As Managing Director, International Strategic Initiatives, Emma leads the global expansion of Design for Freedom, Grace Farms’ movement to eliminate forced and child labor from the building materials and critical minerals supply chains that underpin the built environment. She builds partnerships across government, industry, and civil society in the United Kingdom, Europe, the Gulf region, and Africa to advance ethical sourcing and a just transition in construction and mining.
Prior to advancing to the role of Managing Director, Emma provided critical and strategic support and assistance to the entire Grace Farms executive team, working closely with Grace Farms’ CEO and Founder. Emma supported leadership’s short- and long-term goals and vision by ensuring the information flow and decision-making processes are effective, efficient and impactful for the organization and our work.
She played a pivotal role in collecting, researching, synthesizing and analyzing information and outcomes to assess programming opportunities, strategic direction, and mission-aligned projects and advancements. In addition, Emma also ensured the timely and effective completion of all projects originating from the CEO and Founder.
Emma began her career as a corporate lawyer before transitioning to banking, where she led a Business Banking team specializing in international trade services, commercial lending, and strategic business advisory. After leaving banking in pursuit of more social entrepreneurial opportunities, Emma created a pioneering wellness business in South Africa to empower previously disadvantaged women through employment opportunities, which was later acquired by one of the country’s leading department stores.
Emma is also a wellness expert, certified Master Pilates instructor and graduate of the Institute for Integrative Nutrition. This cross-section of experiences in corporate banking, and in the entrepreneurial and wellness industry, uniquely positions Emma to champion workplace wellbeing alongside operational excellence. Her global perspective, shaped by living in South Africa, the United Kingdom, and the United States, has instilled and informed her innovative approach and entrepreneurial mindset toward leadership, team development, and organizational strategic decision-making.
Emma obtained her law degree from the University of Cape Town.
