Most leaders rise through the ranks by being self-driven. Few talk about the real challenge that comes next: learning to lead through others, not just yourself. Charl de Villiers learnt this early, and mastered it.

As CEO of Libstar, one of South Africa’s largest food manufacturers behind brands like Lancewood and Cape Herb & Spice, Charl transformed from a strong, independent achiever into a leader who united 7,000 employees across 27 previously competing business units.

In this conversation with Christiaan van den Berg, Charl shares how he evolved from a self-motivated leader into one who empowers, unites, and builds people, and why that shift is critical for anyone leading at scale.

You’ll discover:

1. Why empowering people starts with painting what good looks like, then letting them find their way there

2. The value (and risk) of radical transparency inside large organisations

3. How Charl’s “One Libstar” vision turned 27 autonomous units into a collaborative, united group

4. Why the hardest leadership lesson is to make the tough calls sooner

5. How Libstar is building resilience and long-term growth despite South Africa’s challenges

6. Why great leaders work to build businesses that outlive them

For CEOs, people leaders, and anyone navigating the shift from doing to leading, this conversation shows what it really takes to lead with purpose, humility, and conviction.

Connect with Christiaan van den Berg on LinkedIn.

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