International Leadership
Development Programme
2013
2013
Partipant’s Profiles
The International Leadership Development Programme is an intensive action learning programme which exposes
high potential executives from across the Wholesale and Retail sector to co-learn in both South Africa and
internationally. With a focus on personal and professional development, participants are heavily immersed in inmarket experiences to accelerate their business insights and learn directly from global business leaders. The ILDP
creates opportunities for participants to function more effectively in team settings, as well as research and make
recommendations on a strategic industry challenge.
Message from the CEO
Partipant’s Profiles
The ILDP Legacy Continues…
Strode's most popular quote “Do not go where the path may lead; go instead where there is no path and leave a trail” is the best way to describe our
journey on the International Leadership Development Programme. The journey of many lessons, challenges and successes which we have
walked with our most important partner; the Wholesale and Retail Sector.
Mr. Joel Dikgole
Chief Executive Officer
The journey that started five years ago has culminated in a prestigious executive development programme for the Sector. The journey has
produced a 108-member Alumni of highly skilled and influential leaders for the Sector who are impacting the future of retail in South Africa. The
Alumni has not only had influence in the boardrooms, but are role models to their peers and ambassadors of the Sector. These men and women
are transforming the face of retail and positioning wholesale and retail as a career of choice.
The journey has left a footprint of the South African Retail Sector globally. The Alumni has proven to our international counterparts that South
Africa is indeed alive with possibilities and that we are ready and able to compete with the best in the world.
We would like to acknowledge our stakeholders who have made this journey a success. These are the companies that have participated on the
Programme: Boxer, Edcon, Ellerines Holdings, Foschini, Jabatha Paper and Stationery, JD Group, Laceys Promotions, Makro SA,
MassDiscounters, Mr Price Group, Clicks Group, Pack 'n Stack, Pick 'n Pay Retailers, Plumblink, Shoprite Group, Smollan Group, Steinhoff,
Truworths, Vaal Sanitaryware, Woolworths, The House of Busby, Spice Emporium, Jadwat Bros T/A Ideals, Metcash Trading Africa, Massmart,
MassBuild, MassWarehouse, La Senza, Accessorize, Wonder Flooring, Auto Pedigree, Blue Falcon T/A Total Darras, Home Concept, Maxshell
117 Investments, North Safety Products, On the Dot, Otto Brothers, Sasol Oil and Tradeport Distribution.
Particularly encouraging is the participation of our small and medium companies in the Programme. We have also noted with interest the
participation of our fuel retailers who were transferred to the W&RSETA in 2011. Three participants from fuel retailers were selected for the
Programme in 2012. We have also noted the steady increase in the participation of new companies which indicates that the ILDP is gaining
momentum and that our companies are realising the benefit of participating on the Programme.
The ILDP journey has been worth walking. We could not have achieved what we have throughout the years without our founding partner; The
Immersion Lab under the capable leadership of Ms. Glynnis Rengger and her team of professional and committed individuals. The ILDP also
owes its legacy to the inaugural Class of 2009.
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Partipant’s Profiles
Most instrumental to this journey has been the ILDP Steering Committee. The Committee comprises of senior officials from the Sector who
provide strategic guidance and input on the Programme design and implementation. We would like to honour Ms. Maria Basson from Makro SA,
Ms. Charlene Keet from the Shoprite Group, Mr. Richard Chauke from the JD Group and Mr. Isaac Motaung from Pick 'n Pay, who have walked
this journey with us since the inception of the Programme.
In 2012, the SETA appointed the following members of the Alumni to serve on the Steering Committee to provide input on the Programme: Mr.
Rajesh Harie, Ms. Ntombi Dludla, Ms. Ankie Kemp and Mr. Vasu Govindasamy.
In the four years that the Programme has been implemented, 21 members of the Alumni have been promoted to senior positions and provided
with opportunities to join the decision makers of our companies in the boardrooms, whilst others have been provided with additional
responsibilities. These developments attest to the impact of the Programme on their individual growth and acceleration to assume these
positions.
The Gordon Institute of Business Science has been part of the journey in the last three year as an accreditation and implementation partner. We
are grateful to Mr. Shaun Rozyn, the Director: CSP and his capable and highly skilled team for their unwavering support and passion to deliver
successful programmes every time.
Sincere appreciation goes to the Board of the W&RSETA for believing on the vision of the ILDP and supporting the Programme since its inception.
