Vernon B.
Senior Sales and Customer Services Director
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Dr. Vernon B. is a seasoned Sales and Customer Services Director with 27 years of management experience spanning the manufacturing, technical/engineering, and HRD sectors, including 20 years in senior roles within the pulp and paper, rubber, steel, and machinery industries. At Safal Steel Southern Africa, he directs strategic sales, customer service, and new business development across South Africa and the broader Southern African region, focusing on metal roofing niches. Previously, as Export Sales Manager at Columbus Stainless, he managed a network of 17 international sales offices and two service centers, doubling sales volumes in high-value stainless steel products throughout Eastern Europe, the Middle East, the Far East, and Australasia. His track record also includes leading operational, technical, and commercial optimization initiatives, new market development, and implementation of lean manufacturing and ISO systems. Strategic planning and market expansion are central to his leadership, supported by an Executive MBA and extensive industry-specific training.
Experience
Sales and Customer Services Director
Safal Steel Southern Africa · 2024 — PresentIn this position, I oversee sales, customer services, and new business development for the Safal Group across Southern Africa. Responsibilities include crafting strategic plans for business growth and profitability, developing product portfolios, managing pricing strategies, and optimizing customer service levels. I also participate in day-to-day management as a member of the executive team and focus on team development and stakeholder relationship management.Export Sales Manager
Columbus Stainless (Pty) Ltd · 2014 — 2024In this role, I manage a substantial customer base across Eastern Europe, the Middle East, the Far East, and Australasia, focusing on niche markets. My duties involve overseeing the commercial function, maintaining customer relationships, and collaborating with other departments to enhance market presence. I also lead new product development and contract negotiations while ensuring compliance with financial and operational budgets.Managing Director
Pulpaper Machines Africa (Pty) Ltd · 2013 — 2014As head of this organization, I established the strategic direction and operational management. Key responsibilities included devising business strategies, assessing organizational efficiency, and ensuring financial performance. I guided company culture, motivated staff, and managed stakeholder relations while overseeing the business's revenue and operational targets.Technology Principle: Diagnostics and Optimization Services
Paper Machinery Technology (Pty) Ltd (Ex Beloit Walmsley Corporation) · 2008 — 2013In this position, I led technology initiatives within the South African Division, focusing on product marketing and diagnostic services for Pulp and Paper Mills. Responsibilities included managing upgrades, implementing new technologies, and overseeing project resources to enhance operational efficiency.Technical Services Manager
H & M Roller Technologies (Pty) Ltd. (Hannecard and Mitex) · 2003 — 2008In this capacity, I established the roll technical services function and advised on various technical issues in the paper and steel industries. My role involved implementing new technological services, conducting market development for new products, and managing internal quality audits.Day Superintendent Paper Machine 2
Sappi · 2000 — 2003I managed the production operations of the Newsprint Paper Machine, overseeing production shifts and ensuring compliance with quality and safety standards. My responsibilities encompassed technical improvements and planning for maintenance and shutdowns.Paper Mill Training Superintendent
Sappi · 1995 — 2000In this role, I directed the HRD function within the Paper Mill, managing training programs for operators and artisans. I conducted courses in various technical fields and handled organizational development interventions.Shift Superintendent #2 Fiberline
Sappi · 1993 — 1995I supervised the Continuous Digester, Bleach, and Chlorine Dioxide Plants during my shifts. Responsibilities included managing production quality and safety while ensuring operational efficiency.
Skills & Expertise
Education
- Executive MBA – Strategic LeadershipValar School of Business · 2024 — 2025
- Doctorate in MinistryHFBI Florida USA · 2023 — Present
- Masters in MinistryHFBI Florida USA · 2022 — Present
- Bachelors in MinistryHFBI Florida USA · 2018 — 2021
- Baccalaureus Technologiae Business AdministrationTechnikon Southern Africa (Incorporated by UNISA) · 1996 — 2001
- Trainer Development DiplomaCTU & Witwatersrand Technikon (Incorporated by Johannesburg University of Technology) · 1995 — 1996
- National Diploma Pulp and Paper TechnologyNatal Technikon (Incorporated by Durban University of Technology) · 1989 — 1991
- MatricMiddelburg Hoerskool · 1983 — 1988
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