Dr. Thulani DLAMINI

PROFILE
I am a seasoned executive with more than 15 years’ experience leading R&D organizations in the oil and gas well as public sector. A qualified scientist with a Ph.D. in catalysis complemented with a Master’s degree in business leadership.
I am currently the Chief Executive Officer of the largest Science Council in South Africa. I initiated and lead a strategic transformation journey to align the organizational strategy with the industrial development needs of the country.
Extensive experience in strategy development, organizational change management, strategic stakeholder relationship management and business transformation.

EDUCATION
University of the Witwatersrand
1990 – 1998
BSc - Chemistry
BSc (Hon) – Applied Chemistry
Ph.D. – Catalysis
University of South Africa
1999 – 2003
Program in Business Leadership
Master of Business Leadership

WORK EXPERIENCE
Sasol Technology LTD
Scientist, Senior Scientist, Principle Scientist, Chief Scientist
1998 – 2005
Undertook R&D in heterogeneous catalysis for the conversion of syngas to chemicals. Filled five patents in this field. Received various recognition awards for excellence. I was Chief Scientist and research leader for Materials Characterization.
Council for Scientific and Industrial Research
Centre Manager: National Laser Centre
2005 – 2008
Led the growth and transformation of the National Laser Centre.
Council for Scientific and Industrial Research
Group Executive: Research and Development
2008 – 2011
Responsible for the strategic investment of R650m state grant and R&D strategy of the CSIR. Led the development of flagship investment plan in areas such as defense and security, health and water.
Sasol LTD
Executive Manager: Research & Development
2012 – 2014
Executive Manager for Sasol’s corporate R&D functions.
Sasol LTD
Vice President: Strategic Research and Technology
2014 – 2017
Led the development and Implementation of long term technology development strategy in adjacent areas of innovation to the Sasol core business.
Council for Scientific and Industrial Research
Chief Executive Officer
2018 – to date
Leading the business transformation of CSIR to make an impact in industry, society and government.

PROFESSIONAL MEMBERSHIPS
Institute of Directors, SA
Academy of Science of South Africa