The Wholesale and Retail SETA is proud to launch the 5th International Leadership Development Programme for the Wholesale and Retail
Sector.
40 dynamic senior executives will embark on a journey of discovery, learning, sharing and growth. The journey will not only benefit the delegates,
but will culminate in new learnings and ideas for the benefit of the Sector, and ultimately the Country.
The 2013 Programme includes a new destination in our Continent – Africa. For the first time, we have decided to visit Kenya. We are excited about
the opportunity to learn and acquire new knowledge about the supply chain systems and best practice in this country.
We wish the delegates well and we are confident that they will continue on the legacy that has been left by the Alumni and will acquit themselves in
a manner that elevates the W&RSETA, the Wholesale and Retail Sector and our Country.
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Partipant’s Profiles
Following a brief stint in the banking sector in 1996, Thabo joined the Retail Sector and has never looked back. He has been in the
Sector for 16 years and has worked for various reputable large companies such as Edcon and has occupied both middle and senior
management positions in projects, finance and store operations. During the tenure of his career, Thabo has gained vast experience
in both strategic and operational management. He is currently the General Manager for Builders Warehouse Glen Eagles.
Expectations of the ILDP
Thabo Unity Mashego
I anticipate to enhance my knowledge and skills on operational and strategic leadership within the ever-changing world of business.
Branch Manager
Builders Warehouse
The ILDP provides an opportunity to build networking relationships with different leaders from the Retail Sector. The Programme will
hone my management skills to lead a diverse workforce and lead change. Furthermore, I hope to learn and gather market
intelligence and experience of best leadership practice in a different cultural context and become the ambassador of change within
the Sector.
Describing himself as performance-driven and insightful, Girland has over 15 years experience in the fields of supply chain
management, warehouse operations and logistics and retail merchandising. He is currently working for Edcon and I has previously
worked for Woolworths and Nike SA in demand planning and supply chain roles.
Expectations of the ILDP
I hope ILDP will benefit me through the networking opportunities with individuals from local and international retailers and that the
Girland Chibiya
Business Process Manager
Edcon
interaction with leading retailers will provide insight on solutions to common challenges. The Programme will also allow me to share
ideas in my area of specialisation. Furthermore, the Programme will develop my leadership skills to advance my career for executive
responsibilities. I will return with new learnings to implement in our local Retail Sector which will improve my performance and grow
my organisation.
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Partipant’s Profiles
Kemsila joined the Standard Bank's Corporate and Investment Banking Graduate Programme after completing a Business Science
(Finance Honours). A move to Macquarie First South Corporate Finance team culminated 5 years later in her role as a VP in the
Metals and Mining team. A concerted transition from financial services to retail two years ago led to her current role as the Strategic
Projects Manager responsible for delivery of Edcon's e-commerce platform.
Expectations of the ILDP
Kemsila Naicker
The ILDP presents an ideal opportunity to improve my personal competencies as a leader, as well as hone my technical skills in this
Strategic Assignment Manager
Edcon
rapidly evolving, technology-driven Retail Sector.
I look forward to explore the African retail potential, being exposed to local and global industry best practice and walking this journey
with the next generation of retail leaders.
A qualified Chartered Accountant, Thembinkosi has had a great career with Edcon for the past nine years. He was employed as a
management account for three years and recently as the financial manager. Prior to joining Edcon, Thembinkosi worked as a
financial accountant at De Beers Cullinan Mine.
Expectations of the ILDP
Thembinkosi Kosopi
Financial Manager
Edcon
I would like to improve my knowledge of the Retail Sector both locally and abroad and apply the knowledge gained from the
Programme to address some of the challenges we are faced within the Sector.
I also hope to share the knowledge gained from the Programme with my colleagues with the hope to address some of the issues
facing our organisation.
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Partipant’s Profiles
Ian's passion for retail is unmistakable. He left a career in electrical engineering where he worked for 10 years to pursue retail where
he first operated a franchise business with a partner managing two stores. This was followed by a brief tenure at Mweb where he
progressed up to the position of customer support manager. Ian found his home in retail and has been with EPC for the past ten
years.
Expectations of the ILDP
Ian Victor Pietersen
Business Manager
Essential Printer Consumables
The ILDP will help me link our local practices with that of our international counterparts through the strategic leadership coaching we
will received from the Programme. The Programme will further provide a platform to benchmark our business with leading
businesses in the Sector as well as an opportunity to share our own expertise. I look forward to the exposure to international best
practice and implementing the lessons in our Sector.
