing portfolio of companies, trusts, and other entities in maintaining accurate statutory records and full compliance with South African regulatory requirements.