indigo consulting amanda brinkmann comprehensive cv 2013 v 2
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The story of Indigo Consulting & Amanda Brinkmann - my value and values captured within this profile. This document provides a glimpse into what drives me, my purpose, meaning and what I am able, willing and passionate to contribute to make the world a better place.TRANSCRIPT
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Amanda Brinkmann Snapshots from a life-long journey of learning, growth, change, vision, innovation and being part of the
collective, creative consciousness
I am and have always been, fascinated by words and language. These two abilities are after all
what separate human beings from other life forms, in that it confers upon us the ability to take each
single, meaningful element of speech, each word, which is its own conceptual unit of language and
string those together so as to create meaning and some semblance of sense out of our world, our
views, our beliefs and our experiences. We are able to use words and language to make promises,
deliver messages, share information, impart knowledge, describe our inner-most musings and feelings
and to give voice and expression to who we are, what we believe in and how we situate ourselves in
context of others and the ever-expanding universe. It follows, that in defining and describing some of
who I am, what I believe in, what drives me and what sits at my core, words and their meaning
become powerful mnemonics, as they provide descriptions of inner reflections as well as from the
outer world and how it and the people in it, have reflected back to me in the continuing process of
personal mastery and definition of self.
As you read through the story of my career, my life-long learning, the scope of what I have been
exposed to, you will notice that I have so far, had the privilege of having lived a varied, stimulating,
constantly challenging and interesting life and career. A great many of my choices have been
driven by my near insatiable thirst and hunger for knowledge, as you will notice from the Appendix
that describes what I have mastered in respect of subject matter, concepts, methodologies,
knowledge, via active experimentation, on-going study and learning as well as in situ practice over
the past 25 years.
For me, it is however about more than just knowing things. Very often, people know things or facts,
but they do not understand how this knowledge fits into a specific context. So, further than
knowledge, it is about the comprehension of what this knowledge really means and most importantly,
how I can apply it and find practical uses for it.
I now know and have made peace with the fact that I am driven by a true sense of curiosity and how
I am able to see the inter-relatedness of all things and always have been able to. The how and why
were given shape and form, by the results of the Modified Career Path Appreciation [MCPA]. The
outcome of the MCPA, though a one-dimensional measure of part of who I am, has provided
meaning and clarity as to why I have perceived the world in a particular, integrated way and how I
could always „see‟ the future, and more so, a range of possible futures, so clearly and easily and how
I could break it all down to actions in the present which could co-create the future that we would
choose. Inside of my cranium, the world, the universe, the collective consciousness within which we
all exist, looks like a 100 000 piece puzzle, where I am able to immediately situate any issue, problem,
challenge, piece of information and understand its inter-relatedness to all other things. I am most
comfortable and in flow when I work at the highest levels of complexity and am able to instantly
grasp a variety of futures, but have been blessed with the ability to work backwards and to craft
simple, effective solutions, strategies and implementation plans for seemingly very complex problems.
I now understand that seeing such futures with such clarity is very daunting for most people and have
therefore, through personal mastery and introspection, been able to create frameworks and
methodologies through which I engage those around me in mental modelling, in a trusting and safe
environment and guide, facilitate and lead the process of „getting them to‟ these possible futures.
Once they are part of the ideation and ownership, I am now able to move forward much easier and
at a swifter pace. My own frustration is therefore not an issue anymore, as I clearly understand that
seeing 30 years ahead so very clearly, is really rather scary for most people. I now have the tools to
structure my own expectations, to strategise and bring people on board, in a slow, facilitated and
safe manner, to see this future with me. I work with a strong shadow network of like-minded
individuals to make a great many things a reality within the shortest possible time.
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I am most definitely not into short-termism and am comfortable working with five, ten, 15 and 25 year
time horizons. I am not the person who is simply prepared to stick a Band-Aid on a gaping wound. I
comprehend the systemic issues and behaviours that create current future and I am therefore able to
design and drive implementation plans that ensure the co-creation and co-production of a future
that is very different to that which is nearly pre-determined by birth and circumstance.
I am driven by the improvement of the human condition, by what is in the interest of the much
greater good, the collective universal consciousness. I function from the basis of a global
consciousness that is able to find expression within micro-environments, but that form part of this
infinite tessellation of which I can see the constituent parts of.
Other words, phrases or labels and their meanings that have been reflected at me from the world
and people that I have had the privilege of engaging with are: * Visionary * Visionary and servant
Leader * Teacher and mentor * Mother and caregiver * Futurist * Social Engineer * Democratic
Socialist * Pragmatic Idealist * Problem-solver * Innovator * Highly Analytical * Creative * Eccentric *
Maven * Connector* Strategist * Inspiring and energising * Professional * Authentic * Passionate *
Dedicated * Loyal * Change Agent * Systems thinker and designer * Motivator * Undaunted by any
challenge * Positive* Transformational leadership style* Humanist.
I take pride in my ability to tackle every task and project with all of my energy and to really getting to
the bottom of a problem or challenge. I believe in getting my hands dirty, truly understanding the full
scope of a business and its perceived problems, challenges and objectives and then presenting a
range of innovative, practical and integrated solutions and strategies that are goal directed and
measurable.
I have found that the people in every organisation and within their communities are key contributors
to finding, iterating and ideating the solutions to a great many complex problems and challenges. I
communicate well with people across the board and have found that by involving each stakeholder
in the process of finding workable solutions, it is that much easier to achieve results. Organisational
and community buy-in is one of the cornerstones of meeting most objectives. I have learned that I
have the ability to honour the history, the cultural influences, the life-journey and beliefs of all people
that I engage with, but that after this process, am able to reach consensus in respect of our
combined, mutually beneficial outcomes and therefore inspire people to take hands and to work
towards an agreed outcome. I break down silos and barriers, so as to optimise resources, pool them
and generally, use fewer resources to deliver more.
I furthermore believe that the secret is not only in the ability to listen, but more so in the ability to
communicate clearly, succinctly and with intent; and in the process of delegation, to ensure that
each stakeholder fully comprehends and takes ownership of their roles and responsibilities within the
objectives framework. Mentorship, empowerment and an emphasis on the strengths of individuals
within an organisation are all issues that are close to my heart and part of my leadership/
management approach. I lead from the front, as well as pushing my people gently forward from
behind. I have reached the stage in my career and life where what I am engaged in is not about me,
but about what I am able to contribute. I am therefore the author of a great many things, but my
signature remains miniscule, as I would far rather give the credit to those who journey along with me.
Only I need to know that I have been part of systemic, real change – this is what drives me – the deep
love of my country, its people, the African soil and the potential that sits locked up within the hands
and hearts of each and every South African.
