Praise for SAPMA’s sterling stalwart

Deryck Spence retired as executive director of the SA Paint Manufacturing Association (SAPMA) at the association’s annual general meeting on May 12 after having led SAPMA for 11 important years in its 82-year existence.

Praise for Deryck’s role in the growth of SAPMA has been expressed by both the SAPMA chairman and vice-chairman.

Aggie Argyrou, chairman, says: “Deryck has not only revived an association that was floundering, but also rejuvenated and given the entire coatings industry of South Africa a voice and economic recognition. He used all his vast corporate experience of dealing with officialdom at top level to SAPMA’s advantage and has, in true terrierfashion, never allowed any obstacle to deter him from fighting for the rights of the local coatings sector.

“He raised membership significantly but, even more importantly, brought into the fold the smaller players who collectively now also have unified strength as members of SAPMA.

“We cannot thank him enough for his perseverance and passion, which outclass the performance of people half his age. Enjoy your retirement, Deryck, and thank you for grooming your successor and still being there to help if SAPMA needs you.”

Sanjeev Bhatt, vice-chairman, states: “Deryck has steered SAPMA to heights where it is now a formidable body not only in South Africa, but globally among equivalent associations in UK, Australia and Canada for example, and as a result SAPMA is now a respected member of the World Coatings Council. “His passion for SAPMA was infectious and his never-give-up attitude is one we all have to learn and emulate.

An excellent orator and accomplished author, his great sense of humour always helped to break the ice at the most formal of meetings.

“Despite a long corporate career during his years at Burmah Castrol, Deryck nevertheless understood the importance of small- and mediumsized manufacturers and the value these would add to by bringing them on board.

Today, SAPMA represents over 85% of paint manufacturers and associate industries in the country.

“Deryck is leaving a legacy of success and we are fortunate that he will still be on board as non-executive director to guide all of us through difficult and challenging times.”

An icon of the industry - Deryck Spence is retiring as Executive director of SAPMA.