Out of Africa: My Journey from Finance to Foresight

Reflecting on my journey, I'm reminded of the incredible experiences and opportunities that have shaped my career. From starting in finance to working in the vibrant and dynamic supply chain and food safety world, my path has been anything but linear. Yet, it's been a journey that has brought me to a place where I can genuinely 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. Although my career began with numbers and spreadsheets, I soon realized my true passion lay elsewhere. 

As I mentioned in a recent podcast, I don't have a technical background. However, I have intriguing technical knowledge, which I've acquired over the years. 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

Working with African farmers is one of the most rewarding aspects of my career. The agricultural sector in Africa is filled with potential, but it also presents challenges. Farmers want to farm. That's what they were born for. 

My work has mainly focused on helping them navigate the complexities of compliance and auditing. It's about more than just meeting standards—helping them realise opportunities, from expanding their markets to improving their operations.

Embracing Opportunities and Growth

Africa is rising, and I'm incredibly excited about the opportunities ahead. The growth potential is immense, particularly in adopting new technologies that streamline operations and enhance efficiency. 

Building Personal Relationships

I have stressed the importance of building strong, personal client relationships throughout my career. 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 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 will serve our continent and contribute globally. 

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 you need help navigating the complexities of compliance, optimising your operations, or 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!