I have the ability to spot trends before or as they emerge and to recognise their potential value to an
organisation. Once I have an instinct, I will not rest until I have exhausted all avenues of research to
gain as much knowledge and input as possible and to translate that into pro-active strategies to the
benefit of the business, project or organisation I am involved in or with. I am known for being a lateral
thinker and trailblazer – and am not afraid to take calculated risks in the interest of improving
operational efficiencies and thereby, the bottom line or outcomes.
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I have suddenly realised that it is true that one is good, wherever you find yourself and that because I
have never stopped learning and integrating my knowledge to problem-solve, design adaptive
systems, up-skill and lead my employees, I will more than likely become more and more of a valuable
commodity in the market place. As you will see when reading the story of my career and what I have
mastered, you will notice that I am in the fortunate position to be a generalist specialist, who has
never been confined to just one narrow field of work, study or scope and that this, along with my
systems view of the world, I have come to realise represents a huge competitive advantage for any
company or organisation that makes use of my services. When I commit to a cause, process or
outcome, I commit more than 100% and dedicate myself to delivering all and more than what is
required and expected. That is simply part of my work ethic.
To quote Richard Buckminster Fuller with whom I find a strong connection and resonance with his
work and well as how he sees things: “I am not a genius. I‟m just a tremendous bundle of
experience.”
I am driven by real purpose, meaning, the pursuit of complete freedom and justice for the people of
my country, continent and if I am able to fulfil my life‟s work, I would hope that it could have impact
globally in respect of creating a future that is very different from what is near destiny at present.
The fact that I have been able to determine the scope and boundaries of my work, has meant that I
have had the privilege of working across all three [3] spheres of government, have gained an
understanding of how the whole system works and inter-relates, partnered with a range of officials,
spheres of government, departments, NGO‟s, private sector individuals and companies, research
institutions and academia. I have also had the privilege, through the broad spectrum of projects, of
being very much connected to the people of this province and country, on the ground and on their
home turf. This experience, combined with my entrepreneurial and social bent, as well as deep and
varied private sector experience, help to create a new and mutually understood language and narrative.
The meaning attached to my purpose is related to being aware, more patently than ever, of the
dignity of servitude, that I wake up to serve 5.5 million people in this province, 48 million in this country
and potentially, if I fulfil my life‟s journey and work, this work could positively impact lives in
Sub-Saharan Africa and other developing countries. The over-arching end goal of improvement of
quality of life and building a bright and very different future to what is currently nearly pre-determined
is what guides me.
For now, it is pertinent to note that I have viewed economic and social development as inextricably
linked to the health, wellness and economic growth and developmental outcomes of our country.
These linkages were confirmed by the integration of research, academic reviews, active
experimentation over the past 3 years and the continued iteration and narration of a model, that I
have titled, „ Passport to Wellness‟, which seeks to disrupt the socialisation process and circumstance
into which our children are born and within which their futures are often pre-determined.
Development remains a multi-dimensional process, which requires the re-organisation and
re-orientation of the social and economic systems in their totality – by: * Producing more
necessities/needs [food, shelter, health care etc.] and broadening distribution * Increasing standard
of living and self-esteem * Expanding economic and social choices * Reducing fear of the future.
I would be more than content to be branded a „prophet of doom‟, given the current reality = current
future that I describe within my model. I am however compelled to step up and to use my voice to
offer an alternate, shared vision, which could change this future into a future that we will all be proud
to inhabit.
I embrace the fact that I must be one of the pioneers who are able to see the current future as it is
pre-destined by circumstance and visualise a new and prosperous future and redesign the system so
that we achieve this new and prosperous future, rather than current future. We cannot live in a state
of denialism. We must seize the power of NOW to start the process of turning the cycle of poverty
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around. I am of the strong belief that this power really does reside within the hands of the people of
this beautiful, rainbow nation of ours.
This process involves constantly trying to balance conflicting goals, objectives and interests and
involves the simultaneous pursuit of economic prosperity, environmental quality and social equity,
known as the three dimensions or the Triple bottom line. Through my intense studies into the multiple
layers of sustainability, I have no doubt that it is possible to achieve this balance. The world really has started shifting and we are moving into a new era of sustainability.
On a personal note, I can include that I am obsessed with reading (every magazine title, newspaper
and book that I can lay my hands on), with life-long learning, love interior decorating, love my
children and family, have an extended “family” of friends whom I entertain regularly with
experimental dishes and I change the interior of my home at least twice a year, as the mood takes
me. These are my physical creative outlets and ensure that my life stays in balance.
I have a strong support network and am therefore able to focus my efforts and energy on my career
and work. I am also able to travel/commute, should that be required of me.
“You never change things by fighting the existing reality.
To change something, build a new model that makes the existing model obsolete.” Richard Buckminster Fuller [1895-1983]
“In order to change an existing paradigm you do not struggle to try and change the problematic model.
You create a new model and make the old one obsolete.”
― Richard Buckminster Fuller
“I am enthusiastic over humanity‟s extraordinary and sometimes very timely ingenuity. If you are in a
shipwreck and all the boats are gone, a piano top buoyant enough to keep you afloat that comes along
makes a fortuitous life preserver. But this is not to say that the best way to design a life preserver is in the form
of a piano top. I think that we are clinging to a great many piano tops in accepting yesterday‟s fortuitous
contrivings as constituting the only means for solving a given problem.”
― Richard Buckminster Fuller [2]
“With this faith, we will transform the jangling discord of our nation into a beautiful symphony of
brotherhood, where we will work together, pray together, struggle together to stand up for freedom
together – knowing that we will ALL be free one day. Let freedom REIGN – let us all join hands and sing
– FREE AT LAST”. [ Martin Luther King Jnr – I have a dream speech]
“The things to do are: the things that need doing: that you see need to be done and that no one else
seems to see need to be done. Then you will conceive your own way of doing that which needs to be
done -- that no one else has told you to do or how to do it. This will bring out the real you that often
gets buried inside a character that has acquired a superficial array of behaviours induced or
imposed by others on the individual”.
