The News24 Business Awards, now in its fourth year, were announced at a gala event in Cape Town on Thursday evening, recognising companies that excel in client service, innovation, strategy, communication, and transparency. More than 13 000 of News24’s readers were surveyed about their experiences with companies, rating premiums and pricing, communication, and claims processes.
There is also a sizeable qualitative aspect to the awards, which includes the News24 team’s own assessment of companies’ media relations, offerings and innovation. Data from the National Financial Ombud complaints data are also assessed. The final rankings were audited by an actuarial consultant.
The CEO of the Year award goes to Datatec Group CEO, Jens Montanana, who founded the company in 1986. Montanana is credited with achieving an impressive strategic reset of the group, with a big shift towards software and services, including cybersecurity. This is paying off in a big way, and he is lauded by analysts for expanding margins and unlocking value, while forging key partnerships across the world.
Company of the Year: Pan African Resources
The News24 Company of the Year is the South African gold miner Pan African Resources. The company delivered total returns of more than 600% over the past five years. While this was bolstered by a strong rally in precious metal prices, investors credited the group’s operational outperformance, agility and innovation for growing from a small gold tailings miner to an R80 billion force to be reckoned with.
Pan African Resources was praised for its ability to deliver projects on time and on budget, and for delivering on its pledge to be one of the highest-margin and lowest-cost gold miners. Investors also recognised its willingness to invest in areas of South Africa that have been marred by crime and lawlessness.
Why These Companies Stand Out
According to JSE-listed companies data, the CEO and Company of the Year winners are determined by looking at companies that have delivered the strongest investment returns in recent years. From a shortlist of contenders, News24 consulted fund managers and analysts on their views of the CEOs of these companies, and how well they are delivering on commitments and operational excellence.
Some key factors that contributed to the winners’ success include:
- Strong leadership and vision
- Ability to adapt to changing market conditions
- Commitment to innovation and customer service
- Operational efficiency and cost management