Teboho describes himself as a very talented young man and has worked for Blue Chip companies like Truworths, Edcon and Clicks,
managing the planning and buying teams. He is currently in the top 30 talented people in the Ellerines Holding Limited and sees
himself running a brand in the Group in the near future. Two of his biggest objectives are to complete his MBA and obtain a pilot
license.
Teboho Chomane
Planning Specialist
Ellerines Furnishers
Expectations of the ILDP
The ILDP provides an opportunity to be exposed to international best practice in the Sector and to learn about the linkages in global
markets. I intent to bring back the learnings to my companies and equip myself for further international dealings.
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Partipant’s Profiles
Mohammed boasts a career and experience in the Retail Sector of over 30 years. He started as a trainee manager at Golden Gate
Supermarket, worked through the ladder and was promoted to the position of general manager in 1986. His incredible wealth of
knowledge and the experience gained as a manager, he was given the added responsibility to manage the group operations,
marketing and sales. One of his career highlights is planning, designing and coordinating the opening of a new store, the Golden
Gate Foodzone in 2004.
Mohomed Naseem Khan
Senior Marketing / HR Manager
Golden Gate Supermarket
Expectations of the ILDP
I have vast experience in wholesale and retail and the ILDP will enhance my leadership skills and allow me to impart the knowledge to
future managers. The Programme will also enlighten me on the latest trends in the Wholesale and Retail Industry. I will also gain
invaluable knowledge and new concepts from my fellow participants. I look forward to gain valuable knowledge from exposure to the
international industry.
After completing her matric at the age of 17, Edith decided to join the world of work before pursuing her studies. She started her working
career in manufacturing and logistics, and considers her move to retail coincidental. Working in a business that specialises in office
products has grown her passion for stationery and desire to compete at her best in order to remain ahead of their competitors in customer
service excellence. Edith's career in retail spans over eight years and she has held various positions within the business which has
prepared her to strengthen the departments she has worked in, develop and mentor her colleagues and move on to greater challenges.
Edith Justine Collopen
Expectations of the ILDP
National Procurement Manager
Jabatha Paper and Stationer
The ILDP would be an opportunity for me to equip myself with the necessary skills sets required of a leader to provide impactful
mentorship to my colleagues on a personal and professional level and strengthening our staff capabilities and business ventures. The
Programme will also present windows of opportunities to the business which will in turn contribute to the economic growth of our Country
by creating more job opportunities.
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Partipant’s Profiles
Bafana Dhlamini is a qualified registered Chartered Accountant and Chief Financial Officer of the Joburg Market. He has more than
15 years of extensive experience in the field of accounting, auditing and corporate governance. He is responsible to provide
Strategic Financial Management within the company and has worked in various roles of accounting.
Expectations of the ILDP
I hope to achieve insight in practical application of leadership and management skills.
Bafana Joseph Dhlamini
Chief Financial Officer
Joburg Market
Thuli is a seasoned HR professional with extensive knowledge of all HR streams. Her career was mostly within the Public Sector
where she gained extensive knowledge in business management through her training. Her passions in HR are employee wellness
and employee development. She subscribes to the principles of good governance and customer service excellence.
Expectations of the ILDP
I have an expectation that the programme will broaden my knowledge on the key issues facing business leaders locally and
internationally. I have done a brief training programme on leadership but this is not sufficient for my future aspirations as a CEO. The
Dumisile Thulisiwe Nkosi
HR Executive
Joburg Market
opportunity to network with professionals outside local government will help me understand other business sectors. The Joburg
Market currently is expected to deliver on the City's food safety strategy and the ILDP will provide access to retail sector
professionals to understand their challenges and share best practices that we can adopt for the Joburg Market. I will ensure that the
benefits of the Programme are shared with other Fresh Produce Markets across the country to improve our processes and
contribute to the country's food safety agenda.
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Partipant’s Profiles
Lawrence is one that is deeply rooted in wholesale, having joined Metro Cash and Carry in 1991. His career has seen him working in
various departments with the company and was promoted to Branch Manager in 1995 and has worked in different branches until
2005. Lawrence briefly worked for the Spar Group for about a year in 2005 and was later offered a career opportunity in the
MassCash Group where he has been working as a Branch Manager to date.
