Cornelius Tobias Schalkwyk
Head Of Partnerships And Commercial
Nelspruit,Mpumalanga
Summary
Accomplished and results-driven Commercial Leader with extensive experience in the tourism industry across Africa and international markets. Proven ability to develop and execute global commercial strategies, drive revenue growth, forge strategic partnerships, and lead cross-functional teams. Expertise in product innovation, market expansion, and optimizing business operations to achieve exceptional profitability and market share gains. Seeking a challenging Head of Commercial or Commercial Director role to leverage strategic vision and leadership for significant business outcomes.
Overview
17
17
years of professional experience
2
2
Languages
Work History
Head of Partnerships and Commercial
GVI / Bushwise / GVI Expeditions
South Africa
01.2024 - Current
- Spearheaded development and execution of GVI's global commercial strategy, driving significant revenue growth and market expansion. Opening of new Base Camps Globally
- Led the optimization of pricing structures and product packages to enhance profitability and market competitiveness.
- Cultivated and managed strategic partnerships with key stakeholders across the travel, education, and non-profit sectors, resulting in mutually beneficial collaborations and increased market reach.
- Provided commercial and partnership support to Bushwise, contributing to their growth initiatives.
- Successfully launched a new travel division (GVI Expeditions) and a portfolio of innovative products and camps under the 'Bushwise Exclusive' brand, focusing on tailored immersive Africa travel experiences.
Head of Sales, Product Development, Marketing & Projects
EcoTraining Pty Ltd
Nelspruit
01.2016 - 01.2024
- Oversaw the Sales Department, including custom product development, and managed relationships with DMCs, tour operators, and travel agencies globally.
- Designed and implemented customized educational safari products for agents, universities, and tour operators, focusing on experiential travel.
- Managed the onsite training division, structuring guide training and development programs.
- Directed agent management, trade show activities, and international travel to key source markets.
- Led a dedicated sales and support team, overseeing sales strategy, projects, student support, product development, onsite training, operations, and marketing.
- Developed strong client relationships for improved customer satisfaction and repeat business.
General Manager, Premier Safaris and Head of Marketing and Sales
Marasa Africa (MadhvaniGroup)
Kampala
11.2012 - 12.2015
- Represented shareholders and directors of the Madhvani Group, overseeing their investment in Premier Safaris (DMC for East Africa, US market).
- Headed Marketing and Sales for Marasa Africa, managing 8 properties in Uganda and Kenya.
- Oversaw the development and renovation of Marasa Africa properties.
General Manager
EcoTraining Pty Ltd
Nelspruit
11.2009 - 11.2012
- Managed the Head Office and branches in South Africa, Botswana, East Africa, and Zimbabwe (6 properties).
- Initially employed as Marketing and Brand Manager, promoted to Head of Sales in 2010.
- Oversaw Marketing, Sales, Operations, and other departments at the Head Office.
- Managed international training operations in 10 countries.
- Collaborated with SA Tourism to structure and manage international media trips.
Senior Project Manager
Lynx Management Services
Johannesburg
01.2008 - 11.2009
- Provided customer service, relationship management, and project management.
- Managed corporate functions and business development.
- Led project teams and ensured project scope and financial management.
- Conducted feasibility studies and due diligence for funding applications.
- Oversaw Marketing, Finance, Logistics, Human Resources, and Project divisions.
- Consulted with clients on business structuring, planning, market research, and investment.
- Managed brand strategy, marketing alignment, and product development.
- Delivered presentations to joint venture partners and stakeholders.
- Managed project implementation, scope, deliverables, resources, and exit strategies.
Education
Bproc LLB - Law studies
University of Pretoria
Project Management Diploma - undefined
SAQA-ISSETT
International Driver's License - undefined
Computers
Pastel Accounting - undefined
SAQA-ISSETT
Skills
- Commercial strategy development
- Budget management skills
- Business operations management
- Brand strategy development
- Innovative product solutions
- Sales performance enhancement
- Strategic relationship management
- Commercial strategy development
Accomplishments
- Successfully secured and renewed SA Tourism Media Contracts.
- Maintained strong relationships with KPRN Network/ Finance and Tourism expansion.
- Served on the Uganda tourism board and the presidential board for skills development.
- Became a member of the Explorer's Club in New York.
- Grew Premier Safaris into a leading and innovative DMC in Uganda.
- Developed official guiding standards in Botswana (BOTA) and evolved EcoTraining/FGASA courses.
- Contributed to EcoTraining's year-on-year growth during a recession, and then again during Covid.
- Managed the BASE Africa green fuels project.
- Restructured financial services companies (Lowhen, Eduan/SMME Loans).
- Established Phakasane transport for coal distribution.
- Led the successful launch of 911 Smart Energy.
- Expanded Avuxeni to 16 branches in 8 months (later grew to 75 branches).
Earlier Experience
- Head of Operations – Claytony Finance group (Lowhen)
- Project Manager, Avuxeni
- Marketing and operational, 911 Smart Energy
- Personal assistant, Joseph Abramjee (PRIMEDIA)
- Manager, Red Eagle Spur – Sterland Pretoria
Personal Information
Willing To Relocate: True
Drivers License
Code 08
Timeline
Head of Partnerships and Commercial
GVI / Bushwise / GVI Expeditions
01.2024 - Current
Head of Sales, Product Development, Marketing & Projects
EcoTraining Pty Ltd
01.2016 - 01.2024
General Manager, Premier Safaris and Head of Marketing and Sales
Marasa Africa (MadhvaniGroup)
11.2012 - 12.2015
General Manager
EcoTraining Pty Ltd
11.2009 - 11.2012
Senior Project Manager
Lynx Management Services
01.2008 - 11.2009
Project Management Diploma - undefined
SAQA-ISSETT
International Driver's License - undefined
Computers
Pastel Accounting - undefined
SAQA-ISSETT
Bproc LLB - Law studies
University of Pretoria
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