--- R. Buckminster Fuller
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Amanda BRINKMANN – INDIGO CONSULTING
Curriculum Vitae
ADDRESS: Physical Peace of Heaven, Protea Rd, Klapmuts, 7625
Postal P.O. Box 49, Klapmuts, 7625
TELEPHONE +27 828900663 Mobile
EMAIL ADDRESS [email protected]
DATE OF BIRTH 13 January 1967
ID nr 6701130018085
STATUS Engaged
NATIONALITY South African and African
LANGUAGES English : Speak, read, write : exceptional command
Afrikaans : Speak, read and write : exceptional command
German : Speak [rusty], read and write
Latin : Basic command
Italian and Spanish : Read
EDUCATION: 1984: Matriculated at Sentraal High School, Bloemfontein
1986-1987: B.Iuris: University of the Orange Free State –
uncompleted: married and moved to Cape Town
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1987 to current: Appendix A [Pgs. 20-21]: Life-long
learning, short courses, personal mastery, knowledge
acquisition, practice
2012: Executive Development Programme: University of
Stellenbosch Business School [ Appendix B –Pg 19]
Graduated Cum Laude
With 81% Grade Average. [ Pgs. 17 + 18] – NQF 8 level
Honours/Masters Level mini MBA
2013: Accepted onto Executive MBA programme – UCT
GSB
MODIFIED CAREER PATH ASSESSMENT [MCPA] – Pgs.22-26
CareerLeader Assessment [ via UCTGSB] – Pgs27-39
Korn/Ferry ProSpective Self-Assessment [Pgs. 40-47]
Korn-Ferry Network Assessment [ Pgs. 48-49]
Indigo‟s Obligations: WCGOV contract – Pg 50
CHARACTER/WORK ETHIC REFERENCES: Pgs. 51 - onwards
CURRENT EMPLOYER CEO & Management Consultant: Indigo Consulting
CURRENT POSITION: Strategic Business Consultant, Management Consultant,
Systems Thinker and Designer, Business Strategist &
Transformational Leader – consulting to various private
sector companies, government departments, provincial
and national government, civil society
COMPUTER SKILLS: Microsoft Word, Outlook and Explorer; touch type at
speed; Powerpoint, Excel
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WORK EXPERIENCE:
Head of Strategic Partnerships: Western Cape Government
Special Adviser to the Minister of Health & Leader of Government Business: Western Cape
Government [ Indigo Consulting: Company appointed to fulfil these obligations]
15 October 2009
December 2012
In August 2009, Indigo Consulting was headhunted by Minister Theuns Botha [Minister of Health &
Leader of Government Business: Western Cape Government] and Premier Zille to start the Strategic
Partnerships Portfolio within Western Cape Government. It was recognised that in order to reach
government and society‟s outcomes and objectives, a more co-ordinated approach to partnerships
with an array of role players would be required. The role is non-political and non-partisan and my
company is employed as a contractor, which means that I am neutral and focused on societal
outcomes only. [Appendix C: Pg. 35 – Obligations of the Contractor]
No specific scope or definition existed for the portfolio and so the past 3 years of engagement and
relationship building in all provincial as well as municipal departments, with academia, civil society,
philanthropic donors, embassies, consulates and private individuals, organisations and companies,
have defined the scope of the portfolio. The portfolio, responsibilities and functions are diverse as per
the requirements of the diverse stakeholders. Key achievements are:
Robust working relationship established with Ministers, HOD‟s and officials across all
departments in Western Cape Government.
Robust working relationship established with Mayor, Deputy Mayor, Councillors and officials at
City of Cape Town. CoCT is lead on the large-scale Atlantis Revitalisation Project which I
visioned and managed. [ R 30 billion project]
Thorough working knowledge of the Provincial Finance Management Act [ PFMA], Municipal
Finance Management Act [ MFMA], procurement processes and procedures and a diverse
range of pieces of legislation, policies and regulations. This has led to an eagle-eye, systems
view of the inter-related nature of governing and governance. Such a view and knowledge
base also allows for problem-solving and acts as solid foundation upon which to ensure that
processes are streamlined and service delivery is enabled.
Co-creation of the Provincial Substance Abuse Strategy with emphasis on issues related to
Alcohol Abuse. Member of the Provincial Liquor Task Team.
Working relationship with GreenCape and Wesgro. Member of the Waste-to-Energy Task
Team. Advising on a range of sustainability projects.
Ideation and iteration of the Atlantis Revitalisation Strategy and Implementation Plan. This has
been a complex, 2 year process. Economic leg is established and all 3 spheres of government
are represented on the workgroup. Business Retention & Expansion survey completed and
framework created. Public participation completed so as to finalise strategy and various
community bodies. Implementation plan and budgeting process to commence thereafter.
Social strategy approved by Minister Fritz – Passport out of Poverty /To Wellness model
adopted as strategic platform by Western Cape Department of Social Development.
Engagement with CoCT counterparts to commence and framework and workgroup to be
created. Atlantis project will result in best practice transversal Revitalisation model, with
application to various community projects in the Western Cape as well as South Africa.
COSATU and National Rescue Team part of the consultative process and on board.
Social Enterprise Strategy and Policy: Steered year-long process of consultation, working with
Economic Development team, sectoral bodies, specialists, consulates and academics.
Created broad strategy/policy document at end of 2011 – principle approval gained from all
stakeholders. Policy unit in DOTP were briefed towards formal policy creation and
implementation plan in process of negotiation between Dept of Social Development and
Dept of Economic Development. Social Enterprise provides new job creation and service
delivery improvement opportunities.
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The Health Foundation: Western Cape: - Visioned the creation of the Foundation in 2009 with
Minister Botha. Independent consultants were briefed and embarked on a process of deep
consultation with an array of potential stakeholders and partners. Confirmation that there is
willingness from private sector and donors to partner with WC Dept of Health to improve
service delivery and create new revenue streams towards service delivery expansion.
Confirmation that they prefer, as per our instinct, to transact independently from and at arm‟s
length of government. Working with Ernst & Young to establish The Health Foundation. Board
was constituted in March 2012 with Dr Paul Cluver as chair. Corporate identity briefed and
managed. This Foundation, if managed well and by a competent team, has the ability to
accelerate partnership projects and improve service delivery and quality of service
significantly.
Due to the transversal nature of the portfolio as well as the access to all levels of officials,
Ministers and officials and the mandate to „find the one way in which things can be done‟
from the Premier and Minister Botha, Strategic Partnerships has become known for its ability to
unblock processes and to push projects and initiatives forward very swiftly. A great many
letters of thanks as well as verbal interactions with a wide array of role players reflects this
reality.
Because of the diverse range of individuals and organisations that I have met with over the
past 3 years, coupled with my systems thinking/strategic abilities, a large part of the role
involves assisting these individuals and organisations to tailor their business plans so that they
are better able to access donor funding. This in turn leads to the bedding down of services in
our province. It has also been my pleasure and privilege to connect various NGO‟s with
donors and to be supportive of their activities as those relate to the improvement of the
quality of life of the citizens of our province. A great many NGO‟s have requested workshops
with me, where we have assessed their current basket of services, done a gap analysis and
whereafter I have facilitated introductions to NGO‟s, individuals and organisations who would
be best able to fill the gaps in their service package. This has led to a multiplier effect of
service delivery improvements in various communities in our province.
