Always be authentic and genuine. It's that simple.
As of March 2022, Liberty CFO Yuresh Maharaj has stepped into the CEO role. We'd like you to get to know Yuresh, and hear more about his first months in the top job
How does it feel to be the CEO of Liberty?
I'm extremely humbled and privileged to be leading this great organisation. I'm touched by all the support that I have received and to know that everyone is right behind me.
How did you prepare yourself?
I've been fortunate to have been on the Liberty Board since 2018. I worked with the previous CEO, David Munro, which meant I was involved with co-creating the company's strategy. An organisation of this size and complexity can be daunting. For me it feels like a natural transition: there are lots of things to be done and I'm up for the challenge.
Where would you like to see Liberty going?
Liberty is here to serve our clients and be in it with them, to make their financial freedom possible. I want current and future clients to be proud to be with us. I believe we are on the right path and it's time for Liberty to reclaim our No.1 position in the South African market.
Let's talk about you – do you see yourself as a family man?
Yes, family is very important to me. I've been happily married for twenty years and am the only male in our family. We have two teenage daughters, which can be an emotional rollercoaster - in the best possible way of course!
What kinds of things do you do together as a family?
As a family, we like to play tennis. But we all have such competitive streaks that we can never complete a full game, or agree on who is bending the rules, either! Someone is always walking off the court because none of us ever want to lose.
What's your favorite meal?
I'm an avid foodie and there are so many choices. But let's go with seared salmon.
What's your favorite movie?
I like the early Fast and Furious films with Paul Walker. Motor racing is great to watch.
Who is the one person you'd like to meet?
That would be the Dalai Lama. I admire how his calm aura just resonates and calms everybody around him.
What's your best advice to anyone?
Always be authentic and genuine. It's that simple.