Mary-Jane Morifi

Mary-Jane Morifi 
Chief Corporate Affairs and Sustainability Officer, Tiger Brands
South Africa

With a career spanning more than 30 years Mary Jane, who joined Tiger Brands in 2016 as the Chief Corporate Affairs and Sustainability Officer, has tackled some of SA’s toughest socio-economic challenges. With a deep passion for the empowerment of women and youth, as well as economic emancipation through job creation, supplier development and community development, Mary Jane has championed numerous initiatives that contribute to the betterment of society. This includes Tiger Brands’ smallholder farmer development programme which focuses on increasing the number of black commercial farmers who supply produce to Tiger Brands. The programme also provides farmers with technical assistance, agricultural input, off-take agreements, and guarantees a market for fresh produce. It’s a winning formula that has allowed for these farmers, half of whom are women, to turn a profit while Tiger Brands gains access to locally sourced produce.

Among her key numerous achievements, she led the fundraising for the establishment of the Nelson Mandela Children’s Hospital. Prior to this she was the Head of Corporate Affairs at numerous corporate organisations.

Her desire to contribute positively to society has led to numerous recognitions. Among her significant academic achievements was her visiting fellowship at Harvard University in the 80s. She is a trustee of the Tiger Brands Foundation, the chairperson of the Open Society Foundation in South Africa and the deputy chairperson of The Black Sash Trust amongst others.