Robust and respectful relationship with a vast array of NGO‟s and sectoral organisations,
working across the spectrum of community based projects in the Western Cape as well as the
rest of South Africa. Counsel and advice provided on an on-going basis + directing of new
services creation so as to best deliver on combined objectives.
Various projects within Department of Health: PinkDrive Mobile Mammography; Mobile
Diagnostics Clinic and Laboratory with Fraunhofer Institut; GVI Oncology partnership in Eden
District; Saturday Surgeries project – in collaboration with Red Cross Trust; Creating the Surgical
Skills platform business case for implementation in 2012 and beyond; Wellness strategy –
including Mobile Wellness Clinics; Catalysing Private/Public Sector workgroup to deal with
nursing shortages; Clicks – Helping Hand Trust partnership; Unilever + Clicks – health messaging
campaigns partnership; Pharmacy-led Mother and Baby model – to be rolled out to all willing
private sector partners.
Formulating, testing/piloting of components and peer review of the Passport to Wellness
model – addressing the upstream determinants of downstream ill health and societal decay
via a practical model. Endorsed by a vast array of sectoral organisations and academics,
including: Dr Barbara Holtmann, Inyathelo, Prof Eric Atmore and Department of Social
Development Western Cape. Comprehensive model to be piloted in Atlantis. Various pilot
projects have delivered positive results beyond expectations. These projects are in process of
being scaled and replicated including: School @ Centre of Community; Sizukhanyo Schools
project; Delft Zoe School of Skills; Afrika Tikkun project in Mfuleni; Parenting Skills – various
organisations; ECD – various models and projects; Micro & SMME development and expansion
etc.
The above provides a snapshot of some of the achievement and projects of the past 3 years and
reflects the tip of the iceberg, as it were.
It was a huge privilege to contribute towards leaving a legacy of positive change that is future
focused. The purpose and meaning afforded me by working in government represents the
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greatest privilege I have had in my career to date and provided me with immense satisfaction.
The challenges were sometimes gargantuan, but I have yet to stumble upon a problem for which
there is not a simple and practical solution. A small snapshot of partnership projects is available in
document format, upon request.
Sales & Strategy Director: Ads24: National Advertising & Marketing Sales Division: Media24
Newspapers [100+ titles]
1 July 2008 -
Sept 2009 The scope of position included:
General Management, Overall Strategic Direction & Management – Ads24 National, Sales Direction
and Management, Operations, Client Relationship Management [ Executive Level], Strategic
planning, New Business Development, Organisational and Industry Innovation and Synergy – Ads24,
Media24 Newspapers, Rebranding, restructure and launch of new branded identity and integrated
service offering, Financial management, budgeting, forecasting, people management.
Main purpose of the position:
1. Construction, management and implementation of the Ads24 National Sales and Marketing
Strategies.
2. Fulfilling key role in the analysis and interpretation of macro and micro economic trends and
information – translation into strategy, implementation plans, training of staff + taking to market.
3. Designing and implementation of Media24 newspapers Trade marketing strategy.
Deliverable: Wrote Integrated Sales/Marketing and Trade Strategy and Plan during Nov 2008;
briefed the Manager: Market Intelligence and ad agency. Second-round plan and creative
approved. The very successful Project MeetMe rolled out in April 2009.
4. Finding internal synergies between Ads24 and newspaper verticals towards streamlining
operations and achieving overall financial and business efficiencies.
Deliverable: Integrated multi-platform strategies to achieve maximum share of voice for Media24
newspapers; worked closely with Print24 as well as Media24 Logistics. Started greenfields projects
with magazines, 24.com and digital division. Moved towards integration and transversal
approaches to business, away from inefficient and ineffective silo approach.
5. Day-to-day management of the Ads24 regional office and staff members.
6. Devising a regional sales strategy in line with the overall national sales & marketing strategy.
Deliverable: Maintenance of previous fiscal‟s actual revenue, under difficult trading conditions.
Ads24 CT achieved 23% y/y growth during Jan 2009.
7. Management and implementation of the regional sales strategy in context of the national sales
strategy.
8. Ensured that best practice people management processes were implemented and maintained -
building Ads24 into a premier sales division.
Deliverable: Worked closely with HR to devise detailed job descriptions and training programmes.
Member of Media24 Training as well as Salaries & Remuneration work groups.
9. Provided leadership to the various Sales Managers representing the Media24 newspapers
verticals. Deliverable: Ensured that best practice and knowledge were shared with management
teams at publication level towards establishing the One Voice, One Company, One Strategy
ethic between Ads24 and publications.
10. Interfaced with Executive leadership at blue-chip companies and heads of media agencies on
an Executive senior management level.
11. Within Media24, interfaced at Senior/Executive level – working towards overall M24 Newspapers
synergies and operational efficiencies between Vertical partners and Divisions.
Reporting to the CEO of Ads24, the Sales & Strategy Director was responsible for the construction,
management and implementation of the Ads24 National Sales, Business and Marketing strategies. On
a day-to day basis, managing of the various National Sales Managers, as well as being the custodian
of their portion of the National Sales budget for 100+ publications.
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Responsible for formulating sales strategy and building relationships with Blue Chip clients, brands and
Stakeholders. Responsible for positioning the Ads24 Brand as top in its field. Responsible for the career
growth of a diverse team of sales and support staff.
Conceptualising, management and implementation of the Legends Media24 Newspapers Editorial
and Advertising Excellence Awards programme and Gala event. First event launched on 11 July 2008.
It has remained a legacy project and programme within Media 24 and has continued as an annual
programme which culminates in an annual awards ceremony. I continue to consult on the
progression of the Legends brand, which has now grown in stature and value across the company.
Finding internal Media24 synergies at publication, vertical and divisional levels – improve Ads24 and
Media24 Newspapers service and product offerings + achieve operational efficiencies, best practice
sharing and streamlining of the business. Involved in company lead projects – where co-opted and
required.
Much was achieved in quite short space of time. The change management process was intense
and pushed a great many employees out of their comfort zones. The processes were however well
planned, managed and monitored and the continued success of the division bears testimony to the
strong foundation that was laid. I remain in contact with „my team‟ on their insistence and act as
mentor and provide guidance on an on-going basis. I consider this as a huge honour and privilege
and remain humbled by the fact that I am able to provide value in this way.
General Manager: W/Cape and KZN – Ads24: National Sales & Marketing Division of Media24
Newspapers [100+ titles]
1 May 2008-
30 June 2008
During March and April 2008, I was seconded to assist with the setting of strategy for what was going
to be the „new‟ Ads24, under the leadership of Sarel du Plessis. I was privileged to work alongside
Sarel in determining the long term vision and strategy for the development of an integrated national
sales unit for not only Media24 Newspapers, but ultimately, one that may become the central sales
arm of all Media24 media – from a national sales and marketing perspective. I was also privileged to
drive this strategy forward and for its full implementation in my next position as National Sales &
Strategy Director: Ads24.
