Grant Ponting appointed as KMI Airport’s CEO

Most recently, Ponting held the position of CEO of Trappers Outdoor. He has broad leadership and commercial experience, having grown the Trappers wholesale and franchise business and expanding the retail group into a cluster of 37 stores nationwide, generating significant revenues.

Ponting has been responsible for engagement with large groups of stakeholders and led the company through the acquisition of the business in 2019. He holds a master of science degree in retail management from Stirling University in Scotland and a bachelor of commerce from the University of Natal.

“We are delighted that Grant has accepted the position. He has a broad and unique skillset as well as deep roots in the Lowveld community, having been born and raised in Mbombela” said the chairperson of the board, Antony Ball. “Grant has extensive leadership experience and has demonstrated his ability in building successful organisations and businesses. We are confident that he is the right person to lead KMI Airport in its next chapter, and will be pivotal in developing and driving the organisation forward.”

Ball continued: “I would also like to use this opportunity to sincerely thank Marius Nel for his years of dedication to the airport. It is due to his hard work and commitment that KMI has become such an integral part of Mbombela’s economy and community. I wish him all the best of luck for the future.”

“I am very excited about joining such a competent team at KMI Airport and look forward to the challenge of supporting its sustainable growth in a way that benefits all of its many stakeholders. The airport is the gateway to some of South Africa’s most iconic natural treasures, and the Lowveld area and its communities hold a special place in my heart. I am committed to realising KMI’s vision of being Africa’s preferred tourist airport and gateway, and want to ensure that we continue to provide service excellence and a unique experience to all airport users,” said Ponting.