Johan Hanekom Keynote Speaker

Johan Hanekom is a globally recognised leader in strategy, innovation, and sustainability, having partnered with over 1,000 C-level executives across 150 international firms collectively responsible for nearly half of the world’s GDP. He is known for igniting a culture of innovation, building agile, autonomous teams, and driving sustainable, technology-enabled growth at scale.

A seasoned entrepreneur and proven business builder, Johan has launched award-winning startups and accelerated the expansion of established enterprises in some of the world’s most competitive markets. His extensive private equity experience—ranging from early-stage Series A to later-stage investments—has seen him play a pivotal role in transforming organizations from grassroots initiatives to global market leaders.

Beyond his executive track record, Johan is committed to service and stewardship. He volunteers on several boards of charities and wildlife foundations in Africa. His early career included five years in the South African Police Service and a decade of distinguished service in two British Army regiments. Academically, he studied Psychology and Criminology at UNISA and Political Economy at Kellogg College, Oxford University.

As a regular columnist for Forbes, Entrepreneur, and HuffPost, Johan provides thought leadership on sustainable business strategies, the future of innovation, and the intersection of technology with environmental stewardship. His insights guide leaders in forging resilient, socially responsible enterprises that thrive in a rapidly evolving global marketplace.