Full Name: David Kovarsky
Position: CEO of Siyanda Chrome Smelting Company since February 2013
Main Activity of the Company: A ferrochrome project, intended for commissioning in 2019
Date and Place of Birth: September 12, 1947, Johannesburg
Education: CA (SA), University of the Witwatersrand; advanced management programme, Harvard Business School
First Job: Articled clerk, Levitt Kirson Gross
Size of First Pay Packet: R50 a month
Value of Company Assets: Currently R50-million – will grow to R3.5-billion after commissioning
Number of People under Your Leadership: 25, including contractors – will grow to 300 after commissioning
Management Style: Inclusive, transparent and calm
Personal Best Achievement: Qualifying as a chartered accountant
Person Who Has Had the Biggest Influence on Your Career: My mother
Person You Would Most Like to Meet: John le Carré
Businessperson Who Has Impressed You Most: Koos Bekker
Philosophy of Life: Do not fear the future. At this very moment, things are generally okay
Biggest Ever Opportunity: Joining the old JCI in 1983
Biggest Ever Disappointment: Not succeeding in some personal relationships
Hope for the Future: A planet that can sustain future generations
Favourite Reading: John le Carre, New Yorker magazine, Jared Diamond, Oliver Sacks
Favourite TV Programme: I hardly watch TV, except the news and some movies
Favourite Food/Drink: Steak/good Shiraz
Favourite Music: Classic rock
Favourite Sport: Cycling
Hobbies: Bonsai, photography, cycling
Car: Toyota Prado
Pets: None
Dislikes: Big shopping malls
Married: Unmarried
Children: Three sons and two daughters
Clubs: None