9th April 2025

The Vineyard Hotel

___________________________________

Critical Conversations

in Staffing*

s

APSO Annual Staffing and Recruitment Conference.

We are delighted to share that we will be hosting the World Employment Conference (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 – Shaping the Future of Staffing”.

PREMIER BUSINESS PARTNER

#WHY ATTEND

Why you should attend.

Networking

You will have the opportunity to connect and collaborate with industry professionals, forging valuable relationships that can lead to new partnerships, career opportunities, and a broader professional network.

Have Fun

Beyond the enriching learning experience, our conference offers a lively and enjoyable atmosphere where attendees can unwind, relax, and have a great time.

Great Speakers

Renowned experts and thought leaders in the field of staffing and recruitment will share their insights, strategies, and best practices, providing attendees with invaluable knowledge and inspiration to enhance their recruitment efforts.

New People

APSO Annual Staffing and Recruitment Conference attracts a diverse group of professionals from various industries and backgrounds, offering a unique 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.

Drinks & Canapés

17h00 – 19h00   (Sponsored by MODERN CENTRIC)

12

Visionary Speakers

350

Event Participants

15

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

Detailed programme > 2023 Conference Brochure

“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

Bettina is President of the World Employment Confederation. In addition to her role as President, Bettina also heads the Group Public Affairs of the Adecco Group. Bettina will share insights on the latest information on the future of work and work readiness solutions to advance innovative, inclusive and collaborative growth.
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

Johnny is engaged at the forefront of the changing labour law landscape at NEDLAC level.  He will share the latest updates impacting our sector, discuss prominent indicators and potential future challenges in our industry. As CEO of CAPES, Johnny will share our industries state of readiness to take on these challenges.
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.

 

 

Morning Session

Zanele Luvuno

“Own your authenticity and recognise it as a lever for career success” – Zanele Luvuno

Zanele will explore the importance of practicing authenticity and why this is important in every aspect of recruiting. By being your authentic self, you build credibility and trust, vital ingredients to achieving success.

Profile

With over two decades of experience in authenticity coaching, talent acquisition, executive search, and partner profiling, Zanele Luvuno, the CEO and founder of Metamorphosis Integrated Solutions, is a true expert in the people space. Her authenticity-driven approach sets her apart, allowing her to uncover hidden innovations and offer valuable opportunities encouraging individuals to “own their authenticity and recognise it as a lever for career success”. Zanele has successfully placed and coached individuals at all levels, gaining invaluable insights into workplace challenges. She understands the gap between organizations’ value propositions and the reality faced by employees, sharing her expertise through radio appearances and published articles.

Afternoon Session

Dr Frank Magwegwe

Experience the extraordinary journey of resilience with our distinguished speaker from Gordon Institute of Business Science (GIBS). In the final keynote of the day, leave inspired by Dr. Mags’ remarkable journey and learn how to cultivate RESILIENCE in your own life and in that of your team. WEF Skills of the Future 2025

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 

Denis Pennel

MD of the World Employment Confederation (WEC) Influencer, Keynote Speaker & Author of several books on the Changing World of Work and Executive Director of the World Employment Confederation will share global perspectives during the panel discussions and breakaway sessions.

Profile

With 25 years of experience as a Labour Market  and IR specialist, Denis is a distinguished professional, a renowned author and sought-after keynote speaker in HR and Management. Recognized as a top global thought leader, he has published thought-provoking articles and actively participated in think tanks.  As the Managing Director of the World Employment Confederation since 2005, he is responsible developing and executing strategies to represent the HR Services industry internationally. Denis’s insights, honed through corporate and consulting roles, cover the future of work, governmental affairs, HR, and staffing.

