Leadership Transition at SATIB: Welcoming Kevin, Thanking Dewald
We’d like to take this opportunity to extend our heartfelt thanks and best wishes to Dewald Cillie, who is stepping down as the Executive Head of SATIB after an extraordinary 21-year journey.
Dewald has been a steadfast supporter of SATSA over many years – through crises, industry challenges, and in his role as a dedicated member of the SATSA Board. His calm leadership and deep expertise have been instrumental in guiding and supporting the SATSA community. While we will miss his presence in this role, we are confident this is not goodbye, and we look forward to crossing paths with him again in the industry.
At the same time, we warmly congratulate Kevin Watson on his appointment as SATIB’s new Managing Director. A familiar and respected face within the SATSA family, Kevin previously served as Treasurer on the SATSA Board and brings a wealth of experience in finance, tourism, and risk. We are excited to see SATIB continue its legacy under Kevin’s capable leadership, and we look forward to strengthening our collaboration with him, Natasha, and Nick in the years ahead.
We’ll kick off this next chapter at the celebration of SATIB’s 35th birthday during Africa’s Travel Indaba on 14 May 2025 at 16:30. If you’re around, pop by and say hello!
Final Dewald's Desk Message
Shared by SATIB Mailer
As I write this final edition of Dewald’s Desk, I do so with immense gratitude for the journey I’ve had with SATIB and excitement for what lies ahead - for both myself and the company.
After 21 incredible years, I have made the decision to step down as Managing Director to focus on family and explore new opportunities - something that SATIB has fully supported. However, my connection to SATIB remains strong, and I will continue consulting to the company while also pursuing other interests.
SATIB has always been built on resilience, expertise, and an unwavering commitment to our clients. Over our 35-year history, we have successfully navigated leadership transitions while ensuring continuity in service and strategic direction. This transition is no different - we have spent the last six months carefully planning a seamless handover to maintain stability for our team and valued clients alike.
I joined SATIB 21 years ago, working my way through the ranks before becoming Managing Director in 2017. During that time, I've had the privilege of being part of a dynamic industry - one that has faced its fair share of challenges but also endless opportunities for innovation and growth. One of my most meaningful experiences was advocating for client rights during the COVID-19 crisis and ensuring businesses could still access coverage as capacity tightened in key areas like thatch risk insurance. It’s been an honour leading this business alongside such a dedicated team, serving you - our valued partners - and helping shape solutions tailored specifically to tourism and leisure industries across Africa.
With that said, it is now time for me to pass on the baton…
I am delighted to announce that Kevin Watson will take over as Managing Director from 1 May 2025. Having served on the SATIB Board for 16 years, Kevin knows this business inside out. His extensive experience - including his tenure as Financial Director at IFA Hotels & Resorts and his role on the Board of SATSA - gives him a deep understanding of both risk management and tourism sectors alike. As a CA (SA) with an MBA, Kevin brings not only financial expertise but also strategic leadership skills that will help drive SATIB forward into its next phase of growth while continuing our legacy as a boutique brokerage delivering specialist risk solutions tailored specifically for tourism & leisure businesses across Africa.
With Kevin stepping into this role alongside longstanding leaders Natasha Parry (General Manager) and Nick Konstandoudakis (Branch Head) as well as experienced Board members Anthony Courtenay and Vis Govender, I have no doubt that this transition will be smooth - and that under their guidance, SATIB will continue going from strength to strength.
For any queries during this period, please feel free to reach out to your account executive or Natasha or Nick directly - they are available to assist wherever needed.
Finally, I express my deepest appreciation for your trust over these past two decades - it has been an honour leading SATIB alongside such talented colleagues and valued partners like you all! Though my role may be changing, my belief in this company’s mission remains unwavering - I look forward to seeing it thrive under new, capable leadership!
Please join me in wishing both Kevin - and indeed all at SATIB - the very best as they embark on this exciting next chapter!