Lawrence Madhlope
Store Manager
MassCash
Expectations of the ILDP
I have worked in both Retail and Wholesale in various departments and have cumulated fair amount of experience in the FMCG
industry. I hope to gain more knowledge and expertise to help me influence the economy of this country and Africa as a whole.
Tshepo Maikhoso started his career with Massmart in 2009 as a graduate trainee and a year later was a trainee manager at the
Market Cash & Carry (Masscash).He was appointed as a sales manager in the same store, a position he occupied for two years.
Tshepo is in the process of relocating to the MassCash head office to take up a position as the Company's Executive Assistant to the
Managing Director.
Expectations of the ILDP
Tshepo Maikhoso
I look forward to expanding my knowledge of the Wholesale and especially the Retail sector from industry captains and normal
Sales Manager
MassCash
employees. I also look forward to the international exposure that the programme offers and how we can get back to South Africa and
improve our own sector. In addition, it will be very interesting to get a perspective from other fellow members on the programme on
how they see the industry and how we address some of the challenges we face if they are indeed similar challenges.
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Partipant’s Profiles
Brian has almost 30 years experience in wholesale and is currently employed as the Accounts Payables Manager for Masscash.
Expectations of the ILDP
I hope to acquire skills from the ILDP which will mould me into high potential leader that will take businesses into the future and shape
the future of organizations.
Brian Pillay
Accounts Payables Manager
MassCash
Naseera started her career at a commercial law firm where she completed her articles and was subsequently admitted as an
attorney. She joined Massbuild as a legal officer and was promoted to the position of legal advisor, only nine months after her
appointment. Naseera is currently the Executive Assistant to the CEO of Massbuild.
Expectations of the ILDP
My current role is unstructured and I have been exposed to all areas within the business and I have spent a considerable amount of
Naseera Ebrahim
Executive Assistant to the CEO
MassBuild
time within stores to understand operational challenges. I have also been exposed to the strategic side of the business. I hope to
achieve a greater understanding of the strategic leadership requirements of a high level executive. The team insights will be valuable
and I envisage learning from people who are more experienced and have been in the Sector longer. I also hope to achieve a greater
understanding of how other markets operate and what best practice can be taken from those environments and implemented within
my environment.
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Partipant’s Profiles
With a career that spans over 17 years, Mogaselvan's passion for the Retail Sector is unmistakable. He started his retail career in
1996 at MassDiscounters as an accounts payable clerk and progressed through the ranks in the finance department where he has
held positions of supervisor, controller and accountant. Mogaselvan has occupied the position of finance manager for the past five
years and is currently involved in the Wal-Mart integration as an FP&A Manager.
Expectations of the ILDP
Mogaselvan Govender
Finance Manager
MassDiscounters
As a leader in the Finance department, I always endeavour to inspire, motivate and develop myself and fellow colleagues. I hope that
the ILDP will provide opportunities to interact with other influential leaders in the global environment, to understand best and
effective practices which will enhance my leadership.
Bridgette has over 18 years in the retail sector; 9 of which she has spent with the MassDiscounters after joining the company as a
Trainee Planner. She was promoted to the position of planner in 2005 and further promotions followed up to her current position as
Planning Manager.
Expectations of the ILDP
I hope to gain insight and to broaden my knowledge of the Wholesale and Retail sector through the Programme; to become a more
Bridgette Spalding
effective and efficient leader. I look forward to the Programme enhancing my leadership skills.
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Partipant’s Profiles
Shabashnee is a versatile, reliable, and efficient IT Projects Manager with over 15 years experience in the Retail Sector of which 8
were within store operations and 7 years in IT. She has also accumulated experience in the areas of vendor management,
recruitment, project management, analytical and business engagement.
Expectations of the ILDP
The ILDP is an opportunity for exposure to best practise, to learn and leverage on the experiences from other organisations, locally
Shabashnee Naidoo
IT Projects Manager
MassDiscounters
and internationally, through networking. The Programme will also provide an opportunity to develop skills to enable change and
manage my team efficiently which will in turn improve the efficiency of our service delivery. I will return from the Programme with a
greater understanding of my strengths and weaknesses and how they can be leveraged to empower my team to achieve greater
Thamanthee's career is firmly rooted in retail with over 17 years working at Makro. She has filled various positions in management
including in food, general merchandising, sales, inventory and receiving Manager throughout the Country. Thamanthee assumed
her current role of Executive Liquor Manager in 2006.