Afternoon Session

Khani Mhlongo

“Living intentionally a purpose-driven life ” A board member of 2 organisations namely, the Federation of African Professional Staffing Organizations (APSO) and National Skills Authority (NSA). Khani will chair an insightful panel discussion on “Balancing Human Interaction with Technological Efficiency”

Profile

A seasoned HR professional with 18 years management & leadership experience providing strategic HR business partnering to Business Leaders, developed people strategic plans, led HR teams, and ensured competent teams to deliver people business operating plans successfully and facilitated change & transformational initiatives. A licensed Insights Discovery Practitioner. Founder of  Think Career™ Holdings an emerging and next generation talent acquisition solutions and consulting firm operating in South Africa and Sub-Saharan & Career Indaba™ is an employment network online radio station broadcasting for Africa.

Afternoon Session

Charles Cameron

In this break-away session, Charles will discuss the business case for the retained services model. Join him as he shares his knowledge and information on how to generate more revenue, attract better candidates and deliver effective results for clients. 

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 

Natalie Singer

Recruiters using a consultative approach, leveraging insight, and intuition, build strong, lasting relationships with clients and candidates. Natalie shares practical tips to become a trusted partner to clients, facilitating the identification, recruitment, and retention of top talent that adds enduring value to businesses.

Profile

Natalie Singer, a BA Communications & English graduate, is a distinguished leader in the staffing industry. She served as CEO of APSO and received accolades like the SACCI Association of the Year Award in 2011. Natalie’s career highlights include advocating for industry recognition, labor law amendments, and navigating the Fourth Industrial Revolution’s impact on South Africa. As a co-material developer and facilitator for the CAPES WITS specialist staffing programs, she has empowered numerous individuals to enhance their value in the job market. Natalie’s commitment to progress continues as she drives compliance and job creation initiatives in collaboration with various organizations, including Business Unity South Africa (BUSA).

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

John Healy

John is a seasoned workforce solutions expert, known for his global impact on labor markets.  A futurist and chair of the Digitalization Taskforce, he focuses on seamless work connections through digital wallets, blockchain, ethical AI, and platforms. John will share his insights in the panel discussions.

Profile

Vice President
World Employment Confederation

 Having spent more than thirty years developing and deploying workforce solutions in labour markets throughout the world, John is a recognized thought leader and practitioner in the evolving world of work. 

In his role as Vice President of the World Employment Confederation, he actively advocates for labour markets that enable work, prosperity, security, and adaptation.  As a futurist within the industry, he also chairs the World Employment Confederation’s Taskforce on Digitalisation, a group intent on removing friction from the process of connecting people with work, with areas of focus including the role of digital wallets and blockchain, the ethical use of AI, and the role of platforms.

Today, John is an independent contractor, representing Kelly within the World Employment Confederation, while also serving as an Expert in Residence at Open Assembly. He is a life-long learner, with passion in areas ranging from the future of work, open innovation, consumer behaviors, people analytics, and the role of education in achieving human agility.

Afternoon Session

Bev Jack

A past deputy chairperson of the National Skills Authority (NSA), in 2023, she presently serves as the Exco member representing Business on the Employment Services Board, is a board member of Productivity South Africa and the Business lead on the NEDLAC Decent Work Country Programme (DWCP). 

Profile

Through CAPES, the Confederation of Associations in the Private Employment Sector, Bev Jack represents BUSA, Business Unity South Africa, at various institutes; representing business both nationally and internationally. Originally qualifying as a school teacher, and throughout a long career in the corporate world, which included working in a leadership capacity for a listed entity, she has retained a passion for skills development and life-long learning.

Afternoon Session

Jaintheran Naidoo

Agility is essential for adapting to rapid changes in today’s dynamic business environment to ensure relevance and competitiveness. Join Jaintheran as he delves into this concept and explores whether agility is a learned behaviour and if our agility can be measured.

Profile

Jaintheran Naidoo is a registered industrial/ organisational psychologist with over 18 years of experience within the IO space. He has experience in various areas, including both the private and public sectors. His areas of passion lie in management/ leadership development, training facilitation and talent management strategy. His work has taken him around world, where he has facilitated HR interventions in countries such as Australia, Malaysia, Hong Kong and Mauritius.

