THE FUTURE
SHOULD AN ESTATE MANAGER ‘STICK TO WHAT THEY KNOW’? FOR EXAMPLE, IF
YOU HAD TO REPLACE YOURSELF, WOULD IT BE IMPORTANT THAT THE NEW ESTATE
MANAGER HAS WORKED IN A GOLF ESTATE BEFORE, AND WOULD YOU MOVE TO
ANOTHER GOLF ESTATE?
Willem Marx - Oubaai Golf Resort
No! To be an estate manager is not rocket science. However, to be an extraordinary estate
manager, you have to understand not only the functions within your mandate but manage
expectations from any stakeholder contributing towards the wellbeing of the community. I
would rather appoint an individual with fewer of the skills required as an estate manager but
who understands the importance of service delivery, the value of a community and the worth
of a good team to deliver on community expectations. You can have an individual with all the
skills in the world but who fails to interact with the community effectively. One thing I have
learned in life is never to say never. I thrive in challenging environments but I need the freedom
to change the business should there be a need for it, or if it can add value to the benefit of the
community. The Oubaai community is very supportive, and when I present a business case
with merits, the board and members support me all the way.
SUCCESSION PLANNING, DO YOU THINK ESTATES SHOULD EMPLOY FROM WITHIN?
Steve van Greunen - Steyn City Parkland Residence
I think it should always be the first option; however, it is imperative to employ the most suitable
candidate to meet the job requirements. I strongly believe in training and developing staff to help
grow their careers. By implementing solid HR practices, such as regular personal appraisals,
these shortfalls or development needs can be determined.
DO YOU THINK IT MAKES A DIFFERENCE WHETHER THE GM IS MALE OR FEMALE?
Sarika Somai - Zimbali Coastal Resort
Whilst I strongly believe South Africa in general is a long way from gender equality in the
workplace, it is quite simple really – no matter what the position, it should be the best person
for the job.
WHAT INDUSTRY DID YOU WORK IN PRIOR TO RESIDENTIAL ESTATE MANAGEMENT,
AND HOW HAS THIS ASSISTED YOU IN YOUR CURRENT POSITION?
Denise Sharp - The Coves
I worked for many years as a bookkeeper and administration manager, which gave me the
skills to manage the budget and oversee the administration of the estate. I had my own printing
company where I gained experience both in managing resources and in project management.
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