A long-time member of SKAL INTERNATIONAL Capetown, South Africa, passed on Feb 10 after attending the SKAL Nelson Mandela celebration and will be missed. A fellow SKAL member has this to say. Niel was the Director of Marketing for Destination Africa.
With over 30 years of expertise across the hospitality industry, Niel was a seasoned chef, restaurateur, hotelier, entrepreneur, and impresario. His diverse leadership roles with organizations such as the Chaîne des Rôtisseurs, Skål International, Oudtshoorn Business Chamber, Garden Route Tourism and Business, and FAMSA Karoo have shaped his career. This experience has given him a unique perspective on the operational and strategic aspects of hospitality, tourism, and community development.
He was known for his strong networking skills and my ability to forge valuable connections that drive impactful results. His marketing and business development background is complemented by a proven record of enhancing best practices and achieving measurable success in high-pressure environments. As a collaborative leader and a self-motivated individual, he excelled at creating innovative solutions while fostering a positive and productive workplace culture.
Whether managing culinary ventures, directing tourism initiatives, or leading hospitality teams, his dedication to professional excellence and his passion for the industry guided him in every endeavor.
He connected with like-minded people at SKAL INTERNATIONAL Capetown – and will be missed.