New president for SACSC

Marna van der Walt, newly appointed president of the South African Council of Shopping Centres.

Van der Walt has some 20 years' experience in the property sector and is currently the CEO of Excellerate Property Services Group - which includes group companies JHI Properties, Excellerate Facilities Management, Sterikleen, Interpark and the recently acquired Enforce Security, among others.

Looking ahead

"There are rising concerns about the state of economic affairs in South Africa, stemming from labour unrest, business closures and rising interest rates. While there seems to be a wave of adversity heading our way, there are also exciting opportunities for the taking, especially in sub-Saharan Africa," says van der Walt.

"As an organisation that exists for our members, SACSC's focus will continue to provide the tools to thrive through adversity by working together, and helping pave the way to new opportunities in South Africa, on the continent and around the world."

Van der Walt adds that making inroads for South Africans to benefit from internationally recognised qualifications is one of the big items on the SACSC's agenda for the coming year.

Annual congress

Creating a powerful platform for business and education, Van der Walt notes that one of the most compelling opportunities to work and learn together is the SACSC's Annual Congress. This year it takes place at the Cape Town International Convention Centre from 20 - 22 August 2014, and is themed "Inspire".

For more information about SACSC's 18th Annual Congress, email az.gro.cscas@ellehcim or Tasnim Mustan, az.gro.cscas@minsat or visit www.sacsc.co.za.

"The Congress represents an excellent convergence of business, education and inspiration. It's networking with a purpose," says Van der Walt.

Background

Van der Walt holds a CA (SA) and a B.Compt Hons and a Certificate in the Theory of Accountancy both from University of the Free State. She also has a M.Comm (Financial Management) Cum Laude from Rand Afrikaans University, has an Advanced Taxation Certificate from Unisa and is a Fellow of the Royal Institute of Chartered Surveyors, where she is a member on its Governing Council (International).

Prior to her position as CEO of Excellerate Property Services Group, she was CEO of Gensec Property Services, now JHI Properties. Van der Walt is a former president of the South African Property Owners Association (SAPOA) and is a director of the Property Charter Council.