9th April 2025
The Vineyard Hotel
___________________________________
Critical Conversations*
APSO Annual Staffing and Recruitment Conference.
We are delighted to share that we will be hosting the World Employment Confederation (WEC) for their 2-day international event during our conference week.
On the APSO Day (9th April 2025), we will host the WEC delegates at our event. We look forward to their insights and participation in the “Critical Conversations”.
The conference will be followed by an Awards Gala Evening. Click below for more booking info.
APSO Awards Gala Evening – Book Now!
#WHY ATTEND
Why you should attend.

Global Perspective
Engage with thought leaders from around the world to uncover international trends and best practices that can redefine your staffing strategies.
Disruptive Strategies
Participate in dynamic sessions that focus on cutting-edge technologies and approaches to recruitment, ensuring you’re at the forefront of industry evolution.
Connect & Develop
Connect with a diverse group of professionals, fostering relationships that transcend borders and industries.
Participate
Share insights on creating engaging employee experiences that drive retention and performance, with a focus on international trends in employee engagement.
APSO & WEC Awards Gala
18h00 – 23h00
9
Visionary Speakers
250
Event Participants
50
Event Exhibitors
#PROGRAMME DETAILS
Information on Event Schedule

We have a dynamic lineup of keynote speakers, panel discussions, interactive breakaways, and networking sessions designed to foster meaningful connections and create a supportive community. Collaborate with like-minded professionals, exchange ideas, and learn from one another’s experiences to overcome common staffing and recruitment hurdles.
Attendees will be able to customise their own programme by selecting from a variety of sessions on offer.
Check our programme below.
Conference Programme
“Subject to Changes and Finalisation without prior notice”
Sponsors & Exhibitors
The exhibitors at our recruitment conference are a who’s who of the industry. They represent the latest and greatest in recruitment technology, talent acquisition services, and HR solutions. Whether you’re looking for a new applicant tracking system, a way to improve your sourcing process, or help with your onboarding program, you’ll find it at the recruitment conference.

08.30 – 17.30

Themba Robin
Themba Robin is a South African comedic talent and skilled MC, renowned for his ability to engage and entertain audiences. With his quick wit and infectious energy, Themba will guide us through this reflective exploration of the recruitment industry, infusing the days’ proceedings with his unique blend of humour and professionalism.
Profile
Themba Robin is a South African comedic talent and skilled MC, renowned for his ability to engage and entertain audiences. With his quick wit and infectious energy, Themba has become a sought-after figure in the comedy scene. As the chosen MC for the annual recruitment and staffing conference in Johannesburg, he will guide us through this reflective exploration of the recruitment industry, infusing the days’ proceedings with his unique blend of humour and professionalism.
Morning Session

Zakhele Mgobhozi
Zakhele, the APSO President, will be delivering our opening address. Get ready to be inspired as we embark on this exciting journey of learning and collaboration. Zakhele will welcome delegates, speakers, industry stakeholders and international guests and introduce us to the themes for the day.
Profile
Zakhele Mgobhozi is the Founder & Managing Director of Modern Centric Holdings, a specialist Management Consultancy that advocates for Persons with dis-Abilities (PWD’s) and the Youth of South Africa; Modern dis-Ability Foundation, an NPC focusing on the needs of Persons with dis-Abilities; and Executive Director of Modern Centric Solutions.
Morning Session

Bettina Schaller
Profile
Bettina Schaller, President of the World Employment Confederation (WEC), is a distinguished leader in the field of global employment. With roles including Vice-Chair of the OECD BIAC ELSA Committee, Member of the B20 Future of Work and Education Task Force, and Steering Group Member on the World Economic Forum’s “Centre for New Economy and Society,” Bettina drives impactful initiatives. She is a renowned advocate for board diversity as a Founding Member of “The Boardroom” and has been recognized as an influential figure in the staffing industry, earning prestigious titles such as “Staffing 100 Europe Influencer” and “Global Power 100 – Women in Staffing.” Bettina heads Group Public Affairs of the Adecco Group, headquartered in Zurich, Switzerland.
Morning Session