Expectations of the ILDP
Given the opportunity to participate on the ILDP, I believe the exposure gained would afford me the opportunity to gain invaluable
Thamanthee Moodley Vereen
insight by not only interacting with industry leaders, but also by gaining business acumen into best practises, through collaboration
Executive Manager: Makro Liquors
Makro
with my industry counter parts and through international exposure. These teachings will allow me to develop new skills and be an
asset to my company. The knowledge from the Programme will hone my leadership skills which I can apply in my current portfolio.
Utilising these skills will allow me to develop and mentor aspiring future leaders, and assist them along their journey within the retail
industry.
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Partipant’s Profiles
Ismail began his career in Information Technology and completed articles with an international Audit Firm and later worked for a
Government parastatal as a portfolio manager for IT and operational audit. He is also experienced in enterprise risk management
and has acted as head of IT security. Ismail currently owns a wholesale business in the FMCG industry.
Expectations of the ILDP
I would like to achieve a wider knowledge of the Wholesale and Retail Sector both locally and internationally. The Programme will
Ismail Kajee
provide new skills and experience which I would like to implement back in my business and possibly reposition my strategic
Senior Manager
MA Powertrade
objectives. I believe that I will gain invaluable knowledge from the interactions during the Programme and I am also prepared to share
my experiences with them.
Shan Romon heads up operations in Melbro Logistics Services, a division of Melbro Wholesale (Pty) Ltd, which he joined in 1992
and has held various positions since. His work experience includes supply chain management, shipping, inventory optimisation,
merchandise management, transportation management and customer service. The company is commonly known for its chain of
retail stores called The Crazy Stores for which his division provides in-house warehousing and distribution services. Shan is
passionate about continuous improvement and enjoys finding new, innovative ways of doing things.
Shan Dee Romon
Divisional Operations Director
Melbro Wholesale (Pty) Ltd
Expectations of the ILDP
I hope to gain fresh perspective on common business challenges faced by our industry and to do so by journeying and networking
with the other delegates on the Programme. I look forward to learning from and sharing with my co-delegates and being challenged
to rethink conventional ways of doing business.
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Partipant’s Profiles
Mel started her career in the rag trade as a trim coordinator for a leading work wear manufacturer and worked her way through the
ranks up to the position of senior buyer. She then joined North Safety Products as a buyer and has progressed up to her present
position as the Purchasing Manager where she manages a team that is responsible for the purchasing of stock for 12 branches
locally, an export division, seven on-site stores and branches in Zambia and Mozambique.
Expectations of the ILDP
Hugenthemaliga (Mel) Naidoo
I hope to learn and gain more knowledge and experience from fellow participants who come from diverse companies. I look forward
Purchasing Manager
North Safety Products
to gain insight from the exposure from local and global best practice on business processes, particularly supply chain which is my
area of expertise. The Programme presents an opportunity for me to impart the learnings to enhance the supply chain processes
within my organisation.
Hardy has enjoyed a long and rewarding career with Pick 'n Pay which started in 1998 when he joined the company as a trainee
manager. In 2005, he was promoted to store manager and senior store manager three years later. His fondest highlight is being the
Pick 'n Pay's delegate at the international consumer goods forum in Shanghai , China in 2009. Hardy was promoted to line regional
manager in 2010 where he is currently responsible for emerging market stores in the Gauteng region as well as coordinating
industrial relations issues.
Hardy Shasha Sitshange
Regional Manager
Pick ‘n Pay
Expectations of the ILDP
I believe that the ILDP will expose me to new international and domestic leadership trends, and expand my knowledge through
networking and mentoring.
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Partipant’s Profiles
Abdur-Raheem has been employed within Pick 'n Pay since 2002 and started as a shelf packer. His hard work, determination,
commitment and passion for retail saw him move up the ranks and landed him a promotion to a managerial position in 2006. AbdurRaheem is currently the Store Manager of the new Tokai store where he manages a staff complement of 390 employees.
Expectations of the ILDP
I hope to accelerate my business insights in the retail sector by working as a team with other experienced executives from our
Abdur-Raheem Hoosen
Store Manager
Pick ‘n Pay
competitors. I look forward to the interactions with global business leaders which will provide insight on international best practice as
well as the modules at the Gordon Institute of Business Science.
I am particularly excited about the journey ahead and the experiences which I will impart on my organisation and contribute towards
the growth of our Country.
