David Green, CEO of the V&A Waterfront and chairman of the Zeitz Museum of Contemporary Art Africa (MOCAA), has been awarded an Officer of the Order of the British Empire (OBE) for his outstanding contributions to UK-South Africa relations.

The honour was recently officially conferred as part of the King Charles’s New Year Honours List.

“I am deeply humbled to receive this recognition. It reflects the incredible work of the entire V&A Waterfront and Zeitz MOCAA teams.

“Tourism is a vital bridge between nations, and I am proud to contribute to the strong relationship between South Africa and the UK.”

A statement by the V&A Waterfront said under Mr Green’s leadership, the V&A Waterfront has solidified its position as one of Africa’s leading tourism destinations, attracting millions of international and local visitors annually.

The Zeitz MOCAA has also gained global acclaim as a premier cultural institution showcasing African art to the world.

This recognition highlights Mr Green’s role in fostering strong economic, cultural, and tourism links between the United Kingdom and South Africa.

Originally from Scotland, Mr Green took on the role as CEO of the V&A Waterfront in 2009 after a decade of being the group financial director at Peel Ports - part of the UK’s largest privately-owned property and transport business.

Prior to this, Mr Green held several internationally based general management and financial positions in the manufacturing industry.

He is also a member of the Institute of Chartered Accountants, Scotland since 1992 and completed an Advanced Management Programme at Insead in Paris.

He is an avid reader and enjoys cycling and travel; and is a keen spectator of rugby and tennis.

When Mr Green became CEO at the Waterfront, the incentive of “readiness for World Cup 2010” was the initial impetus to reviving the pride of the precinct.

He said the original vision for the Waterfront - “Connecting Capetonians with the Sea” - remained valid as did the plan to redevelop the old harbour and surrounding area, into a truly mixed-use destination.

“This was to be achieved by careful and thoughtful restoration of the historic buildings together with world-leading new buildings which would attract locals and tourists alike would want to visit.”

In 2011, the V&A Waterfront was sold by the overseas investors back into local ownership when the Government Employees Pension Fund (GEPF), as managed by the Public Investment Corporation (PIC) and Growthpoint, acquired the Waterfront.

Following this acquisition, the Waterfront embarked upon a multi-billion investment in the precinct, expanding the total retail activities to almost 100 000m2, significantly increasing the number of blue-chip commercial offices based in the Waterfront; accommodation to some 170 000m2 and adding additional restaurants, hotels, and residential accommodation to let and to sell.

He said the current vision for the Waterfront was to collectively create the world’s most inspiring waterfront neighbourhood, creating the platform to be able to thrive and flourish.

Mr Green said receiving an OBE is considered a great honour because it recognises significant achievements or services to the community and the nation.

“The investiture ceremony, often held at Buckingham Palace or another royal venue, is an occasion steeped in tradition and attended by members of the Royal Family.

“Receiving an OBE is partly about personal success, but more often it is a recognition that an individual has had a positive influence on others, as well as their dedication to making a difference.”

Shirley Zinn, chairperson of the V&A Waterfront, said: Mr Green’s tireless stewardship has transformed the Waterfront into a world-class destination, contributing significantly to Cape Town’s economy and its appeal to both local and international visitors.

“This award is a fitting recognition of his dedication and impact.”

Mayor Geordin Hill-Lewis congratulated Mr Green, saying he had helped to make the V&A Waterfront one of the “most exceptional public spaces and attractions on the entire African continent”.

Antony Phillipson, British High Commissioner to South Africa, said: “I am delighted to see that David has been awarded this honour by His Majesty King Charles.

“The people to people links between South Africa and the UK are a key pillar of our modern-day partnership, and David has done much to deepen and strengthen them through his leadership at the V&A Waterfront and the Zeitz MOCAA Museum.”

“Many congratulations from us all in the UK.”

Koyo Kouoh, Zeitz MOCAA executive director and chief curator, said: “Mr Green’s visionary leadership and commitment to the advancement of our mission to present and preserve contemporary art from Africa and its vast diaspora are etched in the transformative work and impact of our groundbreaking institution on the global art ecology.

“We are honoured to see him join the list of distinguished OBE awardees.”