SINCEPHETELO Motor Vehicle Accident Fund (SMVAF) new Chief Executive Officer Khangeziwe Mabuza says she is happy at her new post and adapting well.
Mabuza was speaking during the SMVAF’s meeting with the Editors Forum at the Fund’s offices yesterday. The meeting’s objective was to formally introduce her to the media.
She appreciated the assurance that the media remained a partner in progress, emphasising the importance of mutual respect.
Having been appointed on December 4, Mabuza stated that she was wrapping up almost two months in office, noting that she was still learning the ropes after hitting the ground running. She praised her team for being receptive to the ideas she tables.
“I bring nothing much except my willingness to serve,” she said, adding that she never dreamt of becoming a CEO and did not have a problem adjusting to the position.
However, she stated that her concern was what she termed her “poverty mentality”, which she said would be a challenge.
“I am grateful for giving back to my King and the country, having been accorded the opportunity to serve as a Chief Executive Officer (CEO). I had never dreamt of being a CEO in my life, but I am glad that government deemed it fit that my name be considered and enabled me to be here,” said Mabuza.
She added that although she arrives at work as early as 8am, she wakes up every morning looking forward to work.
“There is something new that I will be bringing in,” she said.
“It does not matter whether it will make sense to the team or not,” Mabuza said.
She was quick to state that her experience in government moulded her, adding that she is a born-and-bred civil servant with about 30 years of service.
“I confirm that I am happy for many reasons and am enjoying life. Government culture is known to be relaxed, but I have always been one of those few unique ones. It would frustrate me to see opportunities about to be missed because processes take too long,” she said.
She explained that government is a bureaucratic structure designed for checks and balances.
“There is no correct or wrong in government. You have systems to test every decision you make. I am not talking about characters in the system, but the system as I studied and practised it,” added Mabuza.
She described her appointment as a fresh and interesting start and welcomed the continued support of the media.
Naturally a fast learner and decision-maker, she said she does not mind failing, though at times she feels she may be moving too fast for her team.
Quizzed on the state of the Fund when she arrived compared to now, Mabuza said her work ethic and culture were professional.
“The Fund presents many opportunities; we need to think outside the box,” she said.
“If someone tells you that things are stuck in the CEO’s office, they will be lying. My office has always been clean, even during my time in government, with no in-and-out filing trays.
“With the right attitude, support and guidance, my team is more than capable. We are thinking outside the box, following international trends and exploring what we can tap into.
“However, change is not easy,” stated the CEO.
