Royal HaskoningDHV’s South African operation becomes independent
Being locally owned will provide the South African entity flexibility and independence to put more focus on profitable markets that are off strategy for Royal HaskoningDHV’s global operation.
Royal HaskoningDHV CEO Marije Hulshof said, “We believe this change is a win for both the South African operation and Royal HaskoningDHV. We will continue to support the progress of the South African entity and its 300 employees as they increase their local competitive position. And we will continue the strong and mutually beneficial partnerships for our Global Leading Market projects, especially in data centres, light industry, aviation and climate resilience.”
Anke Mastenbroek, CEO of the South African entity said, “As South African management we are fully committed and empowered to lead the business as a truly locally owned and successful company. We will build and further expand on our strong foundation in the water and infrastructure sectors in South Africa. We will also continue to grow our expanding portfolios in data centres, light industry and aviation globally together with Royal HaskoningDHV.
I’m very proud to say there is excitement and optimism in the teams about this mutual decision. For most of our 100-year history we have been a locally owned company and we are now returning to our roots.
Black Economic Empowerment
Royal HaskoningDHV South Africa already has a Level 1 Broad-Based Black Economic Empowerment (B-BBEE) status, which will be further solidified with the move to becoming locally owned. Level 1 is the highest level available under the South African B-BBEE Act, which is designed to advance economic transformation and enhance the economic participation of previously disadvantaged people in the South African economy.
Ownership
The transfer of ownership entails that 74% of the shares is now in the hands of the local South African Employee Trust and Management Trust. Royal HaskoningDHV will keep a minority stake in the local company of 26% at least for the next three years.
Over time, Royal HaskoningDHV South Africa will adopt a new name to reflect its independent status.
