Gianfranco De Grandis

Born in Santorso, Vicenza, in 1953 and resident in South Africa for most of his life, Gianfranco brings together Italian heritage, deep South African experience and a proven record of leadership. An engineering graduate of the University of the Witwatersrand, he understands the opportunities and challenges of belonging to both countries and offers the experience, judgement and commitment needed to represent Italians across the Western Cape effectively.

His career spans senior industrial leadership and entrepreneurship. After joining Italtile in 1980, he became Managing Director of its ceramic manufacturing factory and later CEO of the Manufacturing Division, overseeing a substantial part of the group’s industrial operations. In Knysna, he founded African Claddings with Italian partners and developed Amble Ridge retirement village and Amble Ridge Healthcare, including a major frail-care facility.

Gianfranco has also led and supported civic, educational, sporting and Catholic organisations, including chairing the Oakhill School Board and establishing Knysna’s first Christian hostel for the homeless. As Vice-President of COMITES since 2024, he has worked to connect, support and give a stronger voice to the community, including organising Italian film evenings and social gatherings with Dr Coci. His sustained ties with Italy and practical record of bringing people together make him a good candidate to serve the community with credibility and purpose.