Pick 'n Pay's KZN Regional Manager, Xolani Mazibuko has been with the company for over 14 years and his career is one that is
considered a success story. Xolani started at Pick 'n Pay in 1999 as a security officer and through his hard work and dedication was
promoted to the position of shift leader in 2000. He joined the company's line management in 2001 as a receiving manager and has
held several positions including perishables manager, floor manager, deli coordinator and acting store manager. Xolani also has an
entrepreneurial streak in him and in 2007 he joined the Pick 'n Pay Academy and opened his own store in 2009 which he later sold to
Boxer Superstores. He returned to the company to fulfil various roles before his appointment to his current role in 2012.
Xolani Mazibuko
Regional Manager
Pick ‘n Pay
Expectations of the ILDP
I hope to improve my knowledge on the following areas: strategic planning, marketing, finance and accounting, creative, critical and
innovative thinking, logistics and supply chain management. The ILDP will also improve my leadership and communication skills.
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Partipant’s Profiles
Lesego embarked on his career in 1999 at the former Pretoria Technikon where he worked as an HR assistant. He joined the Edcon
Group in 2001 at the Group's Jet store as a casual worker. In 2003, he was appointed as a trainee manager at Pick 'n Pay and was
promoted to the position of assistant store manager three years later. Lesego was promoted to Store Manager in 2008, a position he
currently holds.
Lesego Ofentse Danke
Store Manager
Pick ‘n Pay
Expectations of the ILDP
The ILDP will reshape and challenge my thinking of being a retailer in this 21st century. I hope that the Programme will allow me to
broaden my insights on the current and future international retail practices. I look forward to sharpen my strategic leadership skills.
Once a retailer, always a retailer! Kingsley's career has revolved around various sectors; however it is evident that his passion is
firmly rooted in retail. Following brief stints at Standard Bank, Pick 'n Pay, Shell SA and Spar; he found his way back home when he
rejoined Pick 'n Pay in 2003 as a franchise regional manager. He was subsequently promoted to the position of buyer, then regional
manager where he worked until 2009. Kingsley opened his own Pick 'n Pay franchise store in Giyani and owns share in the Pick 'n
Pay Protea North store. He is currently in the process of establishing his own retail brand called Quik Food in partnership with his wife
Kingsley Masankho Juma
which will be launched in July.
Director
Pick ‘n Pay Family Store
Expectations of the ILDP
I expect to improve on my leadership ability, to expand my entrepreneurial skills and share experiences. I look forward to share ideas
through interactions with fellow participants and industry experts which will help me in my pursuit of excellence and for the benefit of
enterprise development within the Retail Sector.
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Partipant’s Profiles
Having joined Rand Outfitters over 11 years ago, Riad has worked his way through the ranks. He has worked in various operations of
the business including the sales floor up to his current position as the Managing Director of the Company.
Expectations of the ILDP
I hope to gain exposure into best practice in retail in order to take Rand Outfitters to the next level of exceptional performance.
Riad Laher
Managing Director
Rand Outfitters
Dhesagen has had seven years in the Retail industry working for Pick 'n Pay under their trainee manager programme. He was a store
manager for three years before a career move that took him to the Banking industry, where he spent two years working in insurance
and investments. Dhesagen later joined a recruitment agency before returning to the Retail Industry at the Smollan Group where he
is responsible for internal recruitment.
Expectations of the ILDP
Dhesagen Alvin Pillay
Being a part of such a great venture as the ILDP will create opportunities for me to network with people from the same industry. I will
Recruitment Manager
SmollanGroup
be exposed to best practice from other companies both locally and abroad. The Programme presents an opportunity to bring new
concepts and ideas to my business. I hope to improve my knowledge and position within the environment in which I operate.
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Partipant’s Profiles
Matthew started his career in retail at the age of 19 and worked as a trainee manager for the Pick 'n Pay Hypermarket. He joined The
Smollan Group in 2005 and was identified as part of the company's key talent in its succession planning. Matthew was promoted to the
position of regional manager where he was tasked with starting up operations of the business in Botswana. This remains his key highlight
as the operation was The Smollan Group's first venture into Africa. He was appointed to the position of divisional manager for Africa and in
2011 moved back to South Africa to take on a challenge of managing the operations of The Smollan Group’s Pioneer Foods division.