Jonathan Goldberg
Profile
Jonathan is the Chairman of Global Business Solutions, bringing extensive qualifications and several decades of experience in labor law. He excels in leading negotiations at multiple levels, including plant, industry, and NEDLAC. As a trusted advisor, he helps clients navigate the ever-changing regulatory landscape. With key roles in various organizations and active involvement across industries, Johnny’s expertise shines through strategic interventions, presentations, and his sought-after status as an advisor, speaker, and lecturer.
Afternoon Session

Charles Cameron
Charles Cameron returns to discuss the evolution of recruitment and staffing firm commercial models and how they can enhance your relationship with clients, whilst protecting your bottom line. Charles will be joined by the Managing Director of ManpowerGroup Australia, Penny O’Reilly, and CEO of the REC in the UK, Neil Carberry, to discuss how markets are changing in Australia and the UK, how firms are responding and how commercial models are adapting. Not to be missed.
Profile
Shaper of the New World of Work
Join us at the upcoming conference where industry expert Charles brings over 20 years of invaluable experience in the recruitment and staffing sector. As Chief Executive of RCSA and Vice President of the World Employment Confederation, He is a passionate advocate for professional labor market intermediaries and advisers. With a proven track record in economics, risk management, compliance, and workplace law, Charles will share practical insights on the journey to developing a retained service module. Don’t miss the opportunity to gain valuable insights and knowledge.
Greg Savage is a proponent of this model and says “The powerful irony is that a retained approach not only benefits the recruiter, it has huge advantages for the client, and crucially, the candidates. Everyone wins with retained”
Afternoon Session

Neil Carberry
In the panel discussion, Neil will share unique insights on the concept of “Tech-enabled humanity”. Content from this paper, published by the REC*, will prompt participants to think about how technology will change their recruitment businesses and how to react to ensure that they thrive in this digital landscape.
Profile
CEO at the REC, the leading membership organisation for recruitment/staffing firms and individual recruiters. As a £35bn part of the UK’s professional services sector, brilliant recruiters change our economy and do the same for candidates’ lives – making great work happen everyday. At REC, we speak up for our fantastic sector, hold to professional standards and help firms and individual recruiters grow and understand the changing demands of the market. Non-Exec at Acas and Primary Academy Trust Director. Member of the Low Pay Commission 2014-21. RFU L2 qualified coach. Heart of Midlothian tragic.
Afternoon Session

James Osborne
James’ sole objective is to enable recruitment leaders to build and scale highly profitable recruitment businesses and maximise shareholder value.
He will share his insights in the critical conversations of – Future Fit Recruitment Businesses and Multi-Generational Workforce.
Profile
James is an award-winning business consultant, advisor and entrepreneur, with an international board-level background in the staffing and recruitment sector, ultimately as GM within one of the largest HR and Recruitment service providers in Australia.
As Chairman of The Recruitment Network, James works with recruitment business leaders, helping them to achieve significant growth, performance improvement and competitive advantages acting as a Non-Executive Director, consultant, trainer and strategist for numerous fast-growth recruitment businesses. James was awarded an Honorary Fellowship by the ERF in 2022 and is now also an Ambassador for the Recruitment of Apprentices.
Afternoon Session

Tabea Tshesane
Tabea Kabinde, a PhD candidate, boasts more than 20 years of experience in Diversity, Inclusion, and Transformation.
She will share how Conscious Capitalism as a business philosophy can facilitate DEI in the workplace and provide practical examples of a win-win-win business environment for employers, employees, communities, shareholders, and the environment.
Profile
Tabea Kabinde , a PhD candidate, boasts a wealth of experience exceeding 20 years within the realm of Diversity, Inclusion, and Transformation.
Her journey commenced by being part of the team spearheading the diversity management and inclusion initiatives within the South African National Defence Force (SANDF) during the consolidation of the different armed forces at the onset of democracy.
Subsequently, she transitioned to ABSA, where she contributed to the facilitation of Management of Diversity programs and other organisational development initiatives. Later, she ventured into independent consultancy focused on this field as well as in recruitment and training.
Afternoon Session

