Ockert Jansen bridges communication and corporate sustainability at Coca-Cola

Ockert Jansen, the newly appointed director of public affairs, communication and sustainability at Coca-Cola Beverages Africa (CCBA) Namibia, brings a refreshing guiding philosophy to the role – "lead from the centre".For Jansen, leadership is not about commanding from the top; it is about being deeply invested in people, empowering teams and creating impact from within.He joined CCBA Namibia on 1 July. Though new to the company, Jansen is no stranger to organisational influence and transformation. With more than two decades of experience in communications, marketing, stakeholder engagement and reputation management, he now steps into a role that expands his remit to public and regulatory affairs and the increasingly vital field of corporate sustainability.“My role is pivotal in driving impact across CCBA’s growth strategy,” Jansen explains. “Whether it’s ensuring regulatory compliance, building a credible reputation or fostering stakeholder confidence, I see my work as central to creating shared value for our shareholders, employees, customers and communities.”His academic credentials are as impressive as his professional journey. Jansen holds a Master of Arts in Intercultural and International Communication from American University in Washington, D.C., earned under the prestigious William J. Fulbright Scholarship. Professional highlights He laid his foundation in journalism and communications technology at the former Polytechnic of Namibia, further complemented by professional development programmes at the University of Namibia Business School and the University of Cape Town. He is also a Certified Public Relations Practitioner (CPRP), accredited by the Public Relations Institute of Southern Africa.Before joining CCBA, Jansen held senior leadership roles at several institutions including the Business and Intellectual Property Authority (BIPA), the Namibian Judiciary and the National Commission on Research, Science and Technology (NCRST), among others. Among his proudest achievements is the media relations strategy he implemented at the Judiciary, which opened courtrooms to the public and media, including live broadcasts of high-profile cases, a move he says “significantly enhanced transparency and public trust in the judicial system.”Another milestone was his work at the Namibian Broadcasting Corporation (NBC), where he led the marketing strategy for digital migration. Under his leadership, Namibia became one of only four SADC countries to meet the International Telecommunication Union’s (ITU) 2015 deadline for digital migration.Trust, policy, action While his early career was rooted in communication and marketing, Jansen’s transition into public affairs and sustainability reflects a broader evolution in his leadership career. “The complexity of today’s business environment demands more than just messaging,” he says, “it requires strategic engagement with regulators, communities and environmental realities.” He adds: “I’m excited to be part of a company where these elements are not just add-ons but core to how we do business.” For those that know Jansen, he is vocal about his belief that effective communication is the cornerstone of successful public affairs engagement, and he is confident that it serves as a powerful tool to amplify CCBA Namibia’s sustainability wins. “We must be able to tell our story, how we are replenishing water, reducing packaging waste and empowering entrepreneurs. Communication is how we build trust, influence policy and inspire action.”His leadership style is deeply collaborative, emphasising mentorship and consultation. “Respect, trust and compassion are critical when working with people,” he says. “People thrive when they feel valued and appreciated. That’s the kind of culture I aim to foster.” Ockert’s passion for the Coca-Cola brand dates back to his childhood, when iconic jingles and the brand’s energy left a lasting impression on him. “Coca-Cola is more than a beverage, it’s a celebration of everyday moments that connect generations.” He recalls the signature jingle of “You can’t beat the feeling”, which was a hit in the 1990s when he was growing up. “What drew me to work for Coca-Cola Beverage Africa in Namibia was its commitment to the local economy, its deep community engagement, and its role as a force for positive change.”Unlocking potential Although he’s only been with CCBA Namibia for a brief period, Jansen is already inspired by the company’s collaborative spirit and shared purpose. “The people of CCBA Namibia are the backbone of the company. Without them, we cannot exist. Fostering a trusted and agile culture is what will drive our growth strategy forward.”Looking ahead, he is committed to supporting his team’s development by understanding their aspirations and helping them build skills for the future. “Leadership is about unlocking potential. I want to help my team grow not just in their current roles, but in ways that prepare them for what’s next.”For aspiring leaders, his message is clear: “Stay curious, stay compassionate and never underestimate the power of collaboration. Leadership is not a title, it’s a responsibility to serve, inspire and create impact.”

Ockert Jansen bridges communication and corporate sustainability at Coca-Cola

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Namibian Sun 2025-10-29

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Ockert Jansen bridges communication and corporate sustainability at Coca-Cola

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Namibian Sun 2025-10-29

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