Matthew Cherian
Divisional Manager
SmollanGroup
Expectations of the ILDP
I am grateful for the opportunity to be part of the prestigious ILDP and believe that the Programme will enhance my leadership and
management skills which will prepare me for the next level of leadership within my organisation. I hope to create new networks through
interacting with my peers from the Sector and draw from their expertise to equip myself to respond to the highly volatile and globalised
markets. I look forward to sharing the learnings from the Programme with my team.
Antoneta has been with the Smollan Group for the past eight years where she started her career within the Engen Field Marketing
division as a Convenience Marketing Analyst. She was promoted to the position of Inland Divisional Manager in 2010 where she
managed a team of 14 managers in charge of over 300 Engen convenience stores. Before joining the Smollan Group, Antoneta
worked in the brewing industry for eight years where she held various sales and distribution management positions.
Expectations of the ILDP
Antoneta Mativavarira Tiribabi
Divisional Manager
SmollanGroup
The ILDP is a once in a lifetime opportunity to network with other professionals from the industry and be exposed to both local and
international industry best practice. I hope to come out a better leader with skills to take this industry to a whole new level and insights
that will enable me to contribute towards making the retail industry a world class player. I hope to come out of the program as a better
strategist, leader and with greater insights into world class retail practices for the benefit of my team and my company.
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Partipant’s Profiles
Eureka started her working career 20 years ago as an IT specialist and has worked across technologies in various industries
including financial and recently, retail. She has been involved in the IT strategy to support retail initiatives at The Foschini Group in
the last 7 years. In her current role as Senior Store Systems Departmental Manager, Eureka is responsible for the systems in the
stores environment and the strategic impact on customer engagement. The role includes, but is not limited to, point of sale
application and related systems, processes and data for over 2000 stores.
Eureka Sewchurran
Senior Department Manager:
Store Systems
The Foschini Group
Expectations of the ILDP
Retail in South Africa is an exciting yet challenging industry and as we expand into the rest of Africa we face, amongst others,
competition from global giants and challenges from under-developed infrastructure. I hope that through the exposure and networking
from the ILDP I will be better equipped to look beyond the obvious and influence my organisation as well as the local industry with
world class thinking on how to deal with these challenges thereby contributing to the growth of our economy.
With over 15 years in the retail industry, Prashan has accumulated a wealth of knowledge and experience in the Sector. Prashan has
been working for Truworths for the past 10 years and is responsible for 54 stores and manages a team of seven area managers.
Expectations of the ILDP
I hope to achieve a broader perspective of the wholesale and retail industry both in South Africa and internationally. I would like to
develop my leadership skills and my competencies as an individual. The Programme will assist me to align myself to the national and
Prashan Maharaj
Regional Manager: Operations
Truworths
international best practice in the wholesale and retail sector. Furthermore, the Programme will present opportunities to network with
individuals from different organisations which will be beneficial for my career and personally.
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Partipant’s Profiles
Zamira completed her B Comm. (Accounting) in 1998 and joined PKF (Newlands) Inc. as a trainee accountant where she worked for
three years. She subsequently qualified as a Chartered Accountant and has worked as an audit manager and was appointed to the
position of Director of the audit department in 2003. Zamira left the field of external auditing to pursue internal auditing and joined
Truworths as the Head of Internal Audit; a position she has occupied since 2008.
Expectations of the ILDP
Zamira Mowzer
Internal Auditing Manager
Truworths
The ILDP presents an opportunity for personal and professional development. I believe in the saying that “Life isn't about finding
yourself. Life is about creating yourself.” This Programme seems to fit into the philosophy of “creating” one's self and I am excited to
be part of this journey.
Adbur-Rahman is proud of his 15-years work experience which was gained in areas of business management, marketing, sales,
retail, wholesale, manufacturing, warehousing, logistics and distribution. His experience has allowed him the opportunity to also
manage the overall profitability of the brands and the Company as a whole. Abdur-Rahman attributes his experience from working
primarily at large multinational FMCG companies such as Tiger Brands and Unilever.
Expectations of the ILDP
My main expectation from the ILDP is to be moulded into a highly effective and exceptional leader. I would like to complete the
Abdur-Rahman Gangat
Sales Manager: Southern Africa
Trade Kings
Programme with an elevated level of self-confidence, wisdom, motivational impact and delivery skills. Most importantly I would like to
gain and develop my executive international experience and exposure which would prepare me for future prospects of working in
and managing international business and markets.
