New Portnet chief will be based in Durban

New Portnet chief will be based in Durban

TAU MORWE, until recently head of Transnet's Apron Services, will become Portnet's first divisionalised chief executive officer from May 1, in the role of CEO Port Operations. In a break from existing practice Morwe is to be based at the coalface in Durban.
The company announced last year that it was to split into separate landlord authority and operation divisions, although no appointments were immediately made. This followed the earlier-than-expected departure of managing director Rob Childs, who said he had completed his job of bringing Portnet towards divisionalisation and eventual privatisation.
Mafika Mkwanazi, Transnet deputy managing director, said the appointment of Morwe had been made with the aim of taking Portnet forward towards meaningful transformation as a successful commercial enterprise.
"Mr Morwe is the ideal candidate to develop more efficient port operations capable of promoting further economic development of the country."
Morwe holds a BA in Economics and Social Psychology from Howard University in Washington DC and has been working towards a Masters in Operations at UCT, in addition to his work experience in the areas of information technology and manufacturing.
"One of my first tasks will be to look at ways of quantitatively and qualitatively improving all aspects of port operations," he promised.
Morwe said that as this endeavour required a substantial investment he intended lobbying the private sector to assist Portnet in speeding up improvements in the operations of the ports. He acknowledged that the process of port privatisation would have to take priority.
"I aim to add value to the ongoing process of privatisation of Portnet. The government, Transnet as well as other stakeholders have started creating an enabling environment for the operation of our ports by developing appropriate South African ports policy and legislation."
Morwe said he recognised the need to bridge the gap between government policy makers and operational executives, particularly in the areas of competitiveness and structural adjustment. In this respect he will assist his fellow managers with improving and sustaining organisational effectiveness as well as creating value for all stakeholders.
"Lastly, I would like to ensure that Portnet is restructured within the confines of the current policy of government with regard to the privatisation of state-owned enterprises."

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