Mike Newton

Michael Newton, the chief executive officer of the uMgungundlovu Economic Development Agency (UMEDA), has spent the majority of his career in local government, climbing through the ranks to hold influential roles. He is a qualified civil engineering technologist, but his career trajectory shifted as he discovered a passion for the economic sector which he found interesting and stimulating. His journey took him from technical positions to leadership roles, including that of municipal manager for iLembe District Municipality on the North Coast.

His work has often involved creating and managing development agencies to stimulate growth. One such initiative was the establishment of Enterprise iLembe, which he introduced after discussions with the Auditor General. He explains, “We were painting outside the numbers a little bit, so we introduced a development agency, and we also established the iLembe Chamber of Commerce and Industry.” These projects were part of a broader effort to drive economic development, particularly on the North Coast, and were aimed at simulating long-term growth in the region.

A SIGNIFICANT TURN
Michael’s career also took a significant turn when he was called to higher office in the province, becoming a special advisor to Premier Senzo Mchunu. “He asked me to help with the National School Nutrition Programme,” Michael explains. The request was based on the success of the iLembe project which involved feeding around 155,000 children every day for 45 weeks, with the food sourced from 54 community gardens. “We started with fresh produce from the market, but as the communities began growing their own vegetables, 80% of the produce came from those gardens,” he recalls. This programme proved not only to be a success in terms of providing for children but also contributed significantly to the local economy.

Michael said, “We ended up with around R600,000 divided amongst the communities involved,” he recalls. “When you go from having nothing to suddenly having income coming in, you can put food on the table and buy shoes for kids – it gives people dignity.”

Reflecting on the most rewarding aspects of his work, Michael highlights the significance of helping communities. “What I do is a passion. I enjoy helping people who have really had a rough run. At the agency level, you’re at the cold face of things. You can see how you’re making a real difference, and that’s what drives me.” He speaks especially about how rewarding it is to help people get something tangible out of government, particularly when it leads to job creation and positive change in people’s lives.

IT’S A BALANCING ACT
Michael highlights the influence of a piece of advice he received early in his career from Frank Stevens, his director when he was a chief technologist. “He told me that management is like plucking a goose – you have to get the most feathers with the least hissing.” This advice resonated with Michael throughout his career, particularly in managing complex projects and teams. “It’s not just about keeping your eye on the ball; it’s also about seeing what’s going on around you and looking for opportunities,” he says. “It’s a balancing act, but I’m blessed to have a great team that helps me focus on what’s important.”

Michael’s leadership has not been without its challenges. “The biggest challenge is trying to encourage inbound investment into a region where there are infrastructural and social environment challenges. KwaZulu Natal is not the most attractive investment destination based on the history of social unrest, bad weather events along with energy and water security.” However, he has overcome these challenges by upholding a strong sense of integrity in his work. “When people come to us, they know they’ll get an honest deal. We do our best with what we have, and we treat the money as if it’s our own,” he explains. Michael points to large-scale projects, such as the 2.2 billion Rand airport development and the 8 billion Rand Lion Park Airport opportunity, as examples of the magnitude of work involved. “These are big numbers, and you need to treat them with respect,” he says.

As for keeping his team motivated, Michael has a rather unique approach: “I have a doughnut day. We get doughnuts from a local shop in Pietermaritzburg, and it’s a small thing, but it makes a difference,” he comments with a smile. He adds that they also have regular team celebrations, such as a braai, to show appreciation for the hard work and dedication of his staff.

ETHICAL LEADERSHIP
Michael finds inspiration in ethical leadership, looking up to figures such as South Africa’s President Cyril Ramaphosa for his integrity. “I think ethical leadership is something we need to focus on. Our current president is a good example of that, and I also get a lot of direction and inspiration from the District Mayor Mzi Zuma.” Michael added, “He’s someone I can call for advice, and he always gives me direction that I respect.”

When discussing his vision for the future of KwaZulu-Natal, Michael focuses on the region’s competitive advantages. “KZN has an amazing coastline but we need to get the basics right including that of the maritime sector. If we focus on growing the agriculture sector, we’ll start exporting more, and that will put us back in the game,” he says. He is confident in the province’s potential, noting that the manufacturing side is already strong. “We’re a net exporter of goods, so we’re on the right track,” he adds.

Michael says my motto is: ‘Play as much music as you can’. “I’m in a band, and we play at weddings and venues. It’s a great way to unwind, and we do a lot of charity work with our music. It’s something that keeps me grounded and happy. But more than that, it’s about doing good and leaving behind a legacy so that people will remember you with a smile,” he concludes.