Industry association Consulting Engineers South Africa (CESA) has elected David Leukes as its new president, and Knight Piésold Africa regional manager Vishal Haripersad as VP.
Leukes has served as a member of the CESA board for several years and is currently BVi Consulting Engineers MD. He completed his National Diploma in Civil Engineering at the Cape Technikon and subsequently attained his BTech degree at the Free State Technikon.
He also has an MBA degree from the University of Stellenbosch Business School.
Leukes’ presidency will run until the end of 2025 and will see him play an important role through advocacy in the organisation that is the custodian of the well-being of the industry supported by about 600 member firms that employ about 19 000 people.
Born in the Northern Cape town of Upington, his fascination with the world of infrastructure started at an early age, leading him on a professional journey through education and leadership roles within the profession.
He received a bursary through BVi Consulting Engineers in 1992, which he believes was a major contributor in opening doors towards his civil engineering studies.
“I have more than 25 years’ experience in the industry, having risen through the ranks at BVi Consulting Engineers, and I am looking forward to using my skills and leadership attributes to contribute towards driving transformation and bringing positive change within our communities,” Leukes said.
CESA CEO Chris Campbell congratulated Leukes on his new role within the organisation and reiterated his support.
“We are looking forward to working with the new president and continuing to drive our focus on partnering with industry stakeholders for sustainable, value-for-money infrastructure development,” he said.