When a trio of South African engineering pioneers started their own consultancy in Johannesburg in 1974, it was innovation that was their guide; half a century later, SRK Consulting is a 1700-strong global network of scientists and engineers that embraces digital and other technologies to further enhance its impact.
From its original South African base, SRK Consulting grew its footprint into the rest of Africa and abroad. This success was achieved despite the cycles and vagaries of the South African mining sector, both before and after the nation’s transition to democracy. The steady expansion into Africa was supported by SRK’s country practices across the globe, especially those in South Africa, the United Kingdom and Australia.
Innovative culture
Vital to the energy within SRK Consulting is its innovative culture and its business model based on employee ownership – which were core to the founders’ vision. The success of Oskar Steffen, Andy Robertson and Hendrik Kirsten was based on their complementary talents as “a statesman, an entrepreneur and a scientific mind” respectively.
“They invited bright people to join SRK with these simple words: come and build your own practice within our company,” said SRK Consulting global chairman Alejo Sfriso. Their business model – which was employee-owned with flat reporting structures – drew in the best minds with a shared professional curiosity and commitment to engineering excellence.”
