It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of our former Executive Director and Honorary Life Member, Geoff Penny.

Geoff dedicated his life to serving South Africa’s staple food and broader food security sectors with integrity, humility, and unwavering commitment. His leadership journey spanned decades and left an indelible mark across the industry.

He served as Executive Director of the South African Chamber of Baking from 2012 to 2021, where he provided steadfast leadership to the baking industry and strengthened the Chamber’s national presence. During his tenure, he represented the industry on numerous influential bodies, including the Consumer Goods Council of South Africa (CGCSA), the South African Grain Laboratory (Director), FoodBev SETA (Board Member, EXCO, and BCCS Chamber Chairman), the Winter Cereal Trust (Trustee and Bursary Committee Member), the Wheat Forum and its Steering Committee, and Baking Industry Confederation of South Africa (Director).

Through these roles, Geoff was a tireless advocate for collaboration across the value chain, constructive engagement with government, and the advancement of skills development within the baking and grain sectors.

His commitment to food security extended beyond the baking industry. Geoff held executive leadership roles at FoodBank South Africa, where he played a key role in strengthening the fight against hunger and food waste. He also held senior leadership positions at Eskort Limited, Seaboard Corporation (Managing Director: Africa – Milling), UPD, and CHOC Childhood Cancer Foundation South Africa, among others.

Even after concluding his formal tenure at the Chamber, Geoff continued to serve the industry as a mentor and consultant, focusing on staple foods, food loss, and waste reduction initiatives, a reflection of his enduring passion for making a meaningful difference.

Beyond his impressive professional achievements, Geoff was a mentor, a trusted advisor, and a true gentleman. He led with wisdom, calm resolve, and quiet strength. Many of us were privileged to learn from him, work alongside him, and experience his generosity of spirit.

His legacy within the Chamber and the wider food industry will not be forgotten.

Our heartfelt condolences go out to his wife, Lynn, his son, Grant, and his family and loved ones during this difficult time.

May he rest in peace.