The Fikile management team has an exceptional knowledge of the construction industry and strive to ensure consistent success through delivery. The combination of their individual skill sets make for a formidable team that is ready, willing and able to go the extra mile and to provide a professional service to clients, regardless of challenges.

THE TEAM

Hlamalani Ndlovu – CEO

Hlami took over the reigns of Fikile Construction and Fikile Projects in 2007. Since then, she has completed a number of projects, each with a value of between R20m and R700m (these include three PPP concession projects; one with Murray & Roberts and two with Group 5). Hlami’s degree in entrepreneurship has equipped her with the ability to cope with the demands of a constantly changing industry. Her ability to remain calm and focused under pressure, to motivate her team and to think laterally under all circumstances, has ensured that Fikile clients are always provided with the best possible solution and product.

Jacques De Waal – Managing Director

Jacques has over 24 years’ experience in the building industry. During this time, he has been exposed to both the commercial and construction environment. This has equipped him with the skill set required to take our business into the future. Jacques started his career after being granted a bursary from Murray & Roberts and has worked at three major JSE-listed construction companies, spending 16 years at one of these. His last position before joining Fikile Construction, was that of commercial director where he was involved in civils work, commercial buildings and property development on projects ranging in budget from R5m to R1bn. Jacques is driven by strategic thinking, thereby ensuring that the company’s business plan supports an overall vision (with the main focus on understanding and meeting client expectations). His strong leadership also ensures that the team delivers on the company’s key objectives of understanding and meeting client expectations.

Riaan Classen – Operations Director

Riaan Claassen began his career within the construction industry at Grinaker-LTA. Working for this company for nearly 20 years, he found himself exposed to a number of civils, roads and earthworks, including numerous building projects – such as high-rise office buildings, shopping centres, hospitals, casinos, hotels and national roads. During his time at Grinaker-LTA, Riaan worked in Angola and Namibia as MD. In 2006, he joined Stefanutti Stocks as Construction Director, where he began dealing with Fikile Construction. Fast-forward 10 years later, Riaan has been exposed to a number of major projects with contract values exceeding R500m. Twenty-nine years’ experience in the construction space, combined with in-depth exposure to both civils and building construction, has given him a unique skill set to deal with project efficiently and effectively, thereby increasing turnaround time. Riaan’s strong leadership style assists him in motivating project teams which leads to meeting clients’ requirements without compromising cost, quality and time. Riaan’s reputation for extraordinary commitment in delivering projects in line with client and company expectations is well-known throughout the industry.

Craig Sparks – Financial Director

Craig is a qualified chartered accountant and is registered with the South African Institute of Chartered Accountants. He also holds an honours degree in engineering geology. He started his career in mining and dam construction before shifting his focus to finance. He then headed up the finance department of a subsidiary of a multi-national manufacturing concern. Before joining Fikile Construction, Craig was the financial director at a large JSE-listed construction company. Craig is now responsible for all financial and administrative functions of our business, including corporate finance, financial reporting, corporate governance and compliance. His experience in the engineering environment, combined with his financial knowledge, gives Craig the insight and know-how to support the company’s strategic drives – whether technical or financial. His strong ability to multi-task allows the company to respond efficiently and effectively to the many varied demands placed on it.

Kaffie Van Graan – Construction Manager

Kaffie Van Graan joined Fikile Construction in 2012 and is currently a Construction Manager having completed numerous projects, including the renovation of the Standard Bank Centre in 2014. His project experience comprises educational buildings, shopping centres, residential buildings, hospitals, industrial and AAA Grade office buildings. After completing his BSc in Building Management in 1983, Kaffie joined Abcon as a Site Agent. He swiftly rose up the ranks to a Contracts Manager position and by 1987 he had been promoted into a Directorship position. Kaffie has held various leadership positions including Managing Director of PTH Construction and has shown his entrepreneurial spirit in the running of his own business. Kaffie has 33 years of experience in the building industry, and during this time has earned the respect of colleagues, associates and satisfied clients. He ensures successful completion of all his projects by proactively managing the process and identifying potential challenges early on. This approach allows him to not only ensure the highest standard of work for each project, but also to create the best experience for each client through honest and effective communication and project adaptability. With his broad experience, demonstrated leadership qualities, and years of learning from strong leaders, he is able to commit to completing jobs to the highest standards. Kaffie is currently spearheading the Fikile Construction Mentorship Programme that is focused on skills development and building a solid team that will move Fikile Construction forward.

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