Michael De Koker

Senior Executive with 30+ years' experience across manufacturing, retail, and distribution. Experienced in leading established brands, strengthening operational efficiency, and managing business transitions in South Africa, Africa, and Australia. Skilled in P&L management, manufacturing operations, retail growth, and supply chain oversight. Recognised for grounded leadership, culture transformation, and steady delivery of commercial performance.

Chief Executive Officer at Falke South Africa (2023-10 – Present)

Responsible for strategic leadership, operations, and commercial performance across South Africa, Australia, and New Zealand. Direct oversight of production quality, HR, finance, retail, and sales. Report to Falke Global HQ in Germany and manage the executive leadership team.

• Reduced WIP inventory and improved operational discipline.
• Implemented frameworks for accountability and daily leadership engagement.
• Strengthened product positioning in formalwear and fashion segments.

Chief Executive Officer at Suzi Products (Ubora Group) (2021-06 – 2023-09)

Directed a garment manufacturing facility supplying Woolworths and Edgars, reporting to Ubora Group HQ (Johannesburg).

• Oversaw production operations and workforce management.
• Maintained customer delivery standards during industry supply chain disruptions.

Independent Consultant at Independent Consultant (2018-10 – 2021-05)

• BMT Group (Street Fever, Lace Up, Retro): Advisory on retail/brand strategy.
• Pepkor Speciality (John Craig): Interim Merchandise Executive during restructuring.

Head of Guess Southern Africa | Head of Busby Africa | Retail Director, Guess Australia at House of Busby / Guess SA & Australia (2015-08 – 2018-09)

• Directed operations and merchandising across South Africa and Australia.
• Supported brand repositioning and new retail rollouts.
• Introduced pop-up retail formats and market-specific product innovations.

Group Merchandise Executive at Studio-88 (Blue Falcon Group) (2010-07 – 2015-07)

• Expanded retail footprint and brand portfolio.
• Negotiated supplier exclusivity and launched house brands.
• Served on EXCO, contributing to group strategy.

Buying & Project Manager at Edcon (Edgars Active) (2008 – 2010)

Senior Merchandise Manager at Foschini (Sportscene) (2006 – 2007)

Head Buyer, Menswear at PEP Stores (2005 – 2006)

Merchandise Manager / Senior Buyer at Woolworths (1998 – 2005)

Merchandise & Buying roles at Ackermans (1990 – 1997)

Owner at Spar/Takeaway (1988 – 1989)

Management Development Programme – University of Stellenbosch Business School (1993 – 1993)

B.Econ – University of Stellenbosch (1991 – 1992)

Matric with Full Exemption (1986 – 1986)