Sara Dien
Rondebosch
Summary
Dynamic economic diplomat with extensive experience at the South African Embassy, specializing in trade expansion and investment across MENA, and Europe. Achievements include successfully lifting trade bans and facilitating high-level state visits, which strengthened bilateral relations. Core competencies include trade negotiation, stakeholder management, and export promotion. Committed to continuing efforts that enhance South Africa within the global environment, promoting South Africa as a preferred investment destination, and highlighting South Africa's value proposition in terms of its exports to the global market.
Overview
21
21
years of professional experience
Work History
CONSUL ECONOMIC
South African Embassy
Tehran
05.2016 - 02.2021
- Company Overview: Economic Consulate in the Islamic Republic of Iran
- Spearheaded the promotion of trade and business relations between South Africa and 31 Iranian provinces
- Collaborated with key government departments, companies, chambers of commerce, and economic development agencies to foster economic growth
- Managed strategic relationships with South African companies in sectors such as telecommunications, rail, biotech, pharmaceuticals, education, automotive, and power generation
- Led bilateral discussions on trade, investment, and tourism, including negotiating the licensing of Iran’s national airline to operate flights to South Africa
- Promoted South African businesses and products in Iran, facilitating increased market access
- Economic Consulate in the Islamic Republic of Iran
CONSUL ECONOMIC TO THE ARAB REPUBLIC OF EGYPT
South African Embassy
Cairo
12.2005 - 07.2011
- Company Overview: Economic Consulate in the Arab Republic of Egypt
- Drove South Africa’s business expansion into Egypt and the wider MENA region, increasing exports and attracting investment
- Played a pivotal role in lifting the trade ban on South African meat exports to the Middle East, in collaboration with the Department of Agriculture
- Led bilateral negotiations on trade policy, including negotiations aimed at strengthening South Africa’s agricultural exports
- Chaired the African Economic Councillors for the duration of the term, advancing regional economic collaboration
- Facilitated the successful state visit of former President Zuma, accompanied by a business forum aimed at enhancing economic ties
- Economic Consulate in the Arab Republic of Egypt
Deputy Director, Export Marketing and Investment Assistance (EMIA)
The Department of Trade and Industry and Competition (DTIC)
Republic of South Africa
01.2000 - 01.2005
- Played a key role in establishing the Marketing division within the DTIC, contributing to the rebranding and modernization of the department
- Developed and implemented strategies to enhance the export of South African services, with a special focus on Africa and Europe
- Appointed to the Presidential Task Team to develop a sustainable aquaculture industry, contributing to the diversification of South Africa’s export economy
Deputy Director, Europe/Russia Desk
The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI)
Republic of South Africa
01.2000 - 01.2005
- Managed the Europe/Russia Desk, boosting South Africa’s exports to European and Russian markets
- Led the facilitation of a technical assistance program, helping South African exporters access European markets
- Organized and led a high-level trade delegation to Russia, exploring opportunities for trade and investment in agriculture and other key sectors
Education
Some College (No Degree) - Communications
Livingstone Senior Secondary
Claremont Cape TownSkills
- Global Trade & Investment
- Stakeholder Management
- Economic Diplomacy
- Strategic Partnerships & Deal Origination
- Project Management & Leadership
- Cross-Cultural Communication & Negotiation
- Impact Investment & Economic Development
- Trade negotiation
- Market analysis
- Investment promotion
- Export strategy
- Bilateral relations
- Stakeholder engagement
- Economic development
- Project management
- Regulatory compliance
- Networking skills
- Cultural awareness
- Political acumen
- Trade promotion
- Government liaison
- Diplomatic etiquette
Additional Information
Expertise in navigating complex diplomatic environments and driving results through cross-cultural understanding., Strong negotiation skills with a history of delivering impactful outcomes in high-stakes international trade agreements., Extensive network within government, business, and economic development agencies across multiple regions.
References
Available upon request.
Languages
English
First Language
Arabic
Beginner
A1
Timeline
CONSUL ECONOMIC
South African Embassy
05.2016 - 02.2021
CONSUL ECONOMIC TO THE ARAB REPUBLIC OF EGYPT
South African Embassy
12.2005 - 07.2011
Deputy Director, Export Marketing and Investment Assistance (EMIA)
The Department of Trade and Industry and Competition (DTIC)
01.2000 - 01.2005
Deputy Director, Europe/Russia Desk
The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI)
01.2000 - 01.2005
Some College (No Degree) - Communications
Livingstone Senior Secondary
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