Afrimat’s Chief Financial Officer, Pieter de Wit, has set his sights on finalizing the integration of Lafarge South Africa (LSA) and strengthening the company’s overall financial position in 2025.
Having recently transitioned back into his role as CFO, de Wit reflected on the challenges and achievements of integrating the newly acquired LSA into Afrimat’s operations.
He previously served as the integration officer, overseeing the complex process of turning around the loss-making business while aligning it with Afrimat’s strategic vision.
“The integration was not just a merger of operations but also a full-scale turnaround,” de Wit explained. “We faced challenges ranging from branding changes, operational improvements, and payroll structure alignment to ERP system upgrades, marketing adjustments, and cultural integration.”
Despite these hurdles, de Wit credited a dedicated project team and his finance expertise for successfully navigating the process. “The analytical and action-oriented nature of finance provided strong preparation for managing complexities and ambiguities,” he added.
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Looking ahead to 2025, de Wit’s primary focus is completing the remaining integration tasks, including finalizing ERP system changes and relocating administrative offices. Additionally, he aims to maximize the potential of the newly acquired business and expedite debt repayment linked to the acquisition.
Beyond integration efforts, de Wit is also committed to strengthening Afrimat’s broader financial performance while maintaining a work-life balance. “Spending quality time with my family and pursuing my passion for photography are personal priorities,” he noted.
As Afrimat continues to expand its footprint in the mining and materials sector, de Wit’s leadership will play a crucial role in ensuring financial stability and long-term growth.
