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Ricki Govender
New Business Development Manager
Professional Background
Ricki Govender is an accomplished professional with over 25 years of extensive experience in the fast-moving consumer goods (FMCG) sector, particularly focusing on Food and Beverage. His diverse career has traversed various roles in manufacturing, enabling him to develop a high level of expertise in both automated and labor-intensive production environments. Ricki's in-depth knowledge of manufacturing processes is complemented by his strong capabilities in industrial relations, having successfully negotiated with multiple trade unions to foster a collaborative working environment.
Throughout his impressive career, Ricki has held several significant positions. He currently serves as the New Business Development Manager at Clover S.A. Proprietary Limited, where he plays a vital role in driving new initiatives and growing the company's footprint in the market. His previous experience includes roles such as General Manager Manufacturing at Rich Products Corporation Africa, where he honed his leadership skills and managed key operations.
Ricki's career journey began at Tiger Brands, where he held numerous positions ranging from Production Manager to Customer Manager, giving him a comprehensive understanding of the supply chain and customer relationship dynamics within the FMCG landscape. His experience also extends to international markets, having worked as Operations Manager at HJ Heinz France SAS, further broadening his insight into manufacturing operations on a global scale.
Education and Achievements
Ricki's educational background is equally impressive, bolstering his professional expertise. He holds an MBA from Regent Business School, honed during his time at Honoris University in the UK. His foundational studies in Food Technology were completed at ML Sultan Technikon (now part of the Durban University of Technology), where he gained vital insights into food science and technology crucial for his subsequent career in the FMCG sector.
In addition to his MBA, Ricki is currently pursuing a PhD in Business Administration, Management and Operations at the University of Johannesburg. He further enriched his educational experience by completing a Senior Management Development Program at Stellenbosch University, which equipped him with advanced management strategies and leadership skills. Ricki also holds a B Tech in Operations Management from the University of Johannesburg and a National Diploma in Manufacturing Management from Durban University of Technology.
Notable Achievements
Ricki's professional journey is marked by a number of significant achievements, demonstrating his commitment to performance and excellence. A passionate advocate for operational efficiency, he has effectively implemented Total Productive Maintenance (TPM) and other World-Class Manufacturing (WCM) methodologies across various plants, driving improvements in productivity and cost savings.
His expertise in value engineering has played a crucial role in optimizing the supply chain, ensuring that operational processes are not only effective but also efficient. Ricki has established partnerships with co-packaging entities in South Africa and Africa, creating sustainable and productive collaborations that benefit the organizations he has worked with.
Furthermore, he has a strong track record in performing operational and financial analyses for mergers and acquisitions, leveraging his analytical skills to support strategic decision-making. Ricki's blend of technical knowledge and commercial acumen positions him as a valued asset in any organization seeking to thrive within the competitive FMCG industry.
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