With a career deeply rooted in mining, Dave Morris has performed a variety of roles that span a wide spectrum of the industry. As a metallurgical engineer by training, he has led teams in production environments, and has had stints in operational start-up projects, business development, acquisitions, disposal and safety, sustainable development and business improvement. His diverse experiences have shaped his comprehensive understanding of business strategies, paving the way for his current endeavours.
Seven years ago, I retired from the mining industry and embarked on a new journey with Citizen Leader Lab. I participated in their Leaders for Education leadership development programme that creates partnerships between business leaders and school principals.
A chance encounter in the corridors of Anglo American where I worked at the time and where I first heard about the programme inspired this transition. Intrigued, I attended an information session which solidified my decision to participate and have my own experience of the programme. With support from Anglo American, I dove headfirst into this new opportunity.
My involvement in education is not new; it dates back to the mid-90s where I was involved in Anglo’s initiatives focused on developing leadership and communication skills in young people. However, I sought to broaden my impact beyond sector-specific projects to a more comprehensive approach and one more focused on developing social capital. It is this desire that led me to formalise my efforts in education through Citizen Leader Lab.
I’ve participated in many leadership courses, but for me, the Leaders for Education programme stood out. Unlike traditional, short-term training, this programme creates lasting change by emphasising relationships and hands-on involvement in real-world settings. This approach equips business leaders with the skills and perspectives needed to drive meaningful change in their organisations and communities. Engaging with this programme not only enriched my understanding of leadership, but also mobilised my transferable skills for the greater good. The impact of these efforts has extended beyond immediate outcomes – it has inspired others to continue a cycle of positive change.
I also understand and appreciate the profound impact of a quality education. Growing up in rural UK, access to a quality school and the provision of everything from textbooks to transportation, at virtually no cost, ensured equal opportunities for all learners. This continued into tertiary studies. This starkly contrasts with the current state of education in many parts of the world, including South Africa.
Advocating for every child
Every year, Citizen Leader Lab, in partnership with Sphere Holdings, hosts its exclusive Execs Back to School event. Now in its fifth year, this highly anticipated event brings together business leaders and school principals for a day of meaningful dialogue, collaboration and action.
The Execs Back to School immersive experience offers business leaders an opportunity to understand the impact of being in a partnership with a school principal before committing to participating the more intensive, year-long Leaders for Education programme. It highlights the impact of building social capital, developing community and leading in a different way.
This year, the event will pose a critical question to business leaders: Are the challenges in South Africa’s education system affecting your bottom line?
Business leaders certainly recognise the long-term implications of an inadequate education system on their future workforce and overall business sustainability. That said, it is not always easy to make a sustainable impact.
For business leaders, especially those in top positions, understanding and addressing the quality of education is crucial. The changing nature of work demands a workforce equipped with future-ready skills. By participating in events like Execs Back to School, business leaders can take that first step to influence the system, ensuring a sustainable pipeline of skilled talent for their businesses.
Rewired not Retired
After almost 40 years in the mining industry, I am now firmly focused on contributing to socially oriented organisations like Citizen Leader Lab, where I serve as a member of the organisation’s board.
For business leaders contemplating retirement, this is my take-away: Participating in structured programmes like those by Citizen Leader Lab offers a blend of obligation and fulfilment, ensuring continued personal growth and societal contribution. Taking a break is essential, but it is equally important to commit to something that provides a sense of purpose.
Ultimately, all business leaders must ponder the broader purpose of their enterprises and the full spectrum of their impact. Engaging with socially focused organisations not only benefits the community but also strengthens the foundations of their businesses.
My journey from mining to minds underscores the transformative power of applying business acumen to social challenges. By embracing new roles and responsibilities, business leaders can drive meaningful change.
It is time for business leaders to embrace the challenge, extend their time horizons and commit to shaping a better future through their contribution to leadership development and education.
