Adrian Gore leaves Business Unity South Africa

Business Unity South Africa (BUSA) has appointed Nolitha Fakude as vice-president after Adrian Gore resigned the position after his recent appointment as chairman of Business Leadership South Africa.

Gore founded Discovery in 1992 with what the company describes as a core purpose of “making people healthier and enhancing and protecting their lives”.

Discovery later expanded into a multinational financial services group operating across health insurance, life insurance, short-term insurance, investments and banking. The company listed on the JSE in 1997 and has since expanded into 22 countries.

Gore has also previously received several business leadership awards, including South Africa’s Best Entrepreneur by Ernst & Young in 1998 and the Sunday Times Business Leader of the Year award in 2010.

The Discovery founder has also served in leadership roles linked to entrepreneurship, public health and small business development, including as chairperson of the South African SME Fund.

‘Extensive leadership’

Meanwhile, BUSA said Fakude was nominated and appointed in line with the organisation’s memorandum of incorporation.

BUSA president Mxolisi Mgojo said Fakude brought extensive leadership experience across major companies and business associations.

“The BUSA Board could not have chosen a better and more suitable candidate for the role of vice-president,” Mgojo said.

The current chairman of Anglo American South Africa, Fakude has previously served on the boards of Anglo American, Anglo American Platinum, Sasol Mining, Datacentrix, Harmony Gold, Woolworths Holdings and the JSE.

Of benefit

Fakude is also the immediate past president of the International Women’s Forum South Africa and Minerals Council South Africa, and a former president of the Black Management Forum.

In addition, Fakude currently serves on the boards of Minerals Council South Africa, Business Leadership South Africa and Discovery Limited.

Business Unity South Africa chief executive Khulekani Mathe said Fakude’s experience in organised business structures would benefit the organisation. “Her experience in leading key organised business associations, including the Minerals Council and Business Leadership South Africa, will greatly benefit BUSA,” Mathe said.

According to Business Unity South Africa, Fakude will serve as vice-president until August 2027, with the option of reappointment for a further three-year term.

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