TURNING CHALLENGES INTO OPPORTUNITIES
KwaZulu-Natal’s business community continues to demonstrate its ability to adapt, innovate and find opportunities in a changing economic environment. This October edition of Business Sense explores the people, ideas and investments shaping our province and the wider South African economy, with a focus on leadership, accountability and sustainable growth.
Our cover and page 3 article feature Michelle Phillips, Group Chief Executive of Transnet SOC, who examines the responsibility of leading one of South Africa’s most strategically important organisations through a period of operational and financial challenges. Her career reflects the value of understanding a business from the ground up, developing people and remaining focused on a purpose that extends beyond the boardroom.
The importance of sound decision-making is explored in Spha Phetha’s article on The Judgement Gap, which highlights the risks that arise when professional scepticism and sound judgement are lacking in financial reporting. Page 6
We also look at the future of financial reporting and business intelligence through Heather Flack’s experience of using live data to help businesses identify risks and make better-informed decisions. Page 8
The need for strong governance is very apparent in municipalities. As South Africa approaches its upcoming elections, attention will turn to the decisions and priorities that will shape our communities and economy. Adv Anastasia Mashobane writes about the post election implementation phase where measurable outcomes are required. Page 11
Technology brings opportunity, but it creates risks. Mongezi Mpahlwa and Tshilidzi Mudau of Cox Yeats examine the evolving threat of cybercrime in South Africa, highlighting the need for businesses to strengthen their security measures, verify payment details and understand their responsibilities in an increasingly digital economy. Page 5
Mike Myers also explores security in his article which highlights an important distinction: installing cameras, alarms and tracking systems is only part of the solution. Effective security also depends on trained people, clear procedures and a reliable response when an incident occurs. Page 14
This edition also addresses the practical realities of running a business. Johan van Deventer explains the legal considerations surrounding supervening impossibility in employment relationships, offering insight into how employers should respond when unforeseen circumstances affect their ability to operate. Page 4.
Trevor Clark challenges conventional recruitment practices, making the case for a more structured approach to hiring and building effective teams. Page 13
Meanwhile, Terry Flack considers how one-to-one marketing can help businesses build more meaningful customer relationships through personalisation, data and appropriate use of artificial intelligence. Page 12
There is encouraging news on the investment front. eThekwini’s response to the investment pledges announced at the 2026 KwaZulu-Natal Investment Conference points to the potential for industrial development, manufacturing growth and employment creation. Durban’s ambition to develop a superyacht economy further demonstrates the opportunities that can emerge when infrastructure, international partnerships and local expertise come together. Page 7
David White examines the launch of the Africa Credit Rating Agency and its potential role in mobilising domestic capital to support African enterprise. Page 16
Thank you to all our contributors, whose knowledge and perspectives make this publication possible, and to our readers and advertisers for their continued support. We hope this edition informs, challenges and inspires you to recognise the opportunities ahead and play your part in building a stronger, more resilient business community.
