The Southern African Association of Freight Forwarders NPC (SAAFF) announced the appointment of Sherrol Lacey as its first Chief Operating Officer (COO) - an important step in its ongoing evolutionary programme.
This development reflects a natural progression in SAAFF’s growth journey – building on a strong foundation to further mature, modernise and expand its operating model, in line with the increasing complexity and expectations of the logistics environment.
The COO portfolio will directly support the organisation’s strategic and developmental priorities. As the operating environment becomes more complex and unpredictable for cargo movement and sudden shifts in the regulatory framework become the norm, better integration, digital transformation and strong operational performance are essential.
Sherrol has 30 years of experience in logistics and freight forwarding, with expertise spanning Air, Ocean and Contract Logistics and a distinguished track record managing business systems transformation, process optimisation and digitalisation programmes regionally. While exceeding performance targets, with focus on building high-impact teams and capabilities within difficult logistics environments - delivering measurable business impact.
Prior to her appointment, Sherrol served as Head of Air & Ocean Processes & Systems for Sub-Saharan Africa at DB Schenker, where she led regional systems strategy, process optimisation and digital integration initiatives across multiple markets.
“Sherrol’s appointment reflects SAAFF’s strategic priorities at a critical time for the industry, where integrated systems, digital transformation and stronger operational performance are essential to increasing alignment and enabling deeper member participation. SAAFF remains focused on its mandate to interconnect stakeholders, and influence policy in support of growth and legitimate trade, while continuing to raise standards across the freight and logistics ecosystem,” explains SAAFF.
“I am very excited to take on this role at such a pivotal time. Together with our members and stakeholders, we will advance system modernisation and operational excellence to reinforce the strategic positioning of freight forwarding and logistics as key drivers of economic growth, employment creation and to ultimately impact SA Inc.’s competitive position in global trade.
“My 360˚view is a position of advantage, as I enjoy a dual perspective having served as a regional representative of SAAFF in the Eastern Cape for a number of years, as well as the member experience of the association’s extensive services and representation.”
SAAFF’s evolving role as a catalyst for industry transformation, demands high energy and expertise. Sherrol is a top performing professional, a good fit as a highly effective team leader and seasoned industry professional.