Age 29
Where are you based at the moment (who do you work for)?
South African Revenue Services Head Office, Pretoria, Gauteng.
In what year did you complete your honours degree?
I completed my BSc Honours in 2017.
What path did you follow before ending up with your current company?
Post-graduation I was interviewed by construction firms. Between the interviews, I was contacted by the SARS recruitment team for an opportunity with the Facilities Team, an opportunity I then accepted after careful consideration and consultation (Prof John Smallwood).
What is your current position and what does the role entail?
I am a Regional Facilities Manager on hybrid bases as I am currently tasked with 2 provinces (EC and KZN). My roles entail maintenance management of SARS Offices, Warehouses, Ports of entry infrastructure (airport, harbour, and borders) and human resources assigned to these activities. Also just completed my extended term as part of SARS first ever Junior board that comprised of 15 individuals out of 1 500 youth submissions.
What advice would you give a current construction management student?
Do a ‘deep dive’ into opportunities available via people who hold your degree as opposed to focusing on the obvious outcome which is being a Construction or Construction Project Manager. The built environment is broad with many interesting opportunities that need a careful curated career path.
What was your favourite module?
At undergraduate level it was KBS (Structures) taught by Katherina Crafford, and at honours level it was KBM (Construction Management) taught by John, who made it even more interesting as during ‘Fees Must Fall’ we would have classes off campus and post lecture browse through photographs of places John had visited to explore local architecture, amongst others.
Who was your favourite lecturer?
Chris Allen, as his consultation during my honour’s year was unlimited and resourceful.
What are your plans for the next 5 to 10 years?
Transition from the public sector to the private sector (corporate) and completion of my master’s degree. Then, to serve on a state board to help contribute shaping the public sector for a better tomorrow.
13 March 2024