Our leadership is united by a shared purpose to nurture growth for farmers, communities, and the environment. Guided by strong governance principles, we combine strategic vision with hands-on management, ensuring that every decision supports dependable performance, responsible innovation, and long-term resilience in a changing agricultural world.
CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER
Dr. Nicole Hart is the CEO of Afrikelp, where she leads the company’s global strategy and science-driven growth. With a PhD in Chemistry from the University of KwaZulu-Natal, she brings over 20 years of experience in agricultural innovation, having held senior roles at AECI and Omnia Fertilizer. Under her leadership, Nicole has grown the company, strengthened its scientific capabilities, and deepened its commitment to sustainability. Nicole’s passion for agriculture and the environment, rooted in her childhood on a KwaZulu-Natal farm, drives her mission to deliver dependable, nature-based solutions that support farmers and the planet.
Business Development DIRECTOR
Deon Coetzee is part of the senior leadership team and as Business Development Director, takes responsibility for identifying growth opportunities, forming strategic partnerships, expanding market presence, and driving growth. He comes from a solid agriculture and technical background, growing up on a farm and studying BScAgric at the University of Stellenbosch. During his professional 18 years in the agricultural sector, he has held various roles at SNFL, Villa Crop Protection, and UPL. He now brings a wealth of global and business experience to Afrikelp, backed up by his MBA from Stellenbosch Business School.
Head of Science
Dr. Dunesha Naicker is the Head of Science and Development at Afrikelp, where she leads the company’s research, innovation, and quality control efforts. With a PhD in Chemistry from the University of KwaZulu-Natal, she brings extensive experience in bioprocess engineering and analytical chemistry. Under her leadership, Afrikelp has advanced its in-house testing capabilities and implemented technologies such as LC-MS to ensure product consistency and efficacy. Dr Naicker plays a key role in translating scientific rigour into practical, sustainable solutions for farmers worldwide.
Commercial Director
Salo Minnaar is the Commercial Director at Afrikelp, where he leads global partnerships and market development. With a strong background in agricultural business, he plays a key role in expanding the brand’s international presence and ensuring that Afrikelp’s biostimulant solutions meet the evolving needs of farmers worldwide.
Managing Director USA
Joaquin Orellana is the Managing Director of Afrikelp-USA, leading the company’s expansion across North America. With a background in agronomic engineering and fertigation studies, he brings extensive expertise in plant physiology, irrigation, and precision farming. His career includes roles at Ferrero Group and COMPO EXPERT GmbH, where he developed advanced fertiliser technologies. At Afrikelp-USA, Joaquin applies his knowledge to promote sustainable kelp-based biostimulants that enhance crop quality and yield, supporting farmers in achieving greater resilience and profitability.
HEAD OF FINANCE AND OPERATIONS
Waldo Schoeman serves as the Financial and Operational Executive at Afrikelp, bringing extensive experience in financial management and operational leadership. A Chartered Accountant (CA(SA)), he has held senior roles across various sectors, including positions at Co-Flo Enterprise, and Slo-Jo Trading. Waldo’s expertise in financial strategy, compliance, and organizational effectiveness supports Afrikelp’s mission to deliver dependable, science-backed biostimulant solutions to farmers worldwide.
Afrikelp is backed by RMB Ventures, Nedbank, and Bachique and upholds the highest standards of corporate governance.
