From wannabe fireman to Henley Head of Sales ... and the many steps in between

I'm the youngest of three siblings, in Afrikaans they call me a laat lammetjie. I'm the baby of the family and the favourite child, if I do say so myself.

I've lived in 35 different houses in my lifetime. Growing up, my entrepreneurial parents moved us frequently, sometimes packing up everything on a whim. That nomadic lifestyle shaped my agility, curiosity, and love for new experiences, traits that naturally led me to the travel industry. My wife and I have been in the same house for the past eight years and that’s the longest I’ve ever stayed in one place.

I once dreamed of becoming a fireman until I realised it was too dangerous. The family joke was that I’d go into politics, get rich, retire with a golden handshake, and become an author. While I never pursued politics or achieved great wealth yet, I did write a book on leadership so at least I ticked one goal off the list.

I spent three years living in Japan in my early twenties. After returning to South Africa, I moved into the travel industry and learning & development, leading a department in a major travel group before launching my own business in facilitation and executive coaching. I returned to the corporate world to lead a division at a corporate travel business, but the independent bug bit again in 2021, leading me to start another management consultancy. That same year, I joined Henley Business School as an adjunct faculty member, which eventually led to my current role as Head of Sales.

For years, I’d driven past the campus, thinking, ‘One day, I’ll be there’. When I joined as an adjunct lecturer, I saw first-hand what made Henley unique was the care, support, and real change it creates for people. So, when the chance to join full-time aligned with my passion for development and sales, it was an easy decision. Challenges exist, but our role in sales is to drive growth, open doors, and create opportunities that shape futures across Africa.

Henley always felt prestigious, a place with real gravitas. When I started my consultancy in 2021, I knew I’d keep the executive coaching side running, but I always said I’d only join a brand that truly aligned with my values. Having worked with many companies, I’ve often been sceptical when they claim “people” as a core value, as few truly live it. But Henley does. It has the global presence, quality, and impact that makes me proud to represent it, knowing the work we do genuinely transforms lives.

I’ve always looked up to my grandfather, who was the head of our family. His passing left a lasting impression on me. He was Scottish, very structured, and had a unique sense of humour. My parents have always embraced challenges and opportunities, which I’ve learned from. My brother and sister, being older, also shaped me by their experiences. But the biggest influence in my life is my wife. We’ve been together for 19 years, and though our personalities are very different, we challenge and support each other through both tough times and successes.

Don’t discount small experiences or learnings, they often lead to bigger things. If I could go back, I’d tell myself to develop discipline earlier. While I’ve realised its importance over time, I’m not claiming to be the most disciplined person, but I’ve learned when it’s crucial to get things done. I’d also advise being more aware of opportunities, even the small or challenging ones. Looking back over the last 25 years, seemingly insignificant moments and steps built upon each other, leading me to where I am today.

I bet you didn’t know…

1. After high school, I studied history. I am very passionate about history.
2. I spent two years at Bible college, unexpected, right?
3. I’m convinced I make the best ramen. Seriously, it’s a game-changer – my wife tells me so.