Page 159 - KZN Top Business LEADERS-eBook

TERRY ROSENBERG

erry Rosenberg is a long-time resident of become evident, confidence will naturally return. symptoms rather than the root of the issue.” One
Durban, with a wealth of experience in the Speaking from his vantage point at the Umhlanga example from his own career involved a business
business world. Originally from Johannesburg, Arch, a prominent building with a 360° view of Durban, division that was underperforming. Initially, the
The received his education at Marist Brothers he marvelled at the natural beauty of the region. He discussion centred on operations, but the real issue
and at the University of the Witwatersrand. emphasises the region’s strengths, particularly its turned out to be the limited availability of transport
beautiful weather and diverse attractions, from the that brought many of their customers to the store.
Terry’s career began in computer consulting, where North Coast to the Midlands and beyond. “Once we knew what the problem was, we were
he joined a firm that he remained with for 16 years, able to make plans to fix it,” he said.
ultimately becoming its leader. Following this time, “Wherever I can put in my two cents worth,” he
he embarked on a leveraged buyout with a colleague, explained, “I get involved in various things where While Terry does not have a specific motto, his attitude
taking a company off the Stock Exchange and hopefully we can help the business community really towards life is to never give up. “So many times when
working to revitalise it. After successfully restoring build this province into the place that it should be.” problems hit, people stand back and say, ‘This will
the company, they merged with McCarthy’s, the He noted that the business community is working never work.’ I’m very much against that,” he stated.
largest car retailer in southern Africa. In the year 2000 closely with the government to address key areas of For Terry, perseverance is key, especially when there
Terry went into a family office, where he has worked concern, including water, sewage, electricity, and the is still hope in a situation. His approach is to keep
ever since. port. Despite past leadership challenges, Terry sees trying different solutions, leveraging his network, and
progress and is encouraged by the strong cooperation staying committed to the task at hand.
Now in his 50th year in business, Terry remains
enthusiastic about his work. “As long as I am between the business community and local SUPPORT AND GROWTH
spared, I’ll still be doing business because I really authorities. He remains committed to contributing
enjoy it,” he stated. His joy comes not only from the towards making KwaZulu-Natal one of South Africa’s While Terry’s steadiness has ensured that most of his
work itself but also from engaging with people and leading provinces. “I’m very enthusiastic. As long as endeavours have been ‘smooth sailing’ he has also
witnessing their growth. we’ve got plans and people are working honestly experienced some setbacks. In such circumstances,
towards those plans, it brings hope.”
Terry’s faith has helped him rise above the
WORKING TIRELESSLY disappointments. His favourite scripture reads: “Do
NEVER GIVE UP
Among his achievements, Terry is particularly proud not be anxious about anything, but in every situation,
of his role in establishing Durban as a key convention Terry finds immense joy in collaborating with his by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present
hub in southern Africa. He reflected on an initiative team, particularly in understanding the diverse your requests to God. And the peace of God, which
that began about 23 years ago, alongside the late personalities and motivations of his key executives. transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts
Gordon Hibbert and fellow businessman Andrzej “People are very different, and it’s difficult to get and your minds in Christ Jesus.”
Kiepiela. They envisioned making Durban the everyone singing from the same sheet,” he explained. Terry shared that the greatest personal challenge he
convention centre of southern Africa and worked Success, for Terry, lies in knowing what makes each has faced was the sudden loss of a child. He and his
tirelessly to bring this vision to life. team member tick.
wife, Carol, were profoundly affected by the tragedy.
In order to make this vision a reality, a private He also highlighted the importance of knowing “It really knocked us for a long period of time,” he
public partnership called Operation Jumpstart was who he is dealing with around the board table. “You admitted, adding that they eventually managed
established. “After four years of ups and downs, we may have five people sitting there, all from different to move forward. This experience led to deeper
managed to install the convention centre in Durban,” backgrounds with different views on life,” he said. connections with others who had faced similar losses,
Terry said. The project was initially nerve-wracking, Terry emphasised the importance of defining any providing opportunities for mutual support and
with uncertainty over whether conferences would problems clearly. “It’s up to you as a leader to take growth. “It’s not something I would recommend to
come. However, their efforts paid off, and today, the out of them what their problem is, rather than what anyone if they’re wanting to grow,” Terry remarked,
Durban International Convention Centre is firmly they think their problem is.” By fostering a sense of reflecting on the difficulty of the situation.
established, having over time, brought an estimated unity and shared purpose, Terry ensures that his team
R30 billion into the city. works together effectively, much like a rugby team In summary, Terry is a steadfast and deeply moti-
where each player has a unique but essential role. vated individual, driven by his passion for business,
Terry’s strong connection to KwaZulu-Natal continues his faith, and his desire to see growth and success
and he is optimistic about the province’s future In addition, he explained, “So many times, people both in his personal life and in the community
development. He believes that as improvements in negotiations or complex situations attack the around him.
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