Southern Africa integrated tourism group, Tourvest, has announced new appointments to its employees.

Group Chief Executive Luvhengo Neswiswi, who took the reins from January 1, continues to rebuild the group post COVID-19.

A chartered accountant by profession, Neswiswi has a 17-year tenure with Tourvest, having joined as Deputy CFO, and was promoted to the Group CFO position in 2006 when Tourvest was a listed entity. Neswiswi has also completed an Executive Programme at Harvard Business School.

Tourvest Group Chair, Robert Gumede, said: “Mr Neswiswi has a wealth of industry experience, excellent strategic and leadership skills, and has played a critical role in the development, growth and success of our business over the years. I am delighted that we have promoted internally, demonstrating the calibre of our team and Tourvest’s commitment to our people.

“Tourvest recognises that the tourism sector is a gateway and catalyst to economic recovery. Our priority remains to ensure job retention as we continue to reach and outperform pre-COVID levels of growth and profitability.”

Scholtz Fourie, also a chartered accountant, has been appointed Group CFO. Fourie is not new to the Group as he steps up from Tourvest Travel Services, where he served as CFO for the past seven years.

Other leadership changes include:

Gary Archer, currently CEO of Wild Horizons based in Victoria Falls (Zimbabwe), will be promoted to oversee Tourvest Activities and become a member of the Group Exco. Archer is a veteran of the industry with more than 30 years in tourism, 21 of which were spent with Tourvest.

Judi Nwokedi will take a new role of Chief Sustainability Officer responsible for Corporate Affairs, ESG, and Community Development.

Blacky Komani will take a new role of Chief International Growth Officer, where he will be responsible for growth opportunities in new markets outside South Africa.

“I believe that this new structure will ensure that the Group is strategically positioned to implement the new strategy. I also believe that we have a huge wealth of talent in the Group with expertise right across the tourism value chain that will enable us to grow from strength to strength,” concluded Neswiswi.

New GM for The Palace, Sun City

Sun International recently appointed Nico Myburgh as new General Manager for The Palace of the Lost City Hotel in Sun City.

Myburgh is no stranger to Sun International’s premier property, having been part of the team for 12 years. He returns as General Manager with the goal of repositioning The Palace as a deluxe six-star hotel.

Prior to this, he was part of the team as Hotel Manager, leading The Table Bay hotel through the pandemic. Myburgh believes he has the right combination of passion and a strong work ethic to succeed in the role.

“Given my history with The Palace, I’m passionate about the property and its people. I love dealing with customers. I always say I may not be able to travel 365 days a year, but I’m living vicariously through the people who come through our doors and share their experiences.

“The Palace is an iconic hotel. It’s always been a flagship, not only for Sun International, but for the country as well. It is known worldwide as a spectacular hotel. When people walk into the lobby, they are amazed as they look up at the beautiful architecture and hand-painted ceilings. It is a stunning property in an even more amazing location, and I am happy to be back,” he added.

ResRequest announces new leadership

Provider of hospitality software solutions, ResRequest, has announced key changes to its executive leadership team.

As part of its strategic shift, the company has appointed Jill Bennett-Howes as the CEO, following the transition of former Co-CEO Mike Coppinger to a more focused operational role. Additionally, ResRequest has welcomed Ntando Bhengu as its newest Director of New Business Development.

Coppinger, while stepping down from his Co-CEO position, will remain a director and operationally involved in the business. He will continue to help tailor ResRequest's software to meet its business needs. His vast experience and technical knowledge will further enhance the company's product offerings.

Bennett-Howes, a seasoned industry professional and key figure in ResRequest since its inception, brings her proven track record of success to her new role as CEO.

Bhengu boasts a successful history of delivering results in fast-paced, dynamic environments. With a deep understanding of the travel and tourism industry and commitment to customer satisfaction, Bhengu is well equipped to contribute to the company's future accomplishments.

"We have a remarkable leadership and team. They work hard and pour passion into everything they do. I am honoured to lead this company into its next chapter and work alongside such talented and dedicated professionals. I eagerly anticipate collaborating with Ntando and the rest of the team to drive growth, forge strong partnerships, and create exceptional experiences for our customers,” said Bennett-Howes.

"I am excited to join the Executive Team and contribute to ResRequest's continued success. I am confident that, with Jill at the helm and our team of skilled professionals, we will achieve great things and further solidify the company's position as a frontrunner in the tourism industry,” added Bhengu.