South African entrepreneur Ipeleng Mkhari has been appointed chairperson of Attacq Ltd, the ZAR 11 billion real estate investment trust behind Waterfall City. Her leadership comes as longtime chair Pierre Tredoux retires, signaling fresh direction for the property giant.
Attacq, known for retail and office hubs like Glenfair Boulevard, Lynnwood Bridge, Garden Route Mall, and Eikestad Mall, has grown steadily despite a slow property market. Revenue for 2024 rose to ZAR 2.60 billion ($138 million), while net profits nearly doubled to ZAR 950 million ($50.4 million).
Mkhari co-founded Motseng Investment Holdings, transforming it into a multi-sector investment group. She is recognized for her support of Black economic empowerment and inclusive growth in South Africa. Analysts expect her appointment could strengthen Attacq’s strategy amid infrastructure and environmental challenges.
Ms Mkhari succeeds Mr Pierre Tredoux, who has served as Attacq’s Independent Non-Executive Chairperson since 2012.
Mr Tredoux, who first joined the Attacq Board in 2005, has made an invaluable contribution to the company during his tenure. He is the founder and Executive Director of the Barnstone Group and previously served as a Managing Director at Deloitte Consulting South Africa. With decades of experience advising South Africa’s leading organisations across various industries, his strategic insight and leadership have been instrumental to Attacq’s success.
Commenting on the announcement, Jackie van Niekerk, CEO of Attacq, said: “What stands out most about Pierre’s leadership over the years is his ability to challenge the status quo. He consistently pushed management to think bigger, aim higher, and deliver beyond expectations. He led the board with humility and has been instrumental in shaping Attacq’s culture and success.
We are equally pleased to welcome Ipeleng as our new Chairperson. Her entrepreneurial acumen, extensive industry knowledge, resilience and strategic approach will bring significant value as we continue to deliver on our strategy. I look forward to working closely with her in this next exciting chapter for Attacq.”
Ms Mkhari is an Archbishop Tutu Fellow and holds a Bachelor of Social Science degree. She has also completed The Executive Development Programme at Wits Business School. With her proven leadership, entrepreneurial drive, and commitment to transformation, she is well positioned to guide Attacq’s Board as the company continues to advance its Horizon 2030 strategy and create long-term value for all stakeholders.
