People on the move

V&A Waterfront appoints new CEO designate

V&A Waterfront CEO Designate Graham Wood.

The V&A Waterfront Board of Directors has appointed Graham Wood as CEO Designate to succeed David Green who will retire in early 2026.

Wood brings more than 20 years of experience in the South African hospitality and tourism industry, having previously held senior positions at Sun International and Southern Sun.

Board Chairperson Shirley Zinn noted Wood’s role in the rejuvenation and profitability of Sun City. The Board said it is confident he will lead the V&A Waterfront into its next chapter.

New SANParks Board announced

South Africa’s Minister of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment, Dion George.

Minister of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment Dion George has confirmed Cabinet’s approval of the new SANParks Board appointed for a three-year term from October 1 to September 30, 2028.

Board members include Chief Livhuwani Matsila (reappointed), Hulisani Mushiane (reappointed), Beryl Ferguson (Interim Board Chair), Sibongile Lynette Masuku, Nozipho Rachel Nxele, Mokgema Mongane, Catherine Warburton, Thomas Ignatius Bouwer, Raymond Maboe, Ashley Latchu and Goitsemang Mathebula.

George said: “This appointment comes at a crucial time when SANParks has unveiled its Vision 2040 strategy: the Board-driven collaborative, inclusive process of reimagining and co-creating a new future for conservation, which will require decisive and strong leadership.”

The minister said the governance of national parks is critical to South Africa’s conservation and economic development efforts through tourism, jobs and business opportunities. Ferguson will serve as Interim Chair until a permanent appointment is announced.

African Marketing Confederation launches Tourism Chapter

AMC President Helen McIntee-Carlisle.

The African Marketing Confederation (AMC) has launched a dedicated Tourism Chapter to strengthen Africa’s global competitiveness.

The initiative aims to address challenges such as weak branding strategies, limited marketing expertise and fragmented collaboration in the tourism sector. Objectives include enhancing marketing skills, promoting intra-African travel, facilitating knowledge sharing and advocating for sustainable tourism practices.

Planned activities include capacity-building workshops, research reports, partnerships with governments and industry bodies and an annual awards programme recognising excellence in African tourism marketing.

AMC President Helen McIntee-Carlisle said: “Tourism is a vital contributor to Africa’s economies but we cannot unlock its full potential without marketing excellence. The Tourism Chapter will provide the structure, expertise and collaboration necessary to elevate Africa’s destinations, ensuring they compete successfully on the global stage while promoting sustainable growth and cultural exchange.”