Willem du Toit

Prior to joining Cranemere, Willem spent eight years at Charterhouse Capital Partners, a leading European private equity firm. As the Deputy Finance Director at Charterhouse, he had responsibility for all fund and company accounting and reporting. Willem also provided support in the structuring, funding and reporting of the portfolio investment structures. Prior to joining Charterhouse, he spent 11 years at the private equity firm Star Capital Partners.

Willem is a chartered accountant (CGMA) and graduated with a Bachelors of Commerce (Mathematics) and a Bachelor of Commerce Honours (Economics) from the University of Stellenbosch, South Africa.

I joined Cranemere because the people, culture and acquisition strategy are aligned. The ambition and passion of the team is evident in everything they do. I felt a good connection from the early conversations I had and this only strengthened as I met more people within the team. Being part of this team on a journey to achieve the firm’s vision – creating enduring value over the long term in a sustainable and socially responsible manner – has an intensely exciting energy about it.

My favourite quote is The sea, once it casts its spell, holds one in its net of wonder forever. This quote by Jacques-Yves Cousteau is probably the best poetic description of the ocean. For some, the ocean may create fear and stress, but for me, it produces awe and a profound and invigorating peace when I’m near, on, in or under the water.

When I’m not working, I am out in the countryside mountain biking with my family. Otherwise, when there is the opportunity, I will be diving, paddle boarding or surfing.

I can get to know someone best by listening. Personal or professional relationships are built on a foundation of mutual understanding – which means more listening than talking.