Describing himself as a university dropout who failed to see how a degree would help him in the world of entrepreneurship, Brett St Clair has a 'non-traditional' approach to technology.
He learned how to 'do business in IT' by working in software engineering, pre-sales and other jobs in 32 countries across Asia, South America, Africa and more. Some of these countries he describes as actual 'war zones'.
"I have a passion for people and technology and how the latter impacts society. I came back to South Africa as I wanted to change the world."
After opening two startups - the second being a mobile marketing business - he joined mobile advertising pioneer AdMob. "I never wanted to go back into business, but you can't turn down the opportunity to work with a Silicon Valley company like this. I wanted to help develop ecosystems in our country, and show Africa how important the mobile revolution is in delivering content."
Then AdMob was bought by Google in 2009 and St Clair started his journey with the company, in a move he calls 'sneaking in through the back door called an acquisition'. Initially, he ran the products, learning how to engage with development teams and work with the sales team. From there, he assumed the role of country manager. "It took two of us a year and a half to grow Google SA from a five-million-a-year to half-a-billion-a-year company. It was about engaging the community correctly, and ensuring the value is articulated and executed correctly."
It wasn't always easy. "I remember going to meet with big (local IT business) guys and being laughed out the door. But I love challenges, and I love being the underdog."
After a stint in digital banking, St Clair became the CEO of Siatik, one of Google's cloud partners for Africa. A digital transformation advocate and advisor, he says: "In a world of constant change, you need the ability to respond quickly. If you don't, customers move very quickly away from you."
Other finalists
Charmaine Houvet: Harmonising and uplifting
James Grcic: Inspire, innovate, improve
Nico Steyn: A beautiful journey
Quintus Moolman: The art of the possible
Teddy Daka: Advancing humanity through technology
Share