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Partipant’s Profiles
Wasfie started work with Toys R Us in 1996 as an administration clerk and was promoted to assistant then branch management
positions. He successfully managed the flagship store for five years before being promoted to area manager for the highest turnover
region in Gauteng and was recently promoted to divisional manager overseeing the Eastern and Western Cape regions.
Expectations of the ILDP
The ILDP will provide me with the necessary tools to be more effective and efficient in my current role as well as part of the
Wasfie Adams
development process which will fill the necessary skills gap for my future career advancement.
Divisional Manager
Toys RUS
Noël prides himself as a true retailer with a career that started over 22 years ago when he joined Makro as a front end controller. He
worked at Makro until 2004, at which point he was a goods receiving manager. Noël was promoted to his current position of Regional
Manager of Ultra Liquors in the Western Cape in 2008. He has completed programmes and notably, a three-year Retail Management
Diploma.
Expectations of the ILDP
Noël John Johannes
Area Manager
Ultra Liquors
Upon successful completion of this programme, I hope to apply the learnings and skills back into my company by contributing
meaningfully towards the targets and objectives. I intend to share the new knowledge with my superiors, colleagues and more
importantly my team. The ILDP will also expose me to best business practice in local and international markets which will not only
benefit me individually, but also my company. I believe my participation will demonstrate the opportunities that are available in and
elevate the Sector.
Page 21
Partipant’s Profiles
Evangelos has spent 20 years in formal retailing, having worked across the business in clothing and general merchandise as well as
the Foods sectors. He has held several national portfolios which encompassed areas such as sales, service, communication and
training. Under his management, the following business initiatives have been implemented: gift card, Stores Learning Academy and
service renewal projects. He has also managed the local South African Franchise division of Woolworths.
Expectations of the ILDP
Evangelos Maria Morris
The ILDP presents an opportunity for me to develop my critical thinking and analytical skills which will assist me in effective
General Manager: Retail
Woolworths
interactions at a senior management and executive level. It will also drive decision making and strategic leadership of critical
projects. The focus on developing and coaching teams to deliver within a high performance environment will assist me within my
current work in Africa and also build the competencies to drive my career plan.
Zongamele started his career in IT at IBM. He joined Dimension Data as proactive network engineer in 2004 and was deployed as its
first onsite Network Engineer and Manager for BP Angola. In 2009, he was part of the team of top Senior Network Engineers in the
country to build and support the network for FIFA. Following a stint at CSC as Consultant Network Engineer / Architect, he joined
Woolworths in 2011 as Head of Voice and Data where he's responsible for the voice and network strategy, strategic vendor
relationship management, and all network and voice projects and operations.
Zongamele Jacobs
Head of Voice and Data
Woolworths
Expectations of the ILDP
I hope to learn and share my retail insights and experiences with fellow candidates from diverse backgrounds and gain an in-depth
understanding of the market with its impact in local and global economy. More importantly, I hope the ILDP will be a catalyst for my
personal growth and leadership development skills to add significant value in Woolworths and in the advancement of the Retail
Sector. I look forward to networking with passionate and highly motivated like-minded colleagues from various retailers as we strive
to strategically align retailers with modern trends and keep abreast of other markets.
Page 22
Partipant’s Profiles
Anne has over 20 years of business entrepreneurial experience in various retails sectors. Her work experience varies from sale and
marketing, HR, managing teams, working with budgets, training and development and business strategy, amongst others. She is
currently a Woolworths Franchisee which she has been successfully running for the past eight years, having achieved many awards
during this period including Most Promising Black Female Franchisee in South Africa from the Franchise Association of South Africa
(FASA).
Anne Matlala
Store Manager
Woolworths
Sunset Beach Pty Ltd
Expectations of the ILDP
The ILDP presents an opportunity to rate our local retail industry against international standards, how the Sector has grown post1994 and areas of improvement. It will be an eye-opening experience to learn how seasoned retailers have made retail a career and
not just a job, and how we can position retail as a lucrative career. I look forward to learn from internal best practice on chain
management, technologies and general operations. Most importantly, the Programme will contribute to my personal growth through
interaction with the best minds in the business locally and internationally.
Page 23
Partipant’s Profiles
Page 24
Wholesale and Retail SETA
Riverside Office Park, Hennops House
1303 Heuwel Avenue, Cnr Heuwel and
Lenchen South Avenues
Centurion, Pretoria, South Africa
Tel: +27 12 622 9500
Call Centre: +27 86 027 0027
Website: www.wrseta.org.za