Full Name: Michael J Higley
Position: VP: Southern Africa Operations, FedEx Express
Main Activity of the Company: FedEx provides customers and businesses worldwide with a broad portfolio of transport, ecommerce and business services
Date and Place of Birth: November 6, 1958, Washington DC, US
Education: BSc (criminal justice), University of North Georgia; MSc (management), Indiana Wesleyan University
First Job: Police officer
Career History Prior to Current Position: I have been an employee of FedEx for 35 years and have held various positions within Operations in the US, South America and Europe. I have held a number of MD positions in Operations since 1990
Size of First Pay Packet: Not Stated
Number of People under Your Leadership: I am part of an executive team that manages a workforce of over 1 500 employees and a fleet of about 350 vehicles in 40 facilities across South Africa, Botswana, Malawi, Mozambique, Namibia, Swaziland and Zambia
Management Style: As a global company, FedEx embodies a culture that respects diversity and strives to develop all its employees to their fullest potential. I have an open-door policy and believe in working collaboratively with members of my team
Personal Best Achievement: Not stated
Professional Best Achievement: Not stated
Person Who Has Had the Biggest Influence on Your Career: Robin, my wife of 35 years. We have relocated 14 times throughout my career. Her ability to transition seamlessly into new locations and cultures, as well as her willingness to support me through each transition, has been the centre of my success
Person You Would Most Like to Meet: Not stated
Businessperson Who Has Impressed You Most: FedEx chairperson and CEO Fred W Smith
Philosophy of Life: I believe in giving back to the community where you live and work
Biggest Ever Opportunity: Not stated
Biggest Ever Disappointment: Not stated
Favourite Reading: Autobiographies
Favourite TV Programme: Blue Bloods
Favourite Sport: American university football
Favourite Website: www.iamfedex.com
Hobbies: Fly-fishing
Married: To Robin, since 1982
Children: I have three children and seven grandchildren