Dr Magwegwe
We welcome Dr Mags to the panel discussion on various topics including DEI, Technology and Green Jobs.
Be inspired by Dr. Mags’ remarkable journey and learn how to cultivate RESILIENCE in your own life and your team. WEF Skills of the Future
Profile
Experience the extraordinary journey of resilience with our distinguished speaker from the University of Pretoria’s Gordon Institute of Business Science (GIBS). From overcoming homelessness and financial hardships to emerging as a Harvard graduate, our speaker, affectionately known as “Dr. Mags,” embodies the power of resilience.
Discover the captivating story of his fight against invisibility, and how he transformed adversity into an unwavering spirit of hope, courage, and compassion. Join us at the conference to be inspired by Dr. Mags’ remarkable journey and learn how to cultivate resilience in your own life and in that of your team.
Afternoon Session

Adam Hawkins
A strategic thought leader and keynote speaker focused on partnering with the recruitment industry to shape talent solutions that elevate the opportunities on offer to workers in a dynamic and fast-changing world.
Profile
Adam has spent 25 years working in executive roles across the full recruitment/talent ecosystem, advising on strategy, sitting on company boards, and leading international, cohesive high-performing teams across diverse global markets. He joined LinkedIn seven years ago as an industry champion, supporting our recruitment clients to deliver greater value across hiring, learning and employee engagement alongside the world’s largest professional network.
Passionate about embracing innovation and working with talent solutions businesses as they step up to deliver meaningful impact for employers navigating complexity and change. There has never been a bigger opportunity for recruitment professionals to drive progress and lead the conversation on the future of work, skills, and technology. His days are spent advocating for the industry and facilitating collaboration in line with LinkedIn’s vision of creating economic opportunity for every member of the global workforce.
Throughout his career Adam has prioritised leading large global teams with clarity, trust, and integrity. He is an intuitive coach, mentor, and sponsor with a strong belief that leadership is a privilege, and performance is driven by giving our teams great experiences, engagement, and room to grow.
Adam is proud to be working to inspire and influence the future of talent, embracing new technologies and bringing people together to drive powerful dialogue as we shape the road ahead.0
Afternoon Session

Audrey Lartey
Audrey Lartey and Adam Hawkins from LinkedIn will explore how recruitment leaders can shift from filling roles to shaping workforce strategy, using AI and data to strengthen their impact.
Profile
I have spent the last 16 years working across a range of global businesses building and developing marketing programs that build brand profile and drive engagement to support revenue goals. And I have loved every moment of it.
I now get the opportunity to take all of this rich experience and combine it with the LinkedIn platform to design customised talent solutions to support business growth for a range of clients.
Afternoon Session

Ross Stewart
Ross Stewart is a transformative leader with a global vision, focused on addressing complex workforce challenges and driving economic growth. He has dedicated the last 15 years to empowering individuals and organisations across the African continent.
Profile
Throughout his career, Ross has been instrumental in navigating global employment challenges by leveraging collaborative partnerships and innovative strategies. His expertise lies in connecting Africa’s vast talent pool with the increasing global demand for digital skills, ensuring
that Africa’s youth are at the forefront of the future of work.
As the Founder & CEO of Global Careers Africa, he continues to champion initiatives that create meaningful, scalable job opportunities across Africa. Already operating in South Africa, Kenya, Rwanda, and Nigeria, his unwavering commitment to shaping the future of work has
positioned him as a catalyst for positive change on a global scale.
Afternoon Session

Uzo Eziukwu
Uzo strongly believes that technology is capable of radically improving the socio-economic plight of Africa. Driven by the notion that business and conscience should remain intricately connected, he is passionate about innovation, employment creation, mentorship and team building.
Profile
He founded Parkway Projects in 2004. The fin-tech has developed renowned platforms for automating revenue collections, payments and banking for government institutions, businesses and individuals across Africa.
He has since then worked tirelessly to develop business models, technology solutions and focused vehicles to promote tech-driven transformation in high-impact sectors. This resulted in the creation of four other sector-leading companies; HealthStation for health in 2012, Outsource Global for business process outsourcing in 2013, Bluetag Technologies for education in 2014 and Bluetag Synergy for oil and gas in 2015; employing 800+ graduates.
He serves as Group CEO of Bluetag Group, a holding company for the tech-companies, from where he provides strategic leadership.
A graduate of Electronic Engineering from the University of Nigeria Nsukka, Uzo’s core strengths lie in business strategy, business and financial modelling, project management, team building and mentoring.
Afternoon Session