I was formally appointed into the position of GM: W/Cape and KZN on 1 May 2008. As such, I was
responsible for the management and revenue of the W/Cape, E/Cape and KZN regions – and for the
management of staff and stakeholder relationships.
KZN and the E/Cape were strategic priorities – and I set out on a process of consultation and
exploration to understand the problems and challenges. A strategy was put in place and was
implemented in a phased manner; including appointing a strong and credible Sales Director in KZN
as well as appointing a Regional Marketing Specialist, to ensure focus on this region. Results:
Revenue continued in an upward trajectory in these regions and stakeholder relationships were vastly
improved.
During these two months, we gained Board approval for the strategy to restructure Ads24 into a
brand-directed, portfolio led; multi-platform sales house and my job description and title were thus
broadened to reflect the areas that I would take responsibility for. I was promoted into the role of
Sales & Strategy Director: Ads24 on 1 July 2008.
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Operations Manager: New Business Development: Media24
1 April 2007-
30 April 2008
I was approached/headhunted by Media24 Newspapers to take over the roll of Operations
Manager: New Business Development, as from 1 April 2007. The role was diverse and included the
following: -
Marketing and Brand Management and Implementation
Sales Direction and Management
Leading and Managing a national sales and management team
Communications Strategy and Management
Hands-On Operations Management
Media24 Lead strategic Projects: Development, planning and implementation
Turn-around strategies and implementation where required within Media24 divisions
MyWeek, a board-sanctioned lead project within Media24, was one of the focal areas of this role. In
the 12 months in this role, I:
Successfully rolled out 11 new MyWeek zones, including the consolidation of certain zones for
business and financial reasons. There were 28 active zones with a bi-monthly print order of 650
000 per issue when I left the position.
Took the brand to market – through-the-line campaign including: Outdoor, radio, print,
experiential, trade marketing – including a Brand Activation campaign at the Loeries – the
primary advertising awards event of the year.
Developed all stationery, corporate identity and sales materials required by the new brand.
Spent four months seconded to MyWeek North [Jhb office] – employed a new management
team, did staff training and started the process of filling sales positions, put a turn-around
strategy in place under adverse and hostile circumstances and turned the business unit
around.
Was responsible for drafting the monthly report to the CEO of Media24 newspapers – this
required business analytics, financial analysis, projections + business planning/strategic
abilities.
Drafted various, diverse Business Plans for presentation to the Media24 Board.
Responsible for the hands-on operations management of distribution and printing – including
drafting and finalising of SLA‟s with suppliers and Performance Management thereafter.
Took responsibility for the management and mentorship of the Ads24 MyWeek sales team –
including development of strategies for key clients.
Was involved in various diverse projects within the business unit and Media24 newspapers–
including digital strategy and development, The Media24 Newspapers Excellence Awards
[Project Lead]. The Excellence Awards have now become an annual event within the
company.
Over-achieved the overall Performance objectives of the position.
Senior Media Consultant: Media24 – Sunday Newspapers Stable
April 2006 – 1 April 2007
At the end of March 2006, I was approached/ headhunted by the Senior General Manager of RCP
Media to assist his Cape Town team on the National Top 30 client portfolio. I was supposed to “help
out” in the short term, but was offered a permanent position immediately after an unscheduled
interview.
At the time of receiving this particular offer, I was at a personal bifurcation point. I had already built
two successful businesses, but my children were becoming more and more independent and I was
considering the option of engaging, for the first time, in a corporate career environment in a more
formal manner, rather than as a consultant.
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I therefore agreed to join the company, with the view of building a career and future within the group
– bringing my experience, skills and knowledge to bear where they will ultimately make a real
difference and contribute to overall efficiencies, improve the bottom line, as well as to be part of the
process of innovative thinking, strategising, planning and implementation – to continue building a
sustainable company into the longer term future. Taking this position effectively meant taking a
21-year step backwards – I agreed to become a senior media consultant, which is essentially the
position I had held when I started my career.
Part of my motivation for taking this position, was to establish whether I was able to function within a
corporate environment, deal with the inevitable politics and to compare the idea of building a more
permanent career within an organisation against the very different approach employed when I was
consulting and re-structuring or re-organising corporates from a neutral, objective perspective.
Starting at the “bottom” as it were was both instructive and educational. My experience at Sprint
Media meant that I was able to identify exactly where opportunities existed – not only within Sprint –
but organisationally, for improvement and innovation. I was keen to put my knowledge, energy and
experience into practice where it would count. My greatest growth was however in my personal and
internal space, by being able to embrace my strengths, push my limits under sometimes frustrating
circumstances and to have found personal resilience beyond what I believed was possible before.
My areas of responsibility included the development of strategies to grow new revenue streams within
my portfolio and also, to maintain and grow existing revenue, that was under-serviced in the past. I
achieved year on year growth of 54% in my portfolio.
A large part of this responsibility hinged on my ability to build and cement relationships with
advertising and media agencies and ultimately, with clients and companies directly. It was my
objective to become the central pivot in terms of synergising the efforts of companies‟ direct
communications objectives [ from their direct, ad hoc, communications budgets and strategies],and
to tailor those messages to fit with their above-the-line objectives, so that their overall
marketing/advertising budget worked harder for them.
My efforts were directed towards securing revenue streams for the three publications that I
represented: Rapport, City Press and Sunday Sun. Ultimately, integrated strategies that deliver results
ensured business retention and growth. All of my efforts were directed towards long term
sustainability and growth.
The process of developing integrated strategies remains hugely exciting. For me, all aspects of
communication have to focus on doing what is right for the brand, its integrity, its values and its
objectives. Development, implementation and management of integrated strategies was what I
ultimately saw myself doing within the Group – on a larger, organisational scale and at a more senior
level. Within the Sprint division, I was co-opted to work with the brand and strategy teams and
became involved in strategy creation and implementation across the brands.
Business Director/Owner – Indigo Consulting
March 1999 – to present
Sole Member of Indigo Business and Marketing Consulting and Indigo Import & Export. During this
time I was privileged to be contracted by several Blue Chip companies in a consulting role. Clients
have included:
Shell – on their oil range [Helix] re-branding and re-launch.
Sunday Times Distribution Division – 18 month contract to improve operational efficiencies. The
scope of the project covered internal communications, copy sales strategies, staff training,
enrichment and motivation. The role extended into negotiating all national added value
copy sales promotions with national retailers, briefing creative executions and being
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responsible for management and implementation of this on-going process. It also included
devising of overall distribution strategy and implementation and management thereof.
