Museum makes historic appointment
ADVANCING Robben Island Museum’s (RIM) innovation strategy through built environment design, smart technologies and optimised operations is the aim for newly appointed executive manager Maphootla Makhoalibe.
She was announced yesterday as the first female executive manager since RIM was declared a National Museum in 1997 – a historic move in support of employment equity in the workplace.
Makhoalibe joins RIM as the chief infrastructure officer responsible for infrastructure and facilities management on the Island, with effect from August 1.
“I would like to thank the Council of Robben Island Museum, as well as the chief executive officer, Mr Mava Dada, for the opportunity to serve our country in preserving our heritage, as well as trusting me to be the first female in the executive management team, especially in what is still considered a male-dominated industry built environment,” she said.
“My vision is to utilise my expertise to advance RIM’s innovation strategy through integrated built environment design, smart technologies and optimised operations and knowledge mobilisation.”
Makhoalibe is a professional in corporate facilities operations, project management and finance, and management consulting, with over 19 years of varied experience in complex investment projects – from inception, implementation and acquisition through to disposal in Africa, the Middle East, the US and the UK.
She has a bachelor’s degree in architecture (SA), and master’s degree in property development and planning (UK).
Her appointment comes at a time when the entity is reinventing itself through the implementation of various projects which include digitalisation, memorialisation and business remodelling.
RIM spokesperson Morongoa Ramaboa said: “This is certainly validation that women are and have always been ready to lead in strategic positions. We are excited about Makhoalibe’s arrival and have full confidence that her broad and unique experience will be valuable for RIM.
“This is certainly a win for women during Women’s Month and we wish her all the best for the journey that lies ahead.”
Makhoalibe’s mammoth task includes leading a team of about 80 people and ensuring that the division is managed according to the built environment and heritage approved standards.
She will also be responsible for Robben Island’s restoration and conservation efforts as per RIM’s Third Integrated Conservation Management Plan and contribute towards the preservation of heritage site’s universal value from an infrastructure point of view.
She joins the executive management team that comprises Dada, chief financial officer Blayne Crocker, as well as chief heritage officer Thabo Seshoka.