At the helm of SAACI

At the helm of SAACI

Meet Glenton de Kock, the new chief executive officer of the Southern African Association for the Conference Industry (SAACI).

Professionally, what makes you tick?

Promoting and making a positive contribution to my community and society in general. We must ensure sustainable economic growth that starts in our neighbourhood, with a keen focus on our environment while we do it. I subscribe to a servant leadership model that drives me to look at ways at how best to take care of the environment, and how best to assist others in their personal or career growth.

This I have done from early in my life and career when I realised that people and processes are intrinsically linked in achieving goals or objectives. Hence my fascination with all things of a strategic nature. It drives my curiosity to want to know more about society, business and how forward-thinking can stimulate sustainable business growth. But, just as important, is the merging of strategic direction and practical application to advance growth and prosperity that’s beneficial for all.

For example, our industry can transform our society on many levels. This can be at an economic or environmental level through the delivery of conferences, meetings or events. Our impact can change the face of our society through a collaborative effort by all that is driven by society and business being good corporate citizens.

What makes me tick even more; to achieve that in my current and past roles as a citizen and a servant leader.

It seems that your interest in strategic management leans towards the tourism industry. Please elaborate.

Indeed. Before joining SAACI, I was chief executive officer of Nelson Mandela Bay Tourism. Here I was responsible for strategic leadership in delivering the destination marketing strategy through the execution of commercial business strategies. I had to ensure that the strategic plan and business of the organisation were constantly monitored and complied with the Municipal Finance Management Act and other financial requirements. This included the overall management of risk and legal matters.

A multi-stakeholder approach ensured that we were able to work towards the destination’s strategy.

Prior to that, I was project manager at the Nelson Mandela Bay Business Chamber, where I was responsible for strategic oversight, planning and implementation of multi-stakeholder projects which had a key economic catalytic focus.

At KPMG and Grant Thornton I led the Hospitality, Leisure and Tourism Unit for Africa and South Africa. I have a great passion for tourism.

What is your interest in the business events industry?

I believe there is great scope to increase association meetings and enhance the return on investment for members, their trade shows and business events. This must be underpinned through a transformational agenda that ensures a collaborative effort by all. I look forward to engaging with the SAACI membership, our national strategic partners, as well as the broader hospitality, leisure and tourism community.

South Africa is a great destination with great people. I believe there is much scope for the South African conference industry and we need to strengthen SAACI’s position in this space. I am keen to contribute to the growth and development of the SAACI and business tourism in the coming years.