Amal Hassan
Amal Hassan is a prominent technopreneur and the Founder & CEO of Outsource Global, Nigeria’s leading business process outsourcing company. Under her leadership, the company has grown to over 2,000 employees across four locations, serving clients in Africa, the US, the UK, and Japan.
Profile
Passionate about unlocking Nigeria’s potential through technology, Amal focuses on creating jobs and promoting diversity, with 50% of her workforce being women.
She has been globally recognized, including being named one of Fortune’s “16 Most Promising Women Leaders” in 2018 and serving on the National Council for Digital Innovation and Entrepreneurship. Outsource Global has earned prestigious awards, such as the UNWOMEN Private Sector Excellence Award (2022) and Best Sectoral Exporter Award (2022). As the Co-founder of Bluetag Group, Amal also drives innovation across multiple sectors and leads the Outsource to Nigeria Initiative, advocating for Nigeria’s outsourcing industry. She is a role model for women, especially in northern Nigeria, and continues to mentor young leaders.
Afternoon Session

Lira
Lira is a South African multi-platinum-selling singer, songwriter, speaker, entrepreneur and author.
She penned an autobiography titled Making Herstory in 2013 and this led to her being invited as a
keynote speaker at various platforms. In 2020 she was a speaker at The Forbes Women in Leadership summit.
Profile
Lira is a South African multi-platinum selling singer, songwriter, speaker, entrepreneur and author.
Well respected and renowned for her positive music and spectacular live performances, Lira’s career
spans over 20 years with 6 albums, 4 live DVDs and a documentary series. She has released albums in
Italy, Thailand, North America and her last album, launched under her own record label Otarel Music,
was released world-wide.
Lira is dedicated to keeping her music inspirational and uplifting because she believes the world needs
more positivity. Her brand represents her African heritage, self-acceptance, excellence and breaking
boundaries.
She penned an autobiography titled Making Herstory in 2013 and this led to her being invited as a
keynote speaker at various entrepreneurial, women empowerment, as well as spiritual platforms. In
2020 she was a speaker at The Forbes Women in Leadership summit.
In 2021 Lira became an instructor on the online platform My Mastery, teaching the art of singing and
performance. Lira’s 13-episode masterclass teaches you how to find your inner voice as well as your
own way in the world, guiding you on how to find your balance and build your confidence, fostering
personal growth beyond the stage.
Whilst in Frankfurt, Germany for a performance in March 2022, Lira suffered a stroke which left her
unable to read, write or speak.
Lira’s recovery has been nothing short of miraculous, considering she was in Germany on her own and
only got to a hospital 19 hours after the stroke.
Since the stroke Lira has worked tirelessly on regaining her speech and relearning how to read and
write. With the speech therapy in Germany being in English, Lira
Afternoon Session

Penny O'Reilly
Penny O’Reilly is a highly respected leader and influencer within the Australian and New Zealand Recruitment Industry.
Since joining the Recruitment Industry over two decades ago, Penny has worked at an operational, strategic, and executive level to support thousands of organisations across Australia and New Zealand design, build, implement, and manage successful recruitment programs.
Profile
In 2021, Penny was appointed to the global leadership team of ManpowerGroup. As Managing Director of ManpowerGroup Australia, Penny holds overall responsibility for the ongoing growth, success, and strategic direction of the ManpowerGroup Australia operation.
Penny is passionate about the Recruitment Industry. As a Board Director and Vice President for the Recruitment & Consulting Services Association (RCSA), the peak body for recruitment professionals and employment consultants across Australia and New Zealand since 2015, Penny is actively involved in supporting the Industry and the RCSA members.
Penny is a deeply engaging leader with demonstrated success in building businesses that deliver sustainable profit. She is a firm believer in enabling people to achieve their potential and a strong industry advocate. Penny is also a regular commentator on recruitment strategy, diversity and inclusion, people management and leadership issues within the Australian and New Zealand market.
Penny completed a Bachelor of Business & Management at the University of Newcastle and holds certification from the Australian Institute of Company Directors.
On a personal level, Penny lives in Sydney, enjoys baking, loves a good crim