Afternoon Session

Farhad Bhyat

The Human Touch in a Digital World: Balancing AI and Human Expertise in Recruitment & HR, is a timely topic that is relevant to many HR professionals. The use of AI in recruitment and HR is growing rapidly, and there is a lot of debate about the role of humans in this process. Join Farhad as he explores the benefits and challenges of using AI for HR professionals, and how to find the right balance between AI and human expertise.

Profile

Experienced Chief Executive Officer with a demonstrated history of working in the information services industry. Skilled in Negotiation, Sales, Operating Budgets, Market Research, and Management. A strong business development professional, business owner, entrepreneur, and gym fanatic.

I have ample experience in Business Development, Sales, and Marketing, but my most recent pursuit and passion project are Farosian, a company set to tackle the many problems presented by the rise of social and digital media. Farosian has blossomed into a truly unique company unparalleled in what we offer the world.

 

Afternoon Session

Sasha Knott

Sasha Knott will be participating in the panel discussion: Balancing Human Interaction with Technological Efficiency. Where she will share her passion for entrepreneurship and combining this with technology that works for the customer and often disrupts industries. 

Profile

Sasha Knott, the CEO of Job Crystal, started her career in IT and advanced from there, finding her passion for entrepreneurship and combining this with technology that works for the customer and often disrupts industries. Sasha’s current goal is to make job seekers’ lives easier while helping SMEs find talent fast and effortlessly, saving them both time and energy! Job Crystal’s new system, Crystal AI, combines RecTech, AI, machine learning, and UX functionality making it easy to find the needle in the haystack for SMEs looking for talent. The vision is to #make a dent in unemployment (watch this space)!

 

Afternoon Session

Henneri Crous

Join Henneri in his talk on Tech-Driven Excellence: Mastering the 5 Critical Points of Talent Management. (Master Tech-Driven Talent Management: 5 Critical points you can excel at).

Profile

Henneri Crous is an experienced employer branding, recruitment process optimization, and candidate onboarding specialist, with a heart for helping companies build strong, effective teams. He has dedicated his career to improving the recruitment and onboarding processes for both employers and employees. 

As an employer branding specialist, Henneri knows that the key to attracting top talent is creating a compelling employer brand that sets the business apart from its competition. 

He, therefore, devotes time to developing and implementing effective branding strategies that communicate an organisation’s unique culture, values, and mission so that it can attract and retain the right people.

 

Afternoon Session

Karl Smith

Join Karl as he delves into the AI world and how this impacts on creating future-fit professionals. He will share strategies to embrace new technologies, improve efficiencies and effectiveness thereby creating greater value for your clients.

.

Profile

Karl has worked in complex stakeholder environments. He has extensive experience gained from various roles in higher education, accountancy education implementation, working with various stakeholders, marketing and offering training programmes for some of South Africa’s large and small corporate companies and professional organisations in the private sector.

He is responsible for leading The South African Institute of Professional Accountants (SAIPAs) Education, Training and Membership Support Unit to ensure the effective implementation of initial qualification through to the essential continuing professional development , compliance and contributing to strategy development and implementation.

 

Afternoon Session

Richard Wahlquist

Richard will share his insights on the panel discussion – Global Country Perspectives and in the status and future of our industry. 

Profile

Richard Wahlquist is Chief Executive Officer of the American Staffing Association, the voice of the U.S. staffing, recruiting, and workforce solutions industry. ASA promotes the interests of the industry across all sectors through advocacy, research, education, and the promotion of high standards of legal, ethical, and professional practices.

Wahlquist is a member of the board of directors of the World Employment Confederation, representing the employment and talent solutions industry at the global level. He is also on the executive committee and board of directors of Jobs for America’s Graduates, a national organization that has helped more than 1.7 million at risk students graduate and go on to success in careers and in their lives.

Afternoon Session

Geraldine King

Geraldine’s beliefs and vision are that the recruitment sector should have a full academic career path to retain and attract talent.

