Mr Bernard Fick, an independent non-executive director of companies, was elected as the Chair of the Stellenbosch University (SU) Council at a scheduled meeting on 13 April 2026. 

Fick, elected by donors in 2024 to serve on Council as one of three members elected by the Electoral College of Donors and serving as a member of the Executive Committee of Council, Chair of the Audit and Risk Committee (ARC) and member of the Investment Committee, was the only nominee. In accordance with SU regulations, he will now step down from the ARC. 

The election of Chair followed the process prescribed in the SU Statute and had to be elected from among the external Council members in specific categories. The term of Dr Nicky Newton-King, who served as Chair, ended on 1 April, and she has decided not to make herself available for Council as a donor candidate. 

Fick noted that it was a great honour to be entrusted with this responsibility; “Stellenbosch University has a proud history and a clear sense of purpose, and I look forward to working with Council and the University leadership to support the continued realisation of its vision and strategic goals. Our focus will be on ensuring strong governance, accountability and sustained progress in service of the institution and the broader society it serves”. 

Prof Deresh Ramjugernath, the Rector and Vice-Chancellor of SU, congratulated Fick on his election and said his appointment comes at an important moment for the University. “Bernard brings a rare combination of deep financial expertise, strong governance experience and a clear understanding of Stellenbosch University’s context and aspirations. His longstanding connection to the institution, together with his professional track record, positions him well to guide Council with integrity and foresight. I look forward to working closely with him as we continue to advance the University’s strategic priorities and long-term sustainability.” 

Fick is a SU alumnus and a member of the actuarial profession (Chartered Actuary, being a Fellow of the Faculty of Actuaries) and has spent more than 30 years working in the financial sector. Amongst others he spent 14 years with Prudential Investment Managers (now called M&G Investments Southern Africa), where he was the Chief Executive Officer for 12 years. 

He still serves on the board of directors of M&G (South Africa) Global Funds ICAV, but as an independent non-executive director. He is also an independent non-executive director of Alexforbes Investments Ltd, Alexforbes Investments Unit Trusts Ltd and Alexforbes Invest Nominees (Rf) Ltd.

He was co-opted as an independent member to the investment committee of the SU Council in 2023 and the Audit & Risk committee in 2024.

Fick is an avid golfer and cyclist. He is married to Liezel and they have two adult children, both students at SU.