Exciting News!
Stay tuned for exciting additions to the Conference Speaker Lineup and breakout sessions as we finalize the programme.
#GET EXPERIENCE
Shift your perspective on business

This conference will attract a diverse group of professionals from various industries and backgrounds, offering a unique perspective and opportunity to meet new people, exchange ideas, and gain fresh perspectives that can broaden one’s horizons and inspire innovation in staffing and recruitment practices.
#PRICING PLANS
Tickets Now On Sale
Limited Number of Seats Available!
Talk to us to see if you qualify for a DISCOUNTED TICKET PRICE

Get ready for an enlightening and transformative experience that will shape your future success.
#PRICING PLANS
APSO Conference
APSO MEMBERS
Fully Booked
- Attendance in person
- Networking Opportunities
- Lunch, Tea & Coffee
- Exhibitor Stands
- Amazing prizes & giveaways
- Online Certificate
- Earn 12 CPD Points
APSO MEMBERS
Fully Booked
- Attendance in person
- Networking Opportunities
- Lunch, Tea & Coffee
- Exhibitor Stands
- Amazing prizes & giveaways
- Online Certificate
- Earn 12 CPD Points
APSO MEMBERS
Group Price
Fully Booked
Three or more
- Attendance in person
- Networking Opportunities
- Lunch, Tea & Coffee
- Exhibitor Stands
- Amazing prizes & giveaways
- Online Certificate
- Earn 12 CPD Points
NON MEMBERS
SOLD OUT! SOLD OUT POA
Early Bird Normal Price Group Price
#PRICING PLANS
There is a Special Concession if you want to attend the WEC Events. Limited Tickets are available.
Subject to APSO Conference attendance.
About the WEC Conference
The World Employment Conference 2025 is a global gathering for HR professionals and industry leaders. It will take place in Cape Town, South Africa, and focus on the future of work. The conference offers opportunities for networking, knowledge sharing, and benchmarking. Attendees can gain insights into the latest HR trends, discuss innovative practices, and forge partnerships to shape the future of the industry. It will run on Tuesday 8th April and Thursday 10th of April.
APSO MEMBERS
R3 500
Tuesday 8th
- To Book Please Email Your Expression Of Interest to events@apso.org.za
- 10 CPD Points
APSO MEMBERS
R3 500
Thursday 10th
- To Book Please Email Your Expression Of Interest to events@apso.org.za
- 10 CPD Points
#WHO HELPS US
Our Sponsors

Meet our sponsors who are essential to the success of the conference. They help to make the conference possible and provide valuable support to the conference content.
#GET DIRECTIONS
The Conference Venue

- Venue
The Vineyard Cape Town - Address
Colinton Road
Newlands
Cape Town
7700 - Get Directions


Welcome To Cape Town!
We are one of South Africa’s best-loved hotels, maybe because we exist to please those guests who stay with us. Excellent service is our top priority, followed closely by great food, beautiful gardens with views of the eastern slopes of Table Mountain, and merging contemporary interior styling with luxury features in our rooms.
LIGHTS. CAMERA. AWARDS!
Immediately following the conference, please join us for the APSO & WEC awards. This event celebrates excellence in the Recruitment industry for both organizations and individuals. Wonderful networking opportunity with speakers and participants. Further details to follow.
9
April 2025
9:00 – 17:00
The Vineyard
ACCOMODATION BOOKINGS
For those travelling to Cape Town for the Conference and Awards Evening please make use of our Booking link under the Accomodation Bookings Tab. Please note, the accommodation choices cater for both the World Employment Confederation (WEC) and APSO Conference.
Note:
Should you require Airport Transfer, please remember to add the Airport Transfer option, under related products at the bottom of this page, to your cart.
About Us
APSO is dedicated to setting and promoting professional standards that will empower members to grow successful enterprises and deliver excellent service.
Established over 40 years ago, APSO is a proud member of the World Employment Confederation (WEC), CAPES, Services SETA and the Ethics Institute of South Africa,
Our core focus areas are: Advocacy; Professional Development; Business Support; Ethics & Compliance and Best Practice.
General Queries
Quick Connect
Please feel free to reach out to:
Skhumbuzo Dlamini
Cell:+27 63 297 2030
Email: skhumbuzod@apso.org.za