Cape Times – devising a Business, Marketing and Sales strategy, including content overview
and recommendations to improve the overall product and saleability.
Enterprise Connection – IT division of Incredible Connection – Publicity, communications and
marketing strategy formulation and implementation.
Various SMME‟s – business and marketing strategies, corporate ID development and
implementation of relevant campaigns/projects/business plans.
Translation of corporate identity into the „lived brand‟ experience – working with organisations
to embed their ethos into the organisational DNA as well as into the spatial and aesthetics of
their office/work spaces.
This spun-off into construction, interior décor and translation of brand values – I extracted
immense satisfaction and joy out of this phase of my business career.
Trading: Establishing relationships with international factories as well as local legislative bodies,
such as SABS, for the purposes of importation of goods for local and international buyers.
Indigo was appointed as sourcing/buying agent for a selection of buyers.
Pro Bono work for a range of NGO‟s and PBO‟s – working specifically within the HIV/AIDS,
Mother-to-Child sector. This was very „new‟ and controversial at the time, but the outcomes
of the projects spoke for themselves and so it was a very easy decision to dedicate some of
my time, skills and experience into assisting these organisations.
The Engine Room February 1995 – March 1999
The Engine Room (TER) is a Marketing Communications and Design Agency, of which I was one of
seven founding shareholders. TER started with zero billings, and by the time I decided to resign as a
shareholder, I was managing a R39 million portfolio. This was of significant size and value in 1999. Our
clients included some of the most respected brands, both locally and internationally. These included
Smirnoff, Vodacom (owned 35% by Vodaphone), Simba Chips, Koo & All Gold, Liqui-Fruit, Pick „n Pay,
Pick ‟n Pay Financial Services, BP Express Shops and a basket of SFW‟s brands, to mention a few.
Client Services Director/Media Director/General Manager:
My roles in the Engine Room were diverse and challenging. As Client Services Director, I managed
the agency‟s portfolio and client service team, including the traffic and production teams. [15 team
members] This included setting and achieving of annual budgets. It also included the construction of
an agency policy document, putting job descriptions and a peer/internal review system in place.
My personal portfolio ranked as the largest in the agency in turnover/contribution terms. I ran the BP
Express Shops portfolio with two assistants. The portfolio grew from a zero base to being the largest
contributor to turnover and GP within the agency. I was involved in the crafting of a launch strategy
for the brand and was responsible for all creative and strategic implementation of launch and then
establishment of the brand in the marketplace. This included everything from shop fittings to
advertising strategy to internal communications within BP itself.
In addition to my role as Client Services Director, I was also Media Director. I appointed an external
media placement agency to manage the physical bookings, but all media plans were briefed,
approved and implemented from my desk.
I interacted with all clients of the agency on a rotational basis to ensure that their needs were met
and relationships cemented.
We worked across the board in every conceivable media to ensure that client‟s objectives were met
in the most innovative manner – always measurable by the improvement on the bottom line. The
agency was known for its unique approach to business – we became involved in a client‟s business,
understood the internal workings of each company we interacted with and as such, built up a large
and loyal client base.
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The Engine Room was the first advertising agency to have a fully-fledged Desk-Top Publishing [DTP]
studio. I was responsible for co-opting and working with some of the earliest ICT programmers, so as
to ensure that the agency was run virtually paperless and that my „ Macs‟ could speak to my „ IBM‟s‟.
The developers and programmers also wrote programmes so that my team could communicate
directly with BP‟s intranet – something that was unheard of at the time.
It seemed logical to me that one should run the agency on LEAN principles and that one should be
able to access all relevant information from your desktop, so as to optimise resources and time. We
were most definitely far ahead of our competitors and made our services available to other agencies
to train their designers in the new technology and advise them on how to integrate systems – at the
dawn of the internet age.
BBR Advertising and Marketing 1991-1995
In 1991, radio promotions started becoming very popular and advertising agencies at that time, had
difficulty coming up with concepts that tied into their above-the-line strategies and that had
follow-through from campaigns. BBR started up when my ex-husband, Olaf Brinkmann, and I, were
approached by Dairybelle and Musica (then still family owned) to devise radio promotions for them.
This heralded the start of BBR Advertising and Marketing.
The business grew rapidly into a “through-the-line” agency. Clients such as Langeberg Foods,
Gilbeys (a range of brands), Stingray Inflatables, BP (W/Cape region) soon entrusted their business‟
bottom line to us.
I was involved in all aspects of the business – from financial planning and management, to presenting
strategies, campaigns and creative executions to prospective clients, to servicing a portfolio of
clients, to creative briefing and copy writing, to physically designing campaigns. These were the days
before Macs and DTP. Design was done with the Quick Brown Fox at hand, with overlays and
dyelines. Simple, yet exciting times.
BBR established an industry reputation for being a creative Hot Shop and for going the extra mile to
ensure that clients achieved their sales objectives. The agency also handled all aspects of the Ithuba
Days – forerunner of Red Nose Day – for the SABC and the Ithuba organisers for 3 years running. I was
intimately and directly involved in the strategies, planning, logistics and implementation of these
large fundraising television productions – pre through to post event.
Republican Press 1988-1991
I was employed at Republican Press [now Caxton] as a Direct Sales Representative. My portfolio
included all direct clients across the stable of 11 publications in the group – these were diverse and
included: Farmer‟s Weekly, Garden & Home, Rooi Rose, Talk Magazine, Scope – to name but a few.
I was responsible for building a solid client base and all aspects of servicing the advertising, marketing
and promotional needs of my clients, their brands and businesses. My responsibilities included
establishing a client and business base across the range of publications, meeting and growing
revenue objectives, copywriting and design of advertisements and campaigns, having it set in
Durban ( our offices were in Cape Town and design and setting was done in Durban at the time),
approval by clients and follow through on campaigns.
As an extension to my core responsibilities, I saw immense opportunities for my client base and their
brands to benefit from extending their advertising campaigns to include promotions and added
value concepts. I conceptualised and presented such campaigns, promotions and strategies to a
variety of clients and brands and these proved to be successful.
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As a result, I was approached by the editor of Rooi Rose magazine, to take over the Promotions
function within the publication. I was involved in all aspects of promotions in the magazine, including
putting together of the Rooi Rose/Antenna Look of the Year competition and live production
television show with SABC2. This television production stands out as one of the most enjoyable and
memorable projects that I have managed. I was 21 years of age at that time.
SYNOPSIS
I have been fortunate in my 25 year career in the media/advertising/business world, to have been
involved in virtually every aspect of business, government, commerce, industry and civil society and
as this story of my career, experiences, knowledge, skills and life demonstrates, I really have been
privileged to have had such breadth and depth of experience and exposure.
