Boasting a unique blend of beach, forest and golf, Zimbali Estate in South Africa’s picturesque province of KwaZulu-Natal offers a living experience that is serene, secure and sustainable. CEO Francois Schoeman, who brings a wealth of experience in strategic management and operational excellence, discusses how this prime location enhances the lifestyle at Zimbali Estate, making it one of the country’s most prestigious residential communities.
Can you tell us about your background and how this led you to BECOMING CEO of Zimbali Estate?
My background is rooted in navigating challenging business landscapes, particularly in the realm of business rescue and restructuring. Although I initially found myself in a different industry, I was thrust into a pivotal role when I was appointed to management of a company that was part of a complex liquidation. Successfully steering that company through a business rescue process was a defining moment in my career.
Following that initial success, I continued to be sought after for similar roles in distressed companies. However, I eventually transitioned into more stable environments where my focus shifted towards elevating already successful entities to become world-renowned. This transition has been driven by my passion for transformative leadership and desire to take organizations from excellence to global recognition.
Now, as the CEO of Zimbali Estate, I aim to apply my expertise in strategic management and operational excellence to advance Zimbali Estate into a distinguished destination. My progression from a more business rescue-focused past to leadership at Zimbali Estate underscores my unwavering dedication to delivering outstanding outcomes in all my endeavours.
What do you hope to bring to the table as CEO of this renowned estate? How would you describe your management style and business philosophy?
As CEO of Zimbali Estate, my vision is to enhance the estate’s distinctive qualities and elevate them to new heights of prominence. I aim to strategically reposition these unique attributes to amplify the brand’s appeal and enrich its offerings to meet elevated standards.
My management approach is characterized by inclusivity, collaboration, and a strong entrepreneurial spirit. I believe in fostering a cohesive team environment where every individual’s contributions are valued and diverse perspectives are embraced. By nurturing creativity and innovation within the team, I intend to drive forward-thinking initiatives that align with Zimbali Estate’s strategic goals and resonate with our discerning clientele.
Can you give us an overview of Zimbali Estate, its history and the vision behind its development?
Zimbali Estate is a prestigious residential estate located on the North Coast of KwaZulu-Natal in South Africa. It spans 456 hectares of lush coastal forest, offering residents and guests a unique blend of luxurious living and natural beauty.
Zimbali Estate was developed with a vision to create a world-class lifestyle and leisure destination that harmonizes with its breathtaking natural surroundings. The development began in the late 1990s, meticulously planned to preserve the indigenous flora and fauna while incorporating sustainable building practices. Over the years, it has grown into a renowned sanctuary that attracts residents and visitors seeking exclusivity, tranquillity, and unparalleled amenities.
The estate boasts a variety of residential options, from opulent villas and spacious family homes to exclusive apartments and luxury hotel accommodations. Each property is designed to blend seamlessly into the landscape, offering panoramic views of the Indian Ocean, our award-winning golf course, or the lush forested hillsides.
Beyond its residential offerings, Zimbali Estate features multiple outdoor recreational facilities, exquisite dining venues, and luxurious spas. These amenities cater to both residents and guests, ensuring a lifestyle that combines relaxation with active pursuits.
The development’s commitment to sustainability is evident in its conservation efforts, including the preservation of wetlands and indigenous vegetation, as well as responsible water and energy management practices. In essence, Zimbali Estate represents a vision of luxury living in harmony with nature, offering a sanctuary where residents and guests can enjoy an unparalleled quality of life amidst breathtaking surroundings.
What are the key elements to consider to ensure the success of a place like Zimbali Estate?
To ensure the success of a place like Zimbali Estate, it is crucial to implement robust and transparent governance frameworks that ensure accountability and fair decision-making, actively engage staff and stakeholders to foster a sense of community and collaboration, and demonstrate bravery and commitment by taking calculated risks for long-term development benefits. Additionally, safeguarding the property investment and ensuring a secure environment are fundamental, involving the implementation of security measures and strategies to maintain and enhance land value. Furthermore, maintaining strong connections with the surrounding community while protecting the estate from negative external influences ensures that it remains an integral part of the broader community, preserving its unique characteristics and strengths.
What about its location – what makes IT special, and how does it enhance the Estate experience?
The location of Zimbali Estate is truly special and significantly enhances the overall experience for our residents. Nestled along the stunning Dolphin Coast in South Africa, Zimbali Estate offers direct access to pristine beaches and the warm Indian Ocean, creating a unique, relaxing, invigorating coastal lifestyle. The sub-tropical climate ensures pleasant weather year-round, perfect for enjoying outdoor activities.
Our estate is also surrounded by lush indigenous forests, providing a natural sanctuary for a diverse array of wildlife. This proximity to nature offers residents a serene and tranquil environment, with opportunities for nature walks, bird watching, and other outdoor pursuits. The blend of coastal and forest environments makes Zimbali Estate a haven for those seeking a harmonious balance with nature.
Additionally, the estate’s location offers convenient access to modern amenities and services. It is close to major urban centres, ensuring that residents can enjoy the peace and tranquillity of estate living without sacrificing the conveniences of city life. This prime location, with its combination of natural beauty, climate, and accessibility, truly enhances the living experience at Zimbali Estate, setting it apart from other luxury residential communities.
As an eco estate, how do you balance development with conserving the natural beauty surrounding Zimbali Estate? What other sustainability initiatives are in place?
At Zimbali Estate, we balance development with conserving the natural beauty surrounding us through a comprehensive approach guided by our integrated reporting framework and Environment, Social and Governance (ESG) policy. This framework ensures that we maintain equilibrium across all capitals.
