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Chris Gibbons

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  • Artificial Intelligence
  • Economics


SPEAKER DETAILS

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Chris edits Acumen, the quarterly magazine of the Gordon Institute of Business Science (GIBS) at the University of Pretoria. It’s a 96-page publication about business, general management and leadership, and since its launch in 2012, it has gained considerable traction in the marketplace.
Cover stories have featured Transnet CEO Siybonga Gama, former deputy Chief Justice Dikgang Moseneke, Competition Commissioner Tembinkosi Bonakele, GE Chief Executive Jeff Immelt, Goldman Sachs Chairman and CEO, Lloyd Blankfein, Lonmin CEO Ben Magara, Naspers Chairman Koos Bekker, Anglo American CEO Mark Cutifani and Woolworths South Africa CEO Zyda Rylands. Pulitzer-prize winning photographer Greg Marinovich has published three photo essays in the magazine.
With an interest in radio that goes back more than 40 years to when he was 16, Chris also maintains an on-air presence via the Morning Market Report on AlgoaFM (weekdays, 07.15).
Previously, he presented The Mid Day Report for Gauteng’s Talk Radio 702 and 567 Cape Talk in the Western Cape.
Chris has also worked for the BBC, ABC, NBC and Australia’s Maquarie Network.

Presentations by Chris Gibbons

Conference Facilitation

Chris is a highly experienced conference facilitator who consistently receives excellent delegate feedback. He is particularly valued for his ability to manage live audiences and confidently handle tough questions directed at panellists.

Drawing on his extensive business experience, Chris adds depth and context through his own insights and questioning. As a seasoned broadcast professional, he ensures events run smoothly and on time.

Keynotes

Ten Trends to Shape Tomorrow

This keynote explores the key global trends shaping the future of business and everyday life. Topics include urbanisation and resource pressure, an ageing global population alongside a youthful South Africa, rapid technological advancement, major shifts in healthcare, and the emergence of a divided world between those with access to advanced technology and those without.

S.A. – South Africa – Surviving Ambiguity

This presentation examines South Africa’s unique ability to navigate uncertainty and complexity. It highlights how this resilience has become a national strength, enabling the country to identify opportunities within ambiguity.

Chris also explores South Africa’s role as a gateway to Africa, a key market recognised by global partners such as China, India, and Brazil. This keynote positions adaptability as a roadmap to future success.

Duration: 45 minutes (extendable to 60 minutes)

Leadership Lessons from the Young Napoleon – How would Bonaparte have run your business?

This keynote explores the early leadership journey of Napoleon Bonaparte, focusing on the period leading up to his rise to power in 1799.

Chris examines the traits and decisions that drove Napoleon’s rapid success, while also highlighting the characteristics that later contributed to his downfall. The presentation draws parallels between Napoleon’s leadership style and modern business practices, offering insights into hiring, performance, and long-term sustainability.

This engaging session is richly illustrated with historical material, including content from French Army archives.

Each delegate receives a full-colour handout, including an “Imperial Balance Sheet” summarising the strengths and weaknesses that defined one of history’s most influential leaders.

Duration: 60 minutes

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