What are the best and worst investments you have ever made?
My best investments to date, be they in the United Kingdom or South Africa, have definitely been in property. The returns achieved over the past decade have been amazing.
The worst would probably be every car I’ve ever bought: great to drive and have fun in but not worth anything much when all is said and done!
Do you have a savings or retirement plan?
My retirement planning comes principally in two forms, a small property portfolio and maximum contributions (well, all I can afford anyway) to a pension/provident fund.
Is there an investment you wish you had made?
I bought a small number of Kersaf shares in 1997 when they were around R6,95, but I didn’t keep them for very long. Bad call!
Also, I joined Adcorp Holdings in February 2003 when our shares traded at around R6 and I should’ve loaded up; they are now at around R25. Another bad call!
What is the best advice you ever received?
If you are going to do something, do it properly, or don’t do it at all.
What financial advice would you give your children?
Respect money and what it can enable you to do, but don’t let it become your master. And you can never start your retirement planning too early.
What life advice would you give your children?
Invest in yourself through a solid education and never forget those basic values that tend to set people apart (trust, honesty, politeness and so on) and always be true to your faith, family and friends.
Do you have any personal finance tricks that save you money?
Unfortunately, I am one of the worst people in this regard as I tend to favour comfort and convenience, but cash flow does often dictate the budget route that has to be followed.
Is there was one thing you would do if you could do it all again?
I am very fortunate in that my life has been extremely full and varied so far and it is a blend of these experiences that have enabled me to be where I am today, so no changes for me.
What would you do if you had enough money to do anything?
As someone who likes the finer things in life, that list would be pretty comprehensive, including cars, holidays, restaurants, fine wine et cetera.
I’m increasingly giving thought to my legacy, so I would like to apply resources towards a sustainable project of sorts that would have long-lasting benefits. But no pearls of wisdom at this stage, I’m afraid!
What is the one thing people should know when choosing a recruitment agency?
People are an organisation’s most important asset and recruiters should be seen as extensions of your business and brand who have an ability to differentiate and enhance your reputation in the “war for talent”. Make absolutely sure that you choose the right recruiter and the right person for the job.