Lebo Tlomatsane

Seasoned sustainability, research, and community development leader with over 20 years of experience across FMCG, packaging, international development, and the non-profit sector. Proven track record in designing and scaling high-impact programmes that advance circular economy goals, environmental compliance, and socio-economic inclusion. Currently serving as Research Development & Monitoring Manager at Sustainable Seas Trust, leading evidence-based sustainability programmes, impact measurement frameworks, and strategic research initiatives supporting ocean conservation and circular economy transitions.

Recognised subject matter expert in packaging waste, sustainability policy, and Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR), with extensive experience building cross-sector partnerships across government, NGOs, academia, and industry.

Research Development & Monitoring Manager - Sustainable Seas Trust

(2026-01)

Lead the design and implementation of research, monitoring, and evaluation frameworks to strengthen evidence-based decision-making and measure the impact of circular economy and marine sustainability programmes.

• Develop and implement organisation-wide monitoring, evaluation, and learning (MEL) frameworks aligned to strategic objectives
• Lead research design and strategic partnerships supporting ocean conservation, waste reduction, and circular economy initiatives
• Translate data and research insights into actionable strategies, policy inputs, and stakeholder reports
• Support programme teams with impact measurement tools, indicators, and reporting systems
• Strengthen collaboration with academic institutions, government bodies, and international partners
• Contribute to thought leadership through research outputs, reports, and policy engagement

Community Development Manager (Waste Portfolio) - Coca-Cola Beverages South Africa

(2016-01 - 2025-12)

Led national waste and recycling programmes aligned to the "World Without Waste" strategy, driving circular economy innovation and socio-economic inclusion.

• Exceeded annual waste retrieval targets
• Led award-winning team recognised for innovation and community impact
• Designed and scaled reverse logistics systems for post-consumer waste collection
• Expanded national school recycling programme with strong industry recognition
• Integrated informal waste collectors into formal value chains, creating sustainable livelihoods
• Sustainability strategy development aligned to global sustainability goals and local EPR legislation
• Stakeholder engagement across government, NGOs, and private sector
• Policy implementation and regulatory compliance
• Programme innovation and design
• Budget management of R22 million annually
• Executive reporting and performance tracking
• Team leadership and capability development

Technical Advisor - Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit (GIZ)

(2010-01 - 2016-12)

• Designed and implemented sustainability and youth development programmes across Africa
• Managed multi-country partnerships and an R80 million programme budget
• Authored development frameworks including the "D-License Manual for Youth Development through Football"

Legacy Coordinator - 2010 FIFA World Cup Organising Committee South Africa

(2007-01 - 2010-12)

• Led post-event legacy programmes across South Africa and the African continent
• Built global partnerships in sustainability and sports development

Events Manager - Makwetla & Associates

(2005-01 - 2007-12)

• Delivered national CSR and outreach campaigns for major clients including SABC, Telkom, and Old Mutual

Postgraduate Diploma in Management Practice - Henley Business School (2020-12)

BTech - Public Relations Management - Pretoria Technikon (2003-12)