Develop South Africa, a division of the Bidvest Group, has announced the appointment of Marc Pillay as MD.

Pillay has been responsible for evolving the Develop brand since its launch in the South African market in 2009, in his position as general manager. Over the last five years, whilst establishing the Develop business in the country, Pillay continued his role as general manager OPS for sister company, Konica Minolta South Africa.

The new move will see Pillay’s focus shift entirely to the operations of Develop as MD, a role he is well placed to do given his 21 years of experience in the print industry.

Since its inception, Develop South Africa, has firmly established itself in the local print, copy, scan and fax industry as a serious player, showing steady year-on-year growth of 35%. This is a remarkable achievement considering the economic climate and number of competitors.

Says Pillay: “Develop was founded locally in order to develop and partner with South Africans, particularly black entrepreneurs, and assist in bringing the country’s steady ‘brain drain’ to a halt. We believe that the company brings a value proposition to South Africa at exactly the right time, and presents a very exciting initiative for local business partners. I am delighted to dedicate all my efforts in growing this dynamic business.”

His new position also comes with a seat at the Bidvest Office division board.

Alan Griffith, CEO of the Bidvest Office division says: “Marc’s new role will see him exclusively responsible for growing the Develop South Africa business, which is a special division created as part of our enterprise development programme, designed to draw previously disadvantaged South Africans into the industry.

“Develop is an exciting brand that will give them that chance. With Marc at the helm, we are expecting great things; he is the perfect fit for this role as he has proven himself indispensable when it comes to growing new business and developing new brands.”