Key role for ‘change enabler’ Deidre at Ugu
Prior to this, she had worked for the Department of Land Affairs for five years in then Sisonke District.
Ugu District Municipality has appointed Deidre Jayne Rankin as the new general manager for economic development and environmental services, effective from May 17, 2021. Ms Rankin was appointed after a meticulous selection process in terms of Section 56 of the Municipal Systems Act (Act 32 of 2000) as amended, on a five-year fixed term contract of employment, which is performance based.
The new GM is a qualified economic development specialist who obtained a Masters degree in rural development and land reform. She also has a BA in African politics, industrial psychology as well as an honours degree in public administration.
She is no stranger to the South Coast as she boasts more than 25 years of experience in the industry. The highly qualified Ms Rankins was at the helm of the then Hibiscus Coast Municipality’s economic development for five years and then director of operations for another five years. Prior to this, she had worked for the Department of Land Affairs for five years in then Sisonke District.
Apart from government, she has also worked in the private sector where she was a consultant for 10 years, as well as the sugar industry, Citrus Growers Association and CEDA to name a few.
Ms Rankins is best known as a ‘change enabler’ who has managed to get farmers regardless of race, age and status to unite and form new beneficiaries. “Growing up on a farm, I became very aware of inequality, land issues and poverty at a very young age. My motto has always been to enable change that provides opportunities’ towards economic development which encourages local communities to work together to achieve sustainable economic growth and development by bringing economic benefits and improved quality of life to all communities.”
The single mom to an 18-year-old daughter loves current affairs and engaging on climate change issues. Apart from her busy work schedule, she enjoys swimming, growing herbs, cooking and hiking. She has two beautiful pets, a cat and a pug puppy. Ms Rankins loves reading with her favourite book being ‘Who will cry when you die’ by Robin Sharma. “Like the book says, when you were born, you cried and the world rejoiced. Live your life in such a way when you die the world cries while you rejoice. This has taught me to be a purpose driven person who always strives to ensure I leave a mark that betters the lives of others wherever I go.”
Joining Ugu, she has high hopes of bringing about new partnerships and providing a conducive environment to enable growth.
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