SOUTH AFRICA – Richard Manzini, the CEO of Daybreak Foods, has been honored as the Businessman of the Year by the BBQ Awards, South Africa’s premier black business awards ceremony.
This accolade reflects Manzini’s outstanding leadership and the dedication of Daybreak’s employees, who are fundamental to the company’s success.
Manzini was one of ten finalists recognized by the BBQ Awards for their excellence in strategy, operations, leadership, and transformation throughout South Africa.
The BBQ Awards, renowned for celebrating and promoting sustainable black business practices, have been a hallmark of corporate excellence for nearly two decades, recognizing leaders who embody good governance and notable achievements in the business sector.
Over the past year, Manzini has guided Daybreak Foods through a significant turnaround, addressing major challenges such as Avian Influenza, rising feed costs, load shedding, and a struggling business reputation.
His strategic direction has brought operational stability, attracted top-tier talent, rebuilt stakeholder trust, regained key customers, and enhanced the employee value proposition.
Manzini’s efforts have not only put Daybreak Foods on a recovery path but have also garnered investor confidence and preserved over 3,300 jobs in a challenging economic environment.
His leadership has been pivotal in navigating the company through a period of recovery and growth.
In addition to his corporate achievements, Manzini boasts an impressive academic background.
He holds degrees from four prestigious South African universities: a Bachelor of Business Science from the University of Cape Town, an LLB from the University of South Africa, an MBA and Master of Management in Finance and Investments from the University of the Witwatersrand, and an MSc from the University of Pretoria.
Furthermore, he is a certified director through the Institute of Directors in South Africa (IoDSA) and serves on several boards.
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