You were named «CEO of the Year» at the Woman of Stature Awards 2026. What do you think set you apart in the eyes of the jury?
I would say it was my resilience as an entrepreneur. I’ve had to pivot and change direction many times throughout my journey. During COVID, executive search in South Africa came to a halt, but I was able to keep our business afloat by taking on other work and adapting to what the market needed. We are very forward-thinking, and I have a real passion for what I do. I believe that combination of resilience, adaptability, innovation, and passion is what set me apart.
What does this recognition mean to you personally and professionally?
Personally, this recognition is incredibly meaningful because it affirms the resilience, hard work, and determination it has taken to build and sustain a business through both opportunities and challenges. Professionally, it is a proud moment because it reflects not only my leadership, but also the strength of the business we have built, our forward-thinking approach, and the passion that drives everything we do. It is a reminder that perseverance and adaptability truly matter, and that makes the award very special to me.
From your perspective, what are the key considerations for companies conducting C-level searches in South Africa?
From my perspective, one of the key considerations in C-level searches in South Africa is finding leaders who are not only technically strong, but also adaptable, resilient, and able to lead through uncertainty. Organisations also need to be mindful of their transformational agenda and the importance of building leadership teams that better reflect the diversity of South Africa. This includes creating more opportunities for women to move into senior leadership roles. Cultural fit remains critical, as does finding executives who align with the company’s values, strategic direction, and long-term goals. Ultimately, companies should be looking for leaders who are forward-thinking, commercially astute, and capable of driving sustainable growth in a complex and evolving environment.
What makes the South African leadership market unique in the broader global context?
South African leaders stand out for their resilience, adaptability, and ability to lead through complexity. They operate in a market shaped by transformation, diversity, infrastructure challenges, and constant change, which produces executives who are both agile and forward-thinking. That combination makes the local leadership market especially distinctive on a global stage.
What advice would you give to international executives considering a leadership role in South Africa?
My advice would be to come in with an open mind, cultural awareness, and a willingness to adapt. South Africa offers incredible opportunity, but it is also a market shaped by complexity, diversity, and infrastructure challenges. Success here requires resilience, agility, and a genuine understanding of the local context.