My various roles and positions have required that I do strategising and business planning[ including
financial planning and management], creative briefing of studio staff and external design agencies,
judging creative work presented against the original brief and brand objectives, awarding work and
being deeply involved in the creation, execution and management of support campaigns. Most
importantly, I have been accountable and responsible for producing measurable results across the
spectrum of all that I been involved with.
I have been fortunate to work with my own staff or business teams [in the case of consulting
contracts], being involved in their mentorship as well as their personal and career growth within the
broader industry – extremely rewarding work in and of itself.
I have also been part of the evolution of the advertising industry and business landscape at large –
from paper-based design and communications, to the launch of internet and intranet, as well as the
growth of DTP as a design tool. From fax machines being the “next exciting technology” to receiving
faxes on desktop.
I can only but be excited about what lies ahead; which challenges and new technologies will be
coming along to make things even more exciting and efficient.
I hope to, one day, look back on my life and career and to have left a worthwhile social and societal
imprint; one that I hope will have made a positive difference and contribution and that will have
enriched my life and the lives of those who have crossed my path. That would make my life a life
lived well and lived in a worthwhile manner!
I love a challenge and competing with myself to push the boundaries of achievement. I am truly
passionate about people, my country and their growth and nurturing towards reaching personal,
institutional and communal, societal outcomes and objectives.
I love exploring and researching new concepts, ideas and business challenges. Life has to be about
learning, enriching my knowledge and experience base and passing this learning, knowledge and
experience on to those around me. Every question or challenge that I cannot answer today provides
an opportunity to research and learn from and to provide the answer tomorrow!
I am now, more than ever, focused on a global consciousness and in playing my part in creating a
positive, prosperous, inclusive and equitable future for the people of my country. I am also, more so
than ever before, prepared to „carry the briefcases‟ of the great thinkers, so as to learn and grow
more. At the same time, I continue to make myself available to mentor a great many peers and
those who would journey alongside me – what I have to give and share, I give and share freely and
without lien.
I continue to be driven by a deep sense of real purpose and meaning and want to ensure that I am
indeed the change I want to see in this world, that I do question and push the boundaries that are
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imposed upon growth and development and that I play a small part of creating a future that I would
be proud to inhabit.
REFEREES
1. Mrs Lee Griffin – ex Marketing/Advertising Manager: BP Southern Africa
Currently Marketing & Export Director of Stellar Organics
Mobile: 082 900 8989
Office: 021-979 1441
2. Mr Gavin Weir: Chair: Sectoral Task Team for Older Persons
Mobile: 0828557681
3. Ms Amanda Bloch: Convener of the Private Philanthropy Circle and Patron of the Red Cross
Children‟s Trust
Mobile: 0823773458
4. Sarel du Plessis – CEO: Marketing Association of South Africa
Mobile: 082 377 9730
5. Glynis Kearney – Co-owner/Director: 143 Creations
Mobile: 0723809712
6. Rodney Africa – Partner: Webber Wentzel Attorneys
Mobile: 0823724337
7. Mike Perkin – Director: Pharmacy Education International
Phone: 021 7977306
Mobile: 0823726873
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APPENDIX B: EXECUTIVE DEVELOPMENT PROGRAMME 2012: UNIVERSITY OF STELLENBOSCH BUSINESS
SCHOOL: MODULES
Career Mapping: Dr Sarah Riordan
Executive Coaching for Alignment: Dr Lloyd Chapman
Systems Thinking: Mr Steyn Heckroodt
Management Information Strategies: Mr Martin Butler
Business and Environmental, Social & Governance [ ESG] – Sustainability: Dr Arnold Smit
Marketing Trends in the new Economy: Mr Martin Neethling
Economics – a global perspective: Prof Andre Roux
Financial Strategies: Prof Dave Flynn
Engaging with the Press: Barbara Folscher
Commercial Negotiations: Prof David Venter
Strategic Management: Dr John Westwood
Sustainability thesis – including panel presentation
Work-life balance: Prof Johann Coetzee
Strategic Leadership & Change: Dr Morne Mostert
Graduated on 7 December 2012; Cum Laude: 81% Grade Average
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APPENDIX A: 1987 TO PRESENT: LIFE-LONG LEARNING, SHORT COURSES, SELF-STUDY, PERSONAL
MASTERY, METHODOLOGIES, ACQUIRED KNOWLEDGE & SKILLS
Systems Thinking and Design
Lean Methodology
High level Strategy
Marketing Strategy and implementation
Strategic Planning and Strategy Development
Business Strategy
New Business Development – complete cycle
Risk Management
Forecasting and economic trend analysis
Trends and Futurism
Public Relations, publicity and handling the press/media
Creative Development – from conceptualisation to briefing to implementation
Consumer Insights – Analysis + Briefing of research projects
Digital and multi-platform strategy – ideation and implementation
Multi-stakeholder engagement – at all levels and stations
Stakeholder Management
Budgeting and Financial Management
Financial and Capital Structure Strategies
Communications strategy and Planning
Media Strategy and implementation + Strategic Communication
Advertising – all aspects and disciplines
Brands and Branding
Negotiation Skills
Brand strategy, campaign development and implementation
Account Direction
Strategic Leadership
Transformational Leadership
People Management
Talent management, retention and succession planning
Organisational Development and Design – transformation to The Learning Organisation,
organisational wellness as the driver of sustainability – People.Profit.Planet – Triple Bottom line
Legislation, regulation and policy – comprehension of process as well as physically involved in
processes
Sustainability: In-depth study and thesis on the Waste Hierarchy and Alternative
Waste-to-Energy technologies
Substance Abuse – in-depth, immersive study of all aspects related to substance abuse so as
to co-craft the Provincial Substance Abuse Strategy - with specific focus on alcohol abuse;
emphasis also on basic understanding of neurology and Neuro-science
Government: Understanding of inter-relatedness of all 3 spheres and working across spheres
and departments on key projects as Steercom member
Supply Chain Management and Procurement
Endoscopy and Laparoscopy – Surgical Skills
Oncology – working understanding so as to forge private/public partnerships and new
working models
Health systems – all aspects
E-health – including: E-patient record systems, Telemedicine, Mobile Health Technology and
Artificial Intelligence diagnostics middleware and Enterprise Architecture
E-health strategy
Construction economics
Green and clean technology
Management information strategies, plans and implementation
Biotechnology
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Urban and Spatial Planning – including Densification, developmental nodes, designing for
sustainability
Sociology and human behaviour
Statistical Analysis
Early Childhood Development – in-depth study and mastery
Mental Health – in-depth study and mastery
Entrepreneurship – personal experience as well as mentor/lecturer
Mentorship
Social Enterprise – in-depth study of „ Third Economy‟ + strategy/policy ideation
Construction + Interior décor – as extension to brand development and the lived brand
Corporate Social Investment in Context of Corporate Social Responsibility
