Trailblazer in blue: Brig Marlize’s journey to leadership
Brig Marlize Potgieter's 30 years of unwavering service were marked by numerous relocations and a steady rise through the ranks, culminating in her sixth promotion.
POLOKWANE – When South Africa embraced democracy in 1994, a 18-year-old female from Hennenman, Free State embarked on a groundbreaking career in the police.
This week, Brig Marlize Potgieter, now 49, was appointed Head of Police Emergency (PES) and Firearms, Liquor, and Second-hand goods (FLASH) Services in Limpopo – a testament to her determination and dedication over three decades.
Potgieter’s path to the top began immediately after matriculating in Hennenman in the Free Stste in 1993. She joined the police college to pursue what she described as a lifelong calling to serve in the K9 Unit, despite it being a male-dominated space at the time.
“I faced resistance from Commanders who doubted my abilities, but I was determined to prove myself,” she said. “Even in college, the excitement of the new democratic era motivated us to begin serving our people, though my first post was as a Constable in the Free State’s Welkom Client Service Centre. It marked the start of my journey toward the K9 unit, which I’ve always loved.”
Potgieter’s 30 years of unwavering service were marked by numerous relocations and a steady rise through the ranks, culminating in her sixth promotion. She has worked in senior K9 management positions across Polokwane, Pretoria, and Welkom, fulfilling a promise she made to herself as a young recruit.
“I am excited to return home to serve Limpopo, this time with my family by my side,” Potgieter said, reflecting on her career’s demands. “Balancing work and personal life requires open communication. Letting your loved ones know about challenges and travels can lighten the load.”
On Monday, Provincial Commissioner Lt Gen Thembi Hadebe conferred Potgieter’s new rank at the Limpopo head office. Her prior role as a Colonel in Visible Policing and Operations prepared her for this crucial leadership position.
Potgieter is committed to delivering results in crime prevention and response. To her new colleagues, she said, “They all know me and what I expect: dedication, discipline, and honesty – always.”
Potgieter’s story is one of resilience, growth, and the pursuit of excellence, inspiring a new generation of police officers in a democratic South Africa.
Comprehensive journey in the South African police service:
2024: Limpopo Provincial Head of Police Emergency (PES) and Firearms, Liquor and Second-Hand Goods (FLASH) Services as brigadier
2023: Section Commander of Accident Combating Services, in the Division Of Visible Policing and Operations as colonel.
2016: Promoted to rank of colonel, as Provincial Commander Police Emergency Services (PES) in Limpopo.
2010: Promoted to rank of Lieutenant Colonel at Division Visible Policing and Operations: K9 Policy Development.
2002: Promoted to a rank of Captain as the Operational Commander in Welkom’s K9 unit and in
2007 transferred to Pretoria K9 Unit as the Acting K9 Unit Commander.
1999: Promoted to Warrant Officer. Conducting K9 handler duries.
1998: Transferred to Welkom K9 Unit
1996: Promoted to Sergeant. Conducting Crime Prevention duties at Welkom Police Station.
1994: Appointed Constable at Client Service Centre in Welkom police station, in the Free State.
