Kerry van der Merwe | CFO | Rainbow Chicken Ltd |
In the dynamic and challenging business world, women’s leadership roles have been evolving rapidly, yet there remains much ground to cover. Kerry van der Merwe, the Chief Financial Officer (CFO) of Rainbow Chicken Ltd., stands as a testament to the progress made and the work still to be done.
Her journey, marked by perseverance, strategic foresight, and a commitment to gender equality, offers valuable insights for aspiring female leaders and decision-makers across industries.
The Road to CFO
Kerry’s path to the CFO role at Rainbow Chicken Ltd. was anything but straightforward. It encompassed a range of positions, from technical accounting and tax to operational commercial support. ‘I made several lateral moves to broaden my business knowledge and enhance my team management and leadership skills,’ Kerry recalls. This diverse experience equipped her for the complexities of the CFO role and provided her with a comprehensive understanding of the business from multiple angles.
One of her most significant challenges was navigating the company through the COVID-19 pandemic. Simultaneously, the poultry industry grappled with high input costs, Avian Influenza, and load shedding—each posing significant threats to the business’s stability. Yet, Kerry views these challenges as formative experiences that shaped her leadership style. “It is these challenges that ultimately shape us and allow us to develop and take on more challenging roles in the future,” she reflects.
Women in Leadership: Progress and the Road Ahead
As a female leader in a major corporation, Kerry has observed women’s gradual but steady rise to leadership positions in South Africa. ‘I’ve definitely seen a positive change in the number of women in leadership roles over my career,’ she notes. However, she quickly points out that there is still a long way to go. Kerry stresses the significance of collaboration and mutual support among women to ensure they reach their full potential.
Promoting Female Empowerment at Rainbow
At Rainbow, Kerry has cultivated an environment that champions and advances female empowerment. She believes in deliberate strategies and firm policies around this cause but integrates empowerment into her everyday routines. ‘I engage in continuous informal mentoring and feedback, act as a sounding board, and assist colleagues studying,’ Kerry shares. These small, consistent actions contribute to a broader culture of support and growth for women within the company.
Balancing Work and Life
One of the most pressing issues for women in leadership is balancing their professional and personal lives. Rainbow supports work-life balance by offering flexibility wherever possible and measuring performance based on output rather than hours clocked. Kerry acknowledges that finding the perfect balance is often challenging, especially for female leaders. “I try to be transparent and honest about the challenges and joys of balancing work and family,” she says. She attributes the company’s culture of respect and trust as critical for this flexibility and autonomy.
Celebrating Women’s Achievements
Women’s Month is an opportunity to reflect on the achievements and struggles of women across different eras. It’s a time to celebrate the diversity and strength of women in various fields, especially in business. Rainbow has planned several activities to mark the occasion, including a virtual Women’s Day event under the theme “Bloom Where You Are Planted.” This event aims to inspire female employees to continue thriving professionally and personally. Additionally, the company is launching a new virtual programme called ElevateHER, which will feature monthly power-hour sessions designed to keep women motivated and “fill their cup.”
Another significant initiative is the partnership with site clinics to focus on women’s health.
Financial Strategies for Gender Equality
In her role as CFO, Kerry ensures that financial decisions align with the company’s commitment to gender equality and empowerment. Rainbow invests in programs that support women’s education, entrepreneurship, and leadership development. Initiatives like the Basadi Bareka program, which supports female employees on their journey toward leadership roles, are a testament to the company’s dedication to fostering a diverse and inclusive workforce.
Looking to the Future
Kerry’s vision for the future is simple: equal representation for women in all aspects of the business. She believes that gender equality is a target to be met and a strategic advantage that can enhance the company’s performance and competitiveness. “By promoting a culture of diversity and inclusion and creating a culture of mentorship and sponsorship, I see the role of women in business flourishing over the next decade,” she predicts.
Continuing to advocate for women’s empowerment and leadership, Kerry’s journey inspires many. Her story is a powerful reminder that while progress has been made, much work remains to be done to achieve true gender equality in the corporate world.
“Believe in yourself and your value. Don’t be afraid to challenge the norms and the status quo. Women need to support and build each other up,” Kerry advises young women aspiring to leadership positions.