He serves as the President of South African Institute for Black Property Practitioners and is a board member of the Property Sector Charter Council. Mr. Matlala was part of a team that started the following companies: N3 Toll Road Company, etv, and Cell C- which is the 3rd largest cell phone company in South Africa.

Among Thomas's recognized professional work is his work with Lawyers for Human Rights, JHI, Transnet, Umbambo holdings and Inani Real Asset Management. 

Thomas's past and current directorships include, N3 Toll Road Concession Company, Ubambo Investment Company, Matreal Property Services, Inani Realty Property fund, Asakhe Realty Property Fund, Lighthouse Security and South African Institute of Black Property Practitioners.