Social development, social cohesion and community mobilisation
Partnerships, collaboration, co-production – 3 year practical hands-on experience across all
sectors of government and society
Integrated Human Settlements, Special Needs/Social Housing – policy, strategy and
implementation plan
Inter-governmental collaboration, framework creation, building of models of excellence to be
scaled and replicated nationally
Networking abilities
Older Persons: various models of care and innovations in line with spirit of Act + policy
changes – working with Sectoral Task Team for Older Persons
Enterprise Development and Social Enterprise Development
Wellness: In-depth study including the inter-relatedness of health, wellness, social and
economic development; spanning a great many disciplines, subjects and academic areas
Pharmacotherapy – in-depth study with specific reference to Rational Prescribing and
Dispensing as opposed to current practice of Prescription Cascade/Avalanche for chronic
patients
Visual impairment: in-depth study, including India‟s model of excellence iro low-technology,
rapid cataract surgeries
Burden of Disease – local and global – study iro the upstream determinants of downstream ill
health and unwellness
Project management – ability to macro-manage multiple projects and teams concurrently –
up to 30+ projects at a time
Differently Abled and Disabled – in-depth study of various categories of disability, so as to
determine levels of service and new packages required at community level – now and into
the future
Knowledge economy: - the chain and process required to transition into a Knowledge
economy [ applied as member of Steercom of Cape Health Technology Park – with National
DST]
Alternative building technologies – broad exposure and in-depth study of all that is available –
also via reclamation from waste hierarchy
Global Warming, Climate Change, Carbon Trading – the history of the sustainability
movement and all information relevant to implementation of multiple solutions at micro and
macro levels
Creative Arts: in-depth study so as to understand healing and educational value of
reintroduction of creative arts specifically into PDI environments
Trading: Import & Export
Basic Psychology & Philosophy
Urban and Spatial Planning
SCRUM methodology
Waterfall Management Methodology
String Theory: currently in process of in-depth study – including Reciprocal Systems Physics
Pre-Feasibility and Feasibility Studies
Socio-Economic Impact Assessments and Studies
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APPENDIX C: OBLIGATIONS OF INDIGO CONSULTING: WESTERN CAPE GOVERNMENT CONTRACT 1. RIGHTS AND OBLIGATIONS OF THE CONTRACTOR
3.1 The Contractor undertakes to provide the following:
Advice and counsel to the Minister of Health and Leader of Government business of the Western Cape Government in respect of business, marketing, strategy and other related issues – as and when required;
Conceptualising and implementation of innovative solutions to service delivery conundrums – transversal [inter-departmental] solutions where indicated and appropriate;
Having access to and making use of human and financial resources within various departments to facilitate service delivery solutions’ implementation;
Building inter-departmental relationships via transversal service delivery solutions and implementation;
Identifying excellence in human resources and building upon that culture within Western Cape Government;
Global and local funding: mandated by Western Cape Government to meet with captains of industry as well as global leaders/funders, to tie up additional private sector funding towards achieving more efficient service delivery;
Writing of business plans and strategies to appropriate funding effectively;
Auditing existing Western Cape Government assets and putting plans in place to effect cost savings, up operational efficiencies, and where possible, raise additional funding via these Western Cape Government assets, towards key service delivery areas;
Project managing key strategic [ hot button] Western Cape Government projects, as allocated by the Premier and MEC’s – to ensure delivery happens seamlessly and on time; mandated to do whatever is required to deliver projects, including working around red tape that may hamper delivery;
Working with key local stakeholders – such as Cape Town Partnership, City of Cape Town, Accelerate Cape – to ensure co-operative governance and effective service delivery and innovative solutions;
Access to overall Western Cape Government Advertising and Marketing Budget and input into preparation of professional Brand/Marketing strategies and plans to ensure effective use of funds in line with the greater service delivery goals;
Available to all MEC’s to assist with business, marketing, operational and financial plans and strategies – as and when required;
Be available for meetings and in general both at the designated office[s] within WP Government as well as at a Home Office as set up by the contractor;
Make available the contractor’s home office space and adjacent areas to, inter alia: produce output, concomitant with the contractual obligations, host and accommodate stakeholders, local and foreign dignitaries as and when required; run workshops, take meetings and entertain guests, related to the obligations within this contract
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From: Bertus de Waal [mailto:[email protected]] Sent: 19 November 2012 08:04 AM To: Amanda Brinkmann Subject: RE: Personal/work-related Request: Amanda Brinkmann
Hi there Amanda Apologies for only coming back to you now. It was a bit of a hectic two weeks! “I had the privilege of working with Amanda on a project with the Western Cape Provincial Government. Amanda is a breath of fresh air! I left the initial meeting invigorated by Amanda’s positive, enthusiastic and sparkling attitude. My further encounters with her only confirmed my belief that the WCPG is blessed to have somebody as dedicated as Amanda in their service. Amanda’s work ethic is unparalleled and she has the ability to easily conceptualize and identify key issues pertaining to difficult matters. Amanda’s problem solving approach makes meetings with her a joy. She is a true ambassador to the WCPG.” Kind regards Bertus de Waal Property Investment Banking Investec Specialist Bank Telephone: (2721) 809 0714 Fax: (2786) 646 4430 Cell: (2783) 6111 646 De Wagenweg Office Park, Stellentia Avenue, Stellenbosch PO Box 516, Stellenbosch, 7599, South Africa www.investecprivatebank.co.za An authorised financial services provider From: Dr. Harold E. Robles - Medical Knowledge Institute (MKI) [mailto:[email protected]] Sent: 17 November 2012 06:22 PM To: 'Amanda Brinkmann'
Cc: [email protected] Subject: 1000x thanks, always for everything you do for us.
Dearest Amanda, It was so good to hear from you again.
A lady with your stature but most of all the experienced Ambassador of the Western Cape. One should be happy that you are part of their team. Kirsty and I always refer to you when we talk about healthcare issues on the Western Cape. You have always been so incredible helpful to us and to MKI. You dear Amanda have given us so much advice and at the same time you have opened interesting doors for us since wet met. Southern Africa needs people like you, with a passion, with incredible knowledge, but most of all with so much professionalism. I tip my cap for you and your commitment. Warmest regards, also on behalf of Kirsty Hunt,
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Yours, always, Harold Prof. Dr. Harold E. Robles Founder & President
Headquarters P.O.Box 332, 3233 ZG Oostvoorne, The Netherlands Tel.: +31-181-486804 Fax.: +31-181-483206 Mobile: +31622507949 E-mail: [email protected] Skype: H.E.Robles (Dr.H) Visit us at: www.mkifoundation.com
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