Gensec Property Services (Gensec), one of the leading independent, property management companies in South Africa, today sponsored the Economic Empowerment of Women in Property Workshop. The workshop, held at the Indaba Hotel, focussed on exploring the challenges and opportunities confronting women leaders in property management.

Stella Sigcau, Minister of Public Works, welcomed the delegates, while numerous other high profile, female business leaders formed part of the speakers’ panel. Issues discussed included the empowerment of women in the property sector, the lack of female ownership in property management and the challenges and opportunities facing the empowerment of women in the property sector.

Marna van der Walt, CEO of Gensec, comments, “At Gensec, we adopt a holistic approach to BEE, addressing all aspects including ownership, employment equity, procurement practices and development of staff. We monitor our position based on the progress made in each of these categories year on year, with constant improvement being our main motivator. Being involved in workshops such as this one allows us to perform an even more hands-on role in the industry empowerment process.

“We have taken a keen interest in the development of economic empowerment in the industry and are currently playing an active role in the compilation of the Property Charter. In addition, our Business Development Director, Themba Vundla, serves as the rotating Chairman of SAPOA, which provides us with yet another platform for being actively involved.”

Through the recent transaction involving senior management, the Pam Golding Property Group and black economic empowerment partner, the Sam Montsi Consortium, Gensec became fully empowered with 29% of the equity held by BEE stakeholders. The Group’s PDI profile has improved markedly with both the Board and executive management at 33%, respectively up from 17% and 0%. Senior management’s profile increased to 8% from 0%, while middle management reflects a 26% representation, an improvement on the previous 12%. The Group’s BEE procurement has increased from 12% to the current 26%.

Ends

For immediate comment, please contact:

Marna van der Walt – CEO: Gensec Property Services

Tel                     :       011 471 7530
Cell                    :       083 457 7541