Francois van Schalkwyk

Emerging Markets Specialist | Senior Corporate Advisor | Strategist | Non-Executive Director

London, England, United Kingdom

About

A thought-leader and experienced executive and non-executive director, with a diverse skill set and a strong international track record. I have a proven ability to effectively implement growth, start-up, turnaround, and transformative strategies within both corporate and national/non-profit environments. I am also a believer in people and skilled at building cohesive, high-performing and remote teams.

Experience

  • Executive Director: Investment at Namibia Investment Promotion and Development Board (NIPDB)
    Mar 2021 - Jul 2025 · 4 yrs 5 mos

    Leading the Investment Department at NIPDB with a key focus on promoting Namibia as an attractive investment destination, providing investors with guidance and support upon entering Namibia. My role focusses on the following areas: - Investment Attraction - Investment Development and Analysis - Investor Relationship Management - Sector Development - Investment Enablement (Partnerships & Regional Government) - Policy Support & Advisory (Investment Incentives) - Local Economic Participation - NIPDB International Office Management - Investment Pipeline Management - Sectoral Research - Content Development - Strategic Central Government Support NIPDB actively collaborates with other offices, ministries and agencies to develop and optimise sectors for economic growth. NIPDB is a government agency in the Office of the President of the Republic of Namibia.

  • Holbrook Advisors (London, United Kingdom)
    • Board Member
      Feb 2021 - Sep 2024 · 3 yrs 8 mos

    • Founder & CEO
      Jul 2010 - Mar 2021 · 10 yrs 9 mos

      • I lead a passionate team at Holbrook Advisors to deliver change and integrated solutions through Mergers & Acquisitions, management consulting and digital transformation. • Focused on unlocking potential and implementing leading-edge technology and design strategies. • Achieved significant revenue growth and client satisfaction through innovative approaches and strategic partnerships.

  • Board Member at Lazarus Care
    Jul 2018 - Aug 2024 · 6 yrs 2 mos

    In my role as a Board Member at Lazarus Care, I led initiatives to develop life-changing products for patients with gastro-intestinal diseases. By collaborating with cross-functional teams, we ensured the production of quality-of-life products that made a significant impact on patients' well-being. Through market research and analysis, we identified key opportunities for growth and expansion in the medtech industry.

  • Director at EMS Solutions UK
    Apr 2020 - Apr 2021 · 1 yr 1 mo

    EMS is a leader on the algo/AI-based taxation analysis and recovery front, with specialist capability in corporate VAT analysis. EMS delivers services to many leading global companies across a range of industries, delivering value to management and shareholders with every project.

  • BGL Group (4 yrs 7 mos)
    • Manager: Group Corporate Development & Acquisitions
      Nov 2007 - May 2010 · 2 yrs 7 mos

    • International Business Manager (Chairman's Office)
      Nov 2005 - May 2010 · 4 yrs 7 mos

    • Relationship Manager: Affinity Partnerships - Junction Partnerships
      Jan 2009 - Dec 2009 · 1 yr