Jarred Ferreira

Visionary technology executive and transformational leader with 20+ years of progressive experience driving digital innovation and operational excellence across multi-billion-rand organizations. Currently serving as Group Chief Information Officer at African Pioneer Group, where I lead strategic technology initiatives across diversified maritime, fishing, gaming, energy and manufacturing operations spanning Africa. Proven track record of architecting and implementing enterprise-scale digital transformation programs, optimizing operational efficiency, and delivering measurable business impact through innovative technology solutions.

Demonstrated expertise in managing complex IT ecosystems, leading cross-functional teams, and driving organizational change in dynamic, high-growth environments. Strategic leadership capabilities encompass C-suite advisory, venture capital readiness, and board-level technology governance. Uniquely positioned with dual EU/ZA citizenship and operational experience across African and European markets, offering global perspective for multinational expansion and strategic partnerships.

Completing

Executive MBA (October 2025) - Advanced strategic leadership qualification complementing extensive technical expertise and executive experience.

GROUP CHIEF INFORMATION OFFICER at African Pioneer Marine (African Pioneer Group) (2021-02 – Present)

Leading technology strategy and digital transformation for African Pioneer Group's diversified portfolio (R4+ billion assets under management) spanning maritime, fishing, food & beverages, energy, and gaming sectors. Reporting directly to CEO Stephen Dondolo, responsible for enterprise-wide technology governance across multiple subsidiaries including Pioneer Fishing, Glenryck SA, and diversified investment holdings. Providing technology due diligence and strategic guidance for venture capital investments and acquisitions.

• Architected comprehensive digital transformation roadmap driving operational efficiency improvements of 35% across group companies
• Led strategic technology due diligence for high-value acquisitions, including the successful integration of Glenryck SA (major canned fish brand) technology infrastructure
• Implemented enterprise-wide cybersecurity framework achieving 99.9% uptime across critical systems and zero major security incidents
• Established innovation lab and emerging technology assessment program identifying AI/ML opportunities for competitive advantage in maritime operations
• Built strategic partnerships with global technology vendors and emerging African tech companies, positioning group for digital leadership in maritime sector
• Managed annual technology budget delivering consistent ROI improvements of 25% year-over-year
• Enabled group expansion into new African markets through scalable technology infrastructure
• Developed technology roadmap supporting sustainable fishing practices and regulatory compliance
• Created data-driven decision support systems for C-suite strategic planning
• Established technology governance framework for venture capital assessment and partnership opportunities

CHIEF INFORMATION OFFICER / CHIEF TECHNOLOGY OFFICER at Glenryck SA (BidVest Group) (2017-06 – 2021-02)

Dual-role responsibility overseeing both information technology strategy and operational technology systems for major South African food manufacturing operation. Led technology transformation during critical period of corporate restructuring and strategic realignment within BidVest Group.

• Spearheaded digital transformation initiative resulting in 40% reduction in operational costs and improved production efficiency
• Implemented integrated ERP and supply chain management systems enabling real-time visibility across manufacturing, distribution, and retail operations
• Led technology due diligence during acquisition transition from BidVest to African Pioneer Marine, ensuring seamless operational continuity
• Established DevOps culture and practices reducing software deployment time by 60% and improving system reliability
• Developed strategic technology partnerships with leading South African and international technology providers

CHIEF OPERATIONS OFFICER at Glenryck SA (BidVest Group) (2019-05 – 2020-06)

CIO role expanded to executive operations role during period of significant organizational change, responsible for end-to-end operational excellence across manufacturing, supply chain, and distribution functions. Unique dual CIO/COO experience providing comprehensive understanding of technology-enabled operations.

• Led operational restructuring program achieving 20% improvement in production efficiency and cost reduction
• Implemented lean manufacturing principles enhanced by Industry 4.0 technologies and IoT solutions
• Developed comprehensive business continuity and disaster recovery capabilities ensuring resilient operations during COVID-19 pandemic
• Established performance management framework driving accountability and continuous improvement across operations teams

HEAD OF TECHNOLOGY & OPERATIONS / SOFTWARE ENGINEER at Braviz Fine Foods (2015-01 – 2017-06)

Dual-role combining hands-on technical leadership with strategic operations management for innovative food technology company. Responsible for technology infrastructure, software development, and operational optimization.

• Designed and implemented proprietary food production management system improving operational efficiency by 30%
• Led software development team delivering custom solutions for inventory management, quality control, and distribution optimization
• Established technology infrastructure supporting rapid business growth and scalability
• Developed strategic partnerships with technology vendors and food industry systems integrators

SENIOR TECHNICAL CONSULTANT at Datasmith (2014-02 – 2014-12)

Consulting leadership role providing strategic technology advisory services to enterprise clients across diverse industries. Focused on digital transformation, systems integration, and technology strategy development.

HEAD OF TECHNOLOGY at Nexxus Corporation (2008-12 – 2014-02)

Technology leadership position responsible for enterprise technology strategy, infrastructure management, and innovation initiatives. Led technology transformation supporting business growth and operational excellence.

• Implemented enterprise-wide technology governance framework improving system reliability and security
• Led major systems integration projects enabling business expansion and operational efficiency
• Developed technology talent pipeline through strategic hiring and professional development programs
• Established strategic vendor partnerships optimizing technology procurement and support

Various Progressive Technical and Leadership Roles at Sappi, Media24 (Naspers), Compuscan Holdings (2005 – 2008)

Progressive technical and leadership roles across major South African corporations, developing expertise in systems analysis, programming, software engineering, and technology project management. Consistent track record of delivering complex technology solutions and driving innovation.

Executive MBA (EMBA) in Strategic leadership, corporate governance, and executive management – Valar Institute (Quantic) (2025-10)

BSc (HONS) in Computing and Information Systems – London Metropol University