She will share her insights on the panel discussion on – A Global Country Perspective – An update on the status and future of the industry.

Profile

Geraldine King is Chief Executive at The Employment & Recruitment Federation (ERF) and a board member of The World Employment Confederation (WEC).

She is listed for the 5th year running in Staffing Industry Analysts top 100 EU leaders and in the top 150 Global power Women. She is a regular Global awards adjudicator and sits on the external advisory board for the digitalisation reform of public sector jobs in Ireland.

Geraldine has been instrumental in the success of the government award of the first under graduate 3 year degree apprenticeship programme for recruiters in partnership with the National College of Ireland. She developed the only certificate programme for recruiters for Irish recruiters and has successfully led the ERF to obtain their own Skillnet (a government funding programme to assist in the training and upskilling of ERF members and their clients).

Afternoon Session

Ayanda Mzondeki

Ayanda is a driven businesswoman who is intentional about supporting other women entrepreneurs.

She will share her insights on the panel discussion on – A Global Country Perspective – An update on the status and future of the industry.

Profile

Ayanda is the co-founder & Managing Director of Liyema Consulting, a company that offers tech-driven human capital solutions. After 8 years in the human resources industry, Ayanda co-founded Liyema Consulting in 2012 to create an alternative that is people-centered.
She is an Executive Director of AfroFuture Tech; Director at Dazzle Angels; Dazzle at Impact Ray; Member of WEConnect International SA WBE Council and a WPO (Women Presidents Organisation) member.
Ayanda is a driven businesswoman who is intentional about supporting other women entrepreneurs.
Graduated from the Goldman Sachs-GIBS 10 000 Women Certification Programme, 2014 and alumni of the EY Winning Women, 2016.
She is currently enrolled in the FWPO Leadership for Business Acceleration Program at Harvard Business Publishing.

#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

Hurry whilst seats last!

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.

APSO MEMBERS

R3500

    • Attendance in person
    • Networking Opportunities
    • Lunch, Tea & Coffee
    • Drinks & Canapé post conference
    • Exhibitor Stands
    • Amazing prizes & give-aways
    • Online Certificate
    • 12 CPD Points

 

 

 

APSO MEMBERS

R2 900 Early Bird

  • Attendance in person 
  • Networking Opportunities
  • Lunch, Tea & Coffee
  • Drinks & Canapé post conference
  • Exhibitor Stands 
  • Amazing prizes & give-aways
  • Online Certificate
  • 12 CPD Points

APSO MEMBERS

Group Price

R2 700
Three or more
    • Attendance in person
    • Networking Opportunities
    • Lunch, Tea & Coffee
    • Drinks & Canapé post conference
    • Exhibitor Stands
    • Amazing prizes & give-aways
    • Online Certificate
    • 12 CPD Points 

 

NON MEMBERS

R4 500

    • Attendance in person
    • Networking Opportunities
    • Lunch, Tea & Coffee
    • Drinks & Canapé post conference
    • Exhibitor Stands
    • Amazing prizes & give-aways

 

 

 

NON MEMBERS

R3 800!

  • Attendance in person 
  • Networking Opportunities
  • Lunch, Tea & Coffee
  • Drinks & Canapé post conference
  • Exhibitor Stands 
  • Amazing prizes & give-aways

NON MEMBERS

Group Price

POA
    • Attendance in person
    • Networking Opportunities
    • Lunch, Tea & Coffee
    • Drinks & Canapé post conference
    • Exhibitor Stands
    • Amazing prizes & give-aways

#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. PARTY!

Immediately following the conference, please join us for Canapés and Drinks on the 1st floor balcony from 5:00pm onwards. This event is sponsored and hosted by CAPES. Wonderful networking opportunity with speakers and participants .

9
April 2025

9:00 – 17:00

Post-Conference Drinks:

17:00 to 19:00

The Vineyard

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 84 410 1120

Email: skhumbuzod@apso.org.za