Freight Personality Series - David Michael Williams

Full name: David Michael Williams Current position: Managing director – Maersk South Africa effective 1 December 2007 Born: 8 November 1964 Educated: King Edward VII High School, Johannesburg; UNISA First job: As a ‘sampler’ on a gold mine How did you get involved in the freight industry? After completing my national service in the navy in Port Elizabeth I joined Safmarine as a booking clerk. Most notable changes in the industry in your time: Consolidation, increased competition to and from South(ern) Africa and e-commerce developments. Most influential person in shaping your career: I’ve been extremely fortunate to have had the support and guidance of a couple of people at crucial times in my career. Best personal achievement: Not fainting during the birth of my two children. Best professional achievement: I hope it is still to come. Greatest challenge that SA faces: It’s a very complex situation – but certainly poverty, inequality and crime. Business icon you most admire: Lou Gerstner (IBM – “Who says elephants can’t dance”) Most meaningful quote: For the purposes of this publication: “I never became a rich man in shipping, but I ate well and met interesting people”. Favourite reading: Biographies and non-fiction (spy novels on holiday) Favourite airline: Emirates Favourite holiday destination: Anywhere where there is a beach, warm water and good food. Your views on Transnet Rail Freight: Having been out of South Africa for just over three years, I cannot really comment. Your views on SA Revenue Service Customs: As above Your views on Zimbabwe: I hope the long journey to recovery starts soon and is supported by the international community. Outside interests: My family; golf; (red) wine – more tasting and drinking than collecting; cooking; David Williams. art and music.