Mr Gerhard Gerber

Gerhard Gerber grew up on Robben Island and in Gqeberha. From a young age he understood the value of service, with both his parents being dedicated public servants as teachers.

Gerhard attended Framesby High School in Gqeberha. Growing up, he had an interest in nature conservation. 

To realise his dream, he attended Nelson Mandela Bay University of Technology after high school and obtained a National Diploma in Nature Conservation in 1995. He continued his academic journey at Unisa in 2002, and in 2005 obtained a Bachelor’s degree in Environmental Management. He continued his studies at Stellenbosch University, where he graduated with an Honours degree and then a Master’s Degree in Sustainable Development Planning & Management in 2010. 

Gerhard’s first job was working for Hydromulch – a landscape restoration company working on the rehabilitation of the Outeniqua Pass (between George and Oudtshoorn). “The botanist Jan Vlok recommended me for the job,” he said. Gerhard described his first boss as someone who always worked hard and was very driven. “I learned the importance of responsibility and dedication from him,” said Gerhard. 

According to Gerhard, the transition to his current position was somewhat destined. “I am a third-generation public servant on both my father’s and my mother’s side, and I grew up with the sense of responsibility to contribute and work for the greater good,” he explained. 

He described heading up the Development Facilitation Unit (DFU) in the Western Cape Department of Environmental Affairs and Development Planning as one of the most fulfilling moments in his life. 

“When the DFU was established at the end of 2008, I volunteered to be seconded to head up the unit which initially consisted of only me. It presented an opportunity to, with others, explore how to have impact and to have greater impact. And personally, the circumstances forced me to grow as a person and professional”. 

Gerhard strives to lead with questions in order to listen, in order to understand, and in order to respond to others. 

In April 2022, he took up the position of Head of Department: Environmental Affairs and Development Planning.