The Nelson Mandela Bay Business Chamber has appointed five highly respected business people as Directors on its Board, reinforcing its leadership as part of an ongoing commitment to accelerate the metro’s economic development and solidify its position as the Bay of Opportunity.
Appointed during the Chamber’s Annual General Meeting on May 28, 2025, the new Board Directors who all serve in a voluntary capacity, bring a wealth of experience from industries such as finance, automotive banking, public relations and corporate affairs. Their combined expertise will play a crucial role in guiding the Chamber as it gains ongoing traction through its initiatives, ensuring that Nelson Mandela Bay continues to evolve into a dynamic and globally competitive diverse manufacturing base on the African continent.
Denise van Huyssteen, Chief Executive Officer of the Nelson Mandela Bay Business Chamber, expressed her enthusiasm about the appointments, highlighting the importance of these professionals in taking the Chamber to the next level of development.
“We are thrilled to welcome this exceptional group to our Board,” said van Huyssteen. “Each member brings invaluable experience from their respective fields, including finance, corporate affairs, automotive, banking and public relations. Their leadership will be key as we work to revitalise Nelson Mandela Bay and position it as a leading hub for diverse manufacturing in Africa. More importantly, the appointments further demonstrate the Chamber’s commitment to excellence and its drive to foster investment and employment retention and growth in the metro.”
The newly appointed board members are:
Hazel Khumalo, Managing Director, Absa Corporate & Investment Banking, Absa Bank
An admitted attorney of the High Court, Khumalo holds an LLB from the University of Natal, a Master of Laws Degree (LLM) majoring in International Tax Law from the University of Cambridge, and an MBA from Henley Business School. She has extensive banking experience, having worked at Absa Capital, Barclays Capital, and Standard Bank, where she held senior roles across structured finance and client coverage.
Lisa McDermott, General Manager, Axalta Plascon
With over 30 years of experience as a qualified CA(SA), McDermott has worked across various industries globally, with a focus on strategy, acquisitions, mergers, and operations. In her current role, she oversees Axalta Plascon’s South African business while leading strategic, operational and financial projects worldwide. She is actively involved in the Neave/Korsten Cluster and is a member of the Chamber’s Finance Committee.
Nolundi Mzimba, Regional Public Affairs, Communications and Sustainability Manager, Coca-Cola Beverages South Africa
Mzimba has significant expertise in public relations, stakeholder engagement, and community development. She holds a Bachelor of Arts in Communication, a Postgraduate Diploma in Management Practice, and has completed a Management Talent Development Programme.
Tati Tsunke, General Manager, Sun International Boardwalk
Tsunke brings extensive experience in human resources and operational leadership. Previously the Human Resources Manager at Time Square, Tsunke holds a BA in Industrial Sociology, a Postgraduate Diploma in Human Resources Management, and several executive development certificates. He is also Chairman of the Beachfront Cluster and actively involved in Chamber safety and security initiatives.
Mike Whitfield, Managing Director, Stellantis South Africa
With more than 40 years in the automotive sector, Whitfield has held leadership roles across Africa and Europe, providing valuable insights into global automotive strategies and manufacturing. He is the former Managing Director of Nissan Africa and group strategic advisor for policies, political affairs and external relations Africa. He has worked in Europe, Egypt, South Africa and the African Continent, and is the past president of both the National Association of Automotive Manufacturers of South Africa (Naamsa) and the African Association of Automotive Manufacturers (AAAM).
Van Huyssteen emphasised the importance of these appointments in advancing the Chamber’s mission to foster a more business-friendly environment and strengthening the local economy.
“With the addition of these experienced professionals who are passionate about serving the greater good of our local economy, the Chamber is well-positioned to continue its efforts in driving economic growth, retaining investments and ensuring the Bay thrives as a key economic hub in South Africa and beyond,” she concluded.
“The Chamber looks forward to leveraging the expertise of its new board directors to create a more prosperous and sustainable future for Nelson Mandela Bay.”
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