Alan is a Chartered Accountant by profession. He joined the group in April 2012 as CEO, prior to which he was the CEO of Nolands (Cape Town and South Africa), where he served his articles and subsequently became a partner in 1998. During this time he served on several boards gaining experience in varied industries from property funds to insurance underwriters and various service industries.Alan was appointed as a director of the company on 10 April 2012 and serves on all the Board Committees in an executive capacity.
My Definition Of Success | Being able to do what you want to do and not what you have to do. This has pretty much been my gauge of success since I can remember and something that I always said I would strive for.
I Am Driven By | My family. I have a wife and a teenage son and daughter. If I can leave this place making them happier and wealthier, then I would be happy.
The Difference Between Good And Great | Clarity of thought and single-mindedness. I have met many very intelligent or gifted people, but the ones that are invariably great in whatever they set out to do , are the ones who are able to focus on the task at hand, no matter the distractions.
The Characteristics Of Success | I am a relaxed person and able to deal with stress very effectively. I try to stay fit and to lead a balanced life. As a contradiction, to lead a balanced life, you probably need to forfeit something so that you can accommodate everyone and everything. Choose the things that are not important to you, to forfeit. Stay grounded.
Lessons I Have Learnt | Everyone makes mistakes. It’s an old cliché, but it really is true to say that it is how you recover that counts more than the mistake. As a result have bundles of sympathy and empathy, but don’t be weak.
Dealing With Doubt | Eat the Bull-frog early! Fear can eat away at you, so take on difficult tasks as soon as possible.
The Meaning Of Life | We are all born and will all die. The only things we leave behind are memories. We should all try to ensure that those memories are more positive than negative. No one will have blemish-free memories, but if each person works on a credit balance ( I am a CA!) then that’s ok. Our lives must positively impact many of those around us.
The Best Advice I’ve Received | There are so many one liners over the years, but one that sticks out is : If something is worth doing, it’s worth doing well.
Advice On Building Wealth | Start saving early. Avoid debt, unless it’s for a growth asset.
The Legacy I Would Like To Leave | Local guy, made good. Assisted many others along the way.