Full Name Arend du Preez. Current position Managing director. Born Bloemfontein. Educated University of Pretoria and University of South Africa. Most influential person in shaping your career Terry Mohan – chairman Routledges – Modise. Greatest challenge that SA faces Overcoming the prevailing negativity. We need to be aware of our downfalls, but to stay focused on the opportunities available in SA. Greatest challenge that you face as a corporate leader Understanding the complexities of people and having courage to act with integrity on difficult decisions. Allowing for flexibility in one’s business strategy in order to adapt to market demands Greatest challenge that faces the freight and forwarding industry The shortage of skilled staff. There is no drive to up-skill . People lack the confidence to label themselves as the best. Business icon you most admire Sir Richard Branson How did you get involved in the freight forwarding and logistics industry As one of the SAA legal advisers I was responsible for mergers, acquisitions and indirect taxes. My interactions with customs and the SAA logistics providers introduced me to the industry. Do you find there are synergies between law and the freight industry? Definitely. Both are service industries and focus on people. Most meaningful quote “Excellence is not a skill. It is an attitude." Ralph Marston Career highlight to date Taking over the leadership of Kintetsu World Express. Being part of a team that is working to build up the business to its full potential. What inspires you Turning an opportunity into a business reality. Watching people develop to their full potential under good leadership guidance. Current reading Our Iceberg is melting by John Kotter Favourite holiday destination Trafalgar at the South Coast. Outside interests Golf and cricket