We have set aside 100 hectares of land, roughly a quarter of the estate, specifically for conservation purposes. To further support our commitment to the environment, there are no fences around the properties, and each one includes a conservation servitude dedicated to planting indigenous species. We also have several restoration projects underway, including efforts to restore our grasslands, forests and wetlands.
Additionally, eco-passages have been developed to allow animals to safely enter and exit the estate, supporting wildlife movement and habitat connectivity. Various research projects, conducted in collaboration with universities and conservation groups, focus on species such as a breeding pair of Crowned Eagles and the healthy population of Southern African Rock Pythons. These initiatives reflect our dedication to preserving and enhancing the natural environment while pursuing responsible development.
What can people expect when investing in Zimbali Estate? What kind of properties are available, and is there scope for renovation and/or new builds?
When investing in Zimbali Estate, people can expect to be surrounded by opulence and grounded by nature. The estate offers a variety of luxurious properties, including beach-front homes, elegant townhouses and sophisticated apartments, each designed to provide the utmost comfort and style. While there are only a few stands left for new builds, there are numerous opportunities for renovation, allowing investors to customize and modernize existing homes to meet their specific tastes and preferences.
The lifestyle available at Zimbali Estate boasts world-class amenities and facilities, including a championship golf course, luxurious spas, fine dining restaurants, multiple swimming pools, tennis courts, and direct beach access, all set within a secure and beautifully landscaped environment.
Who has Zimbali Estate been designed to cater to, and how is this showcased within the estate?
Zimbali Estate has been designed to cater to individuals and families across all generations, showcasing this commitment through its diverse amenities and facilities that appeal to various age groups. From young families to retirees, the estate offers something for everyone.
For younger residents, there are safe play areas, swimming pools, and a variety of recreational activities. Adults can enjoy the championship golf course, luxurious spas, tranquil forest walks and beach activities.
Could you describe the community culture within Zimbali Estate and how this is fostered?
The community culture within Zimbali Estate is vibrant and inclusive, fostered by a variety of activities and initiatives that encourage interaction and collaboration among residents. Regular collaboration sessions are held to encourage the exchange of ideas, fostering a sense of unity and shared purpose. Additionally, socially cohesive events, such as community gatherings, family-friendly activities, and cultural celebrations, are organized to bring residents together, promote social bonds, and create a strong sense of belonging. These efforts ensure that Zimbali Estate is not just a place to live but a thriving, connected community where residents can build lasting relationships and enjoy a rich, communal lifestyle.
Security is a paramount concern for residents in any estate. What measures has Zimbali Estate implemented to ensure the safety and privacy of its residents?
At Zimbali Estate, ensuring the safety and privacy of our residents is a top priority. We have implemented a comprehensive security system that includes high-resolution cameras strategically placed throughout the estate, armed guards for on-the-ground protection, and an electrified fence to deter unauthorized access. Our state-of-the-art control room, equipped with advanced AI technology, monitors all security operations in real-time, allowing for prompt responses to any issues. Additionally, we invest annually in the latest technology and ongoing training for our security personnel to maintain the highest safety standards. These measures collectively provide a secure and private environment, ensuring peace of mind for all residents.
Are there any upcoming developments or expansions planned for Zimbali Estate?
Zimbali Estate has exciting developments and initiatives on the horizon. We are planning significant upgrades to our facilities to enhance the overall resident experience and ensure that our amenities meet the highest luxury and functionality standards. Additionally, we are focused on advancing our efforts towards self-sustainability, particularly in terms of water and electricity. These initiatives aim to reduce our environmental footprint and ensure that the estate remains at the forefront of sustainable living practices. These forward-thinking projects reflect our commitment to continual improvement and environmental responsibility.
What is your vision for Zimbali Estate, and how do you see it evolving over the next decade?
I believe Zimbali Estate is poised to become the premier lifestyle development on the African continent with international significance. To maintain this position over the next decade, we will persist in investing in our facilities and infrastructure while preserving our extensive beaches and forests. Zimbali Estate is set to be one of the last genuine eco-developments, enhancing the value proposition for property owners. Our goal is to continue exemplifying how environmental stewardship and development can coexist harmoniously.
What have been some of the biggest challenges in managing such a prestigious estate, and what lessons have you learned from overcoming these challenges?
Managing a prestigious estate like Zimbali Estate presents several significant challenges. One of the biggest hurdles has been identifying the incremental changes needed to elevate the estate while addressing resistance to change within our diverse community. Balancing these changes with the need to maintain existing operational excellence has been crucial. Additionally, navigating change management in a luxury environment adds its own complexities, requiring careful consideration to ensure that both innovation and tradition are seamlessly integrated. Overcoming these challenges has taught us valuable lessons in effective communication, stakeholder engagement, and the importance of preserving core values while pursuing progress.
We have had to be clear that we aim to do what is best for Zimbali Estate. While at a certain time in the process of change, it might not suit every need of an individual shareholder, the end goal and result will benefit the organization as a whole, which in turn will benefit the individual.
What is your personal favourite aspect of working AT Zimbali Estate?
My personal favourite aspect of working at Zimbali Estate is the opportunity to engage with our remarkable eco-environment while applying sound business principles. The estate’s commitment to sustainability and its natural beauty are truly inspiring, and being able to integrate these values into effective business strategies and practices makes the work both fulfilling and impactful. It’s rewarding to see how our efforts to balance environmental stewardship with business success contribute to the overall excellence of Zimbali Estate.
To find out more about Zimbali Estate, visit the links below:
ZIMBALI ESTATE
Zimbali Drive, Dolphin Coast
Ballitoville, KwaZulu-Natal
South Africa 4399
Web: zimbali.com
Tel: +27 32 538 4300
Email: reception@zimbaliestate.com
Instagram: @ZimbaliEstate
Facebook: @ZimbaliEstate