
Get to know the thought leaders who are shaping the future through digital transformation
DION GOVENDER
MD of IS³
Dion, an MBA graduate of Henley UK, is the MD of IS³ & CEO of Digital Industries (Pty) Ltd which is focused on Industrial Operational Technology (OT). He has had more than two decades of experience in financial and technology organizations and began his career in the late 1980s by helping develop and support the first digital trading platforms for traded options and futures. In the early 1990s, he joined Siemens where he gained a wide variety of experience in emerging markets (Europe, Asia, and Africa) and technology development. Dion was the group CEO of Siemens Energy for approx. 5 years, before taking up a leadership role in Germany from 2010 until 2013. His executive leadership experience spans large corporates as well as entrepreneurial enterprises where he spent close to 5 years focused on sustainable development activities. He joined EOH in 2018 and helped establish Digital Industries shortly thereafter as the leading industrial operational technology company in Africa, helping accelerate the pace of industrial digital transformation.

SAMEER ALLOPI
Head of Business Development and acting Head of Sales
Initially Combining his passions for Industrial Automation and Computer Engineering, Sameer soared into the world of Industrial Automation Systems. He has worked on many projects as a Systems Integrator and often found himself developing solutions that filled gaps in the automation market.
Realising that an exponential approach is required to address these gaps, he took on the role of National Solutions Architect at Wonderware Southern Africa in 2012 (Now IS³). Through client interactions, knowledge sharing, and problem solving he gained a vast amount of knowledge off all Industries.
With his knowledge gained over the past 10 years, he continues to shape the future of industrial organisations by actively informing customers, of all industries, of the latest technology trends through his consultative approach.

CORNU PEROLD
Strategic Account Executive
Cornu started his career as an Instrument Technician at a large mining company before moving to the OEM environment selling PLCs. Product Management, Marketing Management, Sales Management and General Management roles followed before embarking on a business venture in electronic security solutions, focussing exclusively on the industrial and built environments and working extensively in Data Centers.
Cornu joined IS³ in 2019 as a Strategic Account Executive building the business in the Mining and Petrochemical sectors. Combining his passion for mining and technology, Cornu still serves clients in the mining sector.

RENE WIJGERGANGS
Sales Operations Manager
Rene Wijgergangs is a Sales Operations Manager at Industry Software Solutions and Support (IS³) with over 13 years of experience in the software industry. Based in Johannesburg, South Africa, she has progressed through key roles including Internal Sales Representative and Customer FIRST Manager before assuming her current position in 2017.
Known for her results-driven approach and attention to detail, Rene specialises in sales operations, customer relationship management, and software licensing. Her expertise in Microsoft Office applications and event planning, combined with strong analytical and leadership capabilities, has established her track record in managing customer support programs and maintaining strategic client relationships.

RUDI ERASMUS
Regional Sales Manager
Rudi Erasmus is the Regional Sales Manager for SADC at Industry Software Solutions and Support (IS³), AVEVA Select partner, where he specialises in driving digital transformation solutions across diverse industries including Oil & Gas, Manufacturing, Power, and Marine. With over 30 years of experience in process control, automation, and instrumentation, Rudi brings extensive expertise in operational technology and a proven track record of leading regional teams and exceeding sales targets.
Throughout his distinguished career, Rudi has held key leadership positions at prominent organisations including Phoenix Contact, Ontec Systems, Itron, Emerson, Siemens, and Honeywell. His international experience spans the United Kingdom, Germany, Europe, and Dubai, complementing his strong technical background and passion for sales and marketing. Rudi’s consultative approach and deep understanding of AVEVA’s portfolio enable him to deliver tailored digital solutions that enhance operational efficiency and drive sustainable business outcomes for clients across the SADC region.

DAVID VAN STADEN
Partner and Learning Ecosystem Manager
David Van Staden serves as Partner and Learning Ecosystem Manager at Industry Software Solutions and Support (IS³), bringing over 15 years of diverse experience in technical solutions, systems engineering, and operational management. Since joining IS3 in 2019, he has progressed through several key roles including Senior Solutions Architect and Lead Solutions Architect, demonstrating his expertise in developing and implementing innovative technical solutions.
With a strong background in software engineering and system integration, coupled with experience in food and beverage production management, David brings a unique perspective to his current role. He is recognized for his forward-thinking approach, problem-solving capabilities, and commitment to fostering collaborative learning environments. His leadership style emphasizes team development, strategic planning, and the successful execution of complex technical projects, while maintaining a strong focus on building lasting client relationships and driving technological innovation.

MIA DE KOCK
Demand Generation Specialist
Mia de Kock is a seasoned demand generation specialist with over 12 years of extensive experience in the dynamic world of marketing. Her expertise spans the full spectrum of marketing disciplines, including digital marketing, content creation, campaign management, and branding. With a natural flair for creativity and a sharp strategic mind, Mia transforms ambitious marketing goals into tangible results.
A true advocate for collaborative excellence, Mia has a passion for inspiring and leading teams to reach their full potential. Her leadership style emphasizes empowerment, innovation, and fostering a culture of creativity. Mia’s creativity is often referred to as her superpower—enabling her to craft campaigns that captivate audiences and leave lasting impressions. As a demand generation specialist, she continues to combine her skills, vision, and passion to ignite interest and drive impactful growth for every brand she collaborates with.

NILEN BERMAL
Head of Business International
Nilen Bermal serves as Head of Business International, where he brings extensive technical leadership experience to drive international business growth. Beginning his career with a brief internship at a System Integrator company, Nilen joined IS³ in 2007 and has since progressed through key leadership roles including Technical Director and Technical Manager.
With a BSc in Electrical Engineering and 17 years of dedicated service at IS³, his journey from Senior Engineer to leadership positions demonstrates his commitment to technical excellence and business development in the industrial automation sector. His comprehensive industry knowledge and expertise in delivering technical solutions continue to drive the organisation’s international growth strategy.

GHIREN HARRYPARSAD
Technical Services Manager
Ghiren Harryparsad serves as Senior Technical Manager at Industry Software Solutions and Support (IS³), where he leads technical services and operations with over 18 years of experience in industrial control and instrumentation. Since joining IS3 in 2023, he has demonstrated exceptional leadership in technical services management and has advanced to a senior management position.
With extensive experience from his tenure at BCX and Abacus Automation, Ghiren brings proven expertise in business unit management, project execution, and team development. His strategic approach to technical operations and stakeholder management, both nationally and internationally, continues to drive technical excellence and operational efficiency at IS³.
