EDWIN KRIEL
Paarl
Summary
Dynamic and results-driven executive leader with over 15 years of experience in manufacturing, sales, and international business strategy. Adept at driving operational excellence, business transformation, and revenue growth in the FMCG and food manufacturing sectors. Proven ability to lead high-performance teams, optimize production efficiency, and implement innovative strategies to expand market share. Passionate about strategic leadership, financial acumen, and fostering strong stakeholder relationships to drive sustainable business success.
Overview
16
16
years of professional experience
24
24
years of post-secondary education
1
1
Certification
Work History
General Manager – Fruit Products Western Cape
Rhodes Food Group
08.2024 - Current
- Oversee end-to-end manufacturing operations, ensuring world-class efficiency, cost control, and food safety compliance
- Lead continuous improvement initiatives to drive productivity and operational excellence
- Develop and execute business strategies to align with corporate objectives, ensuring sustainable growth and profitability
- Foster a culture of leadership, innovation, and accountability within the management team
- Maintain key stakeholder relationships to secure long-term partnerships and revenue streams
- Managed a diverse team of professionals, fostering a positive work environment and high employee satisfaction.
Director
Peaty Mills (UK)
05.2019 - 08.2024
- Serve on the board of Peaty Mills, the exclusive sales agents for RFG in the UK, providing strategic oversight and business guidance
Head of International Sales
Rhodes Food Group
06.2014 - 08.2024
- Managed all international sales and logistics for Rhodes Food Group, driving market expansion and profitability
- Led a team of commercial and shipping professionals to execute daily operations efficiently
- Established trade partnerships and developed new international business opportunities
- Directed strategic sales planning, financial budgeting, and forecasting for global markets
- Strengthened relationships with key global clients to enhance brand positioning and market penetration
Commercial Manager
Rhodes Food Group
03.2011 - 06.2014
- Managed full commercial functions, maximizing revenue and profitability across various sales channels
- Led strategic pricing negotiations and executed yearly contracts with key partners
- Developed and strengthened client relationships, ensuring long-term business success
- Oversaw production budgeting, forecasting, and resource allocation to optimize efficiency
Buyer
Shoprite
06.2009 - 03.2011
- Managed sourcing and procurement of fresh fruit and vegetables to meet demand for major retail chains
- Led supplier negotiations and determined optimal pricing structures
- Implemented promotions, inventory management, and category growth strategies
Education
Masters in Business Administration - strategic leadership, financial acumen, business transformation
Stellenbosch Business School
Cape Town, South Africa 01.2023 - 01.2024
International Executive Development Program - Executive Development
GIBS Business School
Pretoria, South Africa 04.2001 -
Financial Management Fundamentals - Accounting And Finance
Stellenbosch Business School
Cape Town, South Africa01-2019
BCom Honours Degree - Logistics
University of Stellenbosch
Bachelor of Commerce -
University of Stellenbosch
Stellenbosch, South Africa01-2007
High School Diploma -
Paarl Boys' High
Paarl 04.2001 -
Skills
- Strong Leadership & Decision-Making
- Business Development & Sales Expertise
- Negotiation & Stakeholder Engagement
- Operational & Supply Chain Efficiency
Certification
GAP Negotiation Course, The GAP Partnership, 05/01/17
Board And Advisory Roles
Director, Peaty Mills (UK), 05/01/19, Present, Serve on the board of Peaty Mills, the exclusive sales agents for RFG in the UK, providing strategic oversight and business guidance.
Mountain Biking, Golf
Completed several Mountain Biking events including Sani2C, Wine to Whales, Karoo to Coast etc.
Enjoy playing Social Golf with friends and family
Timeline
General Manager – Fruit Products Western Cape
Rhodes Food Group
08.2024 - Current
Masters in Business Administration - strategic leadership, financial acumen, business transformation
Stellenbosch Business School
01.2023 - 01.2024
Director
Peaty Mills (UK)
05.2019 - 08.2024
Head of International Sales
Rhodes Food Group
06.2014 - 08.2024
Commercial Manager
Rhodes Food Group
03.2011 - 06.2014
Buyer
Shoprite
06.2009 - 03.2011
International Executive Development Program - Executive Development
GIBS Business School
04.2001 -
High School Diploma -
Paarl Boys' High
04.2001 -
BCom Honours Degree - Logistics
University of Stellenbosch
Financial Management Fundamentals - Accounting And Finance
Stellenbosch Business School
Bachelor of Commerce -
University of Stellenbosch
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