August marks Women’s Month in South Africa – a time to spotlight the progress made towards gender equality and reflect on how far we still have to go. In the retail industry, the paradox is stark: While over 60% of South Africa’s retail workforce is female, most of these women remain in low-level or entry-level jobs. It appears that leadership for many women remains largely out of reach. According to the Department of Labour’s 2023 Employment Equity Report, only 25% of top management roles in South Africa are occupied by women – a statistic that has barely shifted in the past five years.
Despite these challenges, inspiring women are steadily breaking barriers and redefining what leadership looks like – even in sectors traditionally dominated by men, such as agriculture and retail. At KAL Group, a diversified business listed on the JSE and home to leading agricultural retailer Agrimark, women are steadily reshaping the landscape of agri-retail leadership. Among them are three women who have each navigated non-linear career paths to carve out managerial positions within the business. They credit their growth to staying true to their values, the support of inclusive leaders, and a commitment to continuous learning. Their journeys show that empathy, resilience and hard work remain powerful tools for success – especially in industries where women have historically been underrepresented.
Stephanie Nel, Manager of Financial Services, Agrimark
“Being a woman in the business world can be difficult, but you can still embrace your femininity. Kindness and empathy don’t mean being soft – they show adaptability and the ability to find collaborative solutions,” says Stephanie Nel, Manager of Financial Services at Agrimark who believes that empathy and collaboration are strengths in leadership.
Nel’s career began in 1999 as an accounting clerk at WPK Cold Stores after completing her diploma in accounting. Over time, as the business merged and evolved into Kaap Agri and what is today known as Agrimark, Nel has grown with it. Over the next two decades, Stephanie built strong relationships with clients, grew her knowledge of agricultural finance and remained committed to service excellence. “Knowing our clients and building trust over 22 years, even during tough conversations, has given me a solid foundation,” she says.
Her consistent dedication saw her promoted to Senior Financing Controller and in 2024, a proud milestone, being appointed Manager of Financial Services.
When Jo-anne Heugh applied for the role of Junior Manager at Agrimark Piketberg in 2021, she became the first woman to hold the position.
Jo-anne Heugh, Junior Manager, Agrimark Piketberg
“I was scared, but I knew growth happens outside of your comfort zone. If you stay dedicated, keep learning and believe in yourself, you can overcome any obstacle.”
After matriculating in 2012, Jo-anne faced a tough reality: there were no funds to pursue tertiary studies. Undeterred, she began working straight away, gaining her first experience at a small shoe store in her hometown. When the town’s Agrimark opened a clothing department in 2015, she grabbed the opportunity and joined as a store assistant. Determined to grow, she went beyond her duties, helping with stock purchasing and absorbing everything she could about the business. Her initiative paid off. In 2018, she became a buyer and the rest is history, as they say.
“If you stay dedicated, keep learning and believe in yourself, you can overcome any obstacle,” she says, adding that she’s continuing her journey through Agrimark’s trainee manager programme.
Mariaan Nortjé, Manager, Agrimark Sitari
For Mariaan Nortjé, Manager of Agrimark Sitari, Somerset West, it was her work ethic that made her standout from the crowd. She joined the company in 2009 as a cashier at Agrimark Durbanville, eager to work hard and make a meaningful contribution. Over the years, Nortjé’s determination, strong work ethic and willingness to learn earned her the trust of others and today she has been with Agrimark for over 16 years. With consistent effort and a commitment to the company’s values, she steadily climbed the ranks. In her current role as manager at Agrimark Sitari, she leads in such a way that she can build strong teams and lasting customer relationships.
“I’ve been incredibly fortunate to work under a leadership team that recognised my potential and supported me along the way. This journey has taught me the importance of patience, active listening, and above all, empathy,” concludes Nortjé.