Full Name: Davis Munzhedzi Sadike
Position: Project executive of the Platinum Valley Special Economic Zone (SEZ), North West Development Corporation, since July 2014
Main Activity of the Corporation: Industrial facility development to promote the local beneficiation of platinum-group metals
Date and Place of Birth: May 15, 1969, Polokwane, Limpopo
Education: BA and BEd, University of Limpopo; project management diploma, University of South Africa; master’s degree in development studies, Nelson Mandela University; master’s degree in development finance, University of Stellenbosch Business School
First Job: Biological science teacher, Kabela Secondary School, Polokwane, 1991
Size of First Pay Packet: R169
Career Path to Date: Lecturer, Modjadji College; project coordinator, MasTec; project manager, National Development Agency; account manager, Industrial Development Corporation; director, Gauteng Department of Economic Development until appointment to my current position
Value of Assets under Your Control: The value of the investment to date is about R100-million and this is expected to increase to R1-billion in the next three years
Number of People under Your Leadership: Four currently, and an anticipated 40 in the next three years
Management Style: Democratic
Personal Best Achievement: The successful designation of the Platinum Valley SEZ
Person Who Has Had the Biggest Influence on Your Life: My father, Andries, for what he achieved, given his upbringing
Person Who has had the Biggest Influence on Your Career: Reuel Khoza, chairperson of the Public Investment Corporation
Person You Would Most Like to Meet: The President of China, Xi Jinping
Businessperson Who Has Impressed You Most: Jack Welch, the former CEO of General Electric
Philosophy of Life: Always believe in yourself
Biggest Ever Opportunity: To lead people
Biggest Ever Disappointment: Negative people
Hope for the Future: That South Africans share a common vision for the prosperity of the country and that everyone rallies around that vision
Favourite Reading: Leadership books
Favourite TV Programme: Formula One Grand Prix
Favourite Food/Drink: Steak and chips, Blueberry juice
Favourite Music: Rhythm and blues
Favourite Sport: Formula One Grand Prix
Hobbies: Research
Car: Hyundai Tiburon
Pets: None
Miscellaneous Dislikes: Crowds, chaotic places
Married: To Emily (née Manaka), for 16 years
Children: Mogau, 21; Palesa, 16
Clubs: Sundowns Football Club, Arsenal Football Club