A tribute to Andre Engelbrecht, CEO of Robertson Winery

Friday, 26 March, 2021
Robertson Winery
It is with deep sadness that we share the news that Andre Engelbrecht, chief executive officer of Robertson Winery, passed away on Friday, 19 March 2021. Andre had been battling the debilitating effects of cancer for some time and he confronted the ordeal with immense fortitude and dignity, always determined to make the most of every day.

Andre began his career in the construction and engineering sector, later adding a Post-Graduate Diploma in Tax Law, a programme in Wine Management and an MBA (cum laude) to his achievements. However, it was through his role as financial manager at Riebeek Cellars, later as their operations manager and then as CEO, that his love for the wine industry really took hold. On 1 July 2019, Andre took on the role of CEO at Robertson Winery.

Andre’s commitment to quality production and service, his understanding of and love for marketing, as well as his ability to communicate clearly, were valuable skills he brought to the workplace. His biggest contribution, however, came from his ability to influence and empower all those around him.

Like most natural leaders, Andre was able to find solutions to complex problems by balancing the various interests. He engendered trust through integrity, honesty and humility, and shaped an environment where individuals were given the freedom to develop and thrive, both personally and professionally, to the ultimate benefit of the team. In return for the trust that Andre placed in people, he expected accountability, but always with empathy for the individual.

It is a testament to Andre’s incredible ability to relate to all people that, in less than two years, he garnered the respect of so many, having established a culture of inclusivity, teamwork and mutual respect that will no doubt be sustained for many years to come.

Andre was at his happiest spending time with his wife and two children. He was an avid reader and was passionate about the outdoors, especially scuba diving and endurance racing, both MTB and motorcycle.

We will all miss Andre’s boundless enthusiasm and positive mindset. Our condolences and warmest thoughts go to his wife, Chrisna, and two children, Anja and Francois, during this most trying period.