Out of Africa: My Journey from Finance to Foresight

Written by Anje van Wyk

As I reflect on my journey, I’m reminded of the incredible experiences and opportunities that have shaped my career. From starting in finance to now working in the vibrant and dynamic world of supply chain and food safety, my path has been anything but linear. Yet, it’s been a journey that has brought me to a place where I can truly make a difference—both here in South Africa and across the continent.

From Finance to Food Industry

Many of you may remember me from my early days in finance. My career began with numbers and spreadsheets, but it wasn’t long before I realised that my true passion lay elsewhere. 

As I mentioned in a recent podcast, I don't have the technical background. The technical knowledge that I've got is what I've learned over the years, and it's very interesting and intriguing. This curiosity led me to the food industry, where I’ve spent the last 17 years working in various roles—from financial administration to operations and now as Scheme Manager at Supply Chain Insights (SCI).

Navigating Challenges in African Agriculture

One of the most rewarding aspects of my career has been working with African farmers. The agricultural sector in Africa is filled with potential, but it also comes with its own set of challenges. Farmers just want to farm, right? That's what they're born for. 

Helping them navigate the complexities of compliance and auditing has been a major focus of my work. It’s about more than just meeting standards—it’s about helping them realise the opportunities that come with doing so, from expanding their markets to improving their overall operations.

Embracing Opportunities and Growth

Africa is a continent on the rise, and I’m incredibly excited about the opportunities that lie ahead. The potential for growth is immense, particularly in adopting new technologies that can streamline operations and enhance efficiency. 

Building Personal Relationships

Throughout my career, one thing has remained constant—the importance of building strong, personal relationships with clients. I believe that these relationships are the foundation of successful business partnerships. 

At SCI, we pride ourselves on being more than just a service provider. We are partners in your success, committed to understanding your needs and delivering solutions that truly make a difference.

Looking Ahead: A Vision for the Future

As I embark on this next chapter with SCI, my vision is clear. I’m passionate about building a team in Africa that not only serves our continent but also contributes on a global scale. 

To my former colleagues and my broader network across South Africa and the continent, I invite you to connect with me and explore how SCI can support your business in achieving its goals. Whether it’s navigating the complexities of compliance, optimising your operations, or simply exploring new opportunities, my team and I are here to help.

Thank you for your continued support, and I look forward to the exciting journey ahead!