It is with sadness that Business Leadership South Africa (BLSA) has learned of the passing of its former CEO, Mr Michael Spicer. Mr Spicer was instrumental to BLSA and was CEO from 2005 – 2011.

Born in 1953, Mr Spicer passed away on Thursday morning, 10 March 2022. Mr Spicer was a well-respected, and formidable businessman and leader. He had experience in business, government relations, education, economic policy and the wine and tourism industries.

He joined BLSA, formally known as the South African Foundation in 2005. When he joined the organisation, it was clear to him that the old Foundation had to be completely rebranded and restrategised. In the same year Mr Spicer transformed the South African Foundation into what it is known as today, BLSA.

During his time at BLSA it was clear that the organisation represented the largest companies – and he aimed to have 100 of the largest and mainly JSE listed organisations as BLSA members. He prided himself in almost reaching the 100-goal mark and had 90-plus members.

Although he was no longer a BLSA CEO he actively continued to participate in council meetings, and consistently weighed in on BLSA’s position and views. At the time of his untimely passing, he was the independent director at Adcorp Holdings Limited. He was appointed as the independent director in August 2013. For 20 years, Mr Spicer was an executive director at Anglo American, served as a board member of SA Tourism and the International Marketing Council, which later became Brand SA.

BLSA extends their deepest condolences to his loving wife, Ireen, their sons, Nicholas and Simon, his extended family, friends, and colleagues. Mr Spicer leaves behind a great legacy. BLSA thanks his family for sharing him with South Africa and the business community.
The memorial service and funeral details of Mr Spicer will be shared once they become available.

For any media enquiries please contact Tumelo Muteme at Tmuteme@businessleadership.org.za