Our Capitals
Our human capital - empowering SANBS’ people, advancing purpose
Our Capitals
Our human capital - empowering SANBS’ people, advancing purpose
Can you share your career journey at SANBS, where you started and the role you hold today?
Terrance Pillay: Contact Centre Manager
My journey with SANBS began in 1997 at the age of 19 when the Child Welfare Society introduced me to the Natal Blood Transfusion Service. I was facing personal challenges at the time, supporting my family while my mother battled terminal renal failure. This opportunity became the start of a lifelong passion for a life-saving company.
I started as a casual general worker, delivering internal mail across departments, an experience that sparked my curiosity and desire to learn. Over two years, I worked across Donor Relations, Finance, and Administration, gaining hands-on experience that built a strong foundation.
In 1999, I joined the Donor Records Division on a mentorship contract and led the Donor Membership Card project. A year later, I was appointed permanently as a Donor Records Clerk and pursued further education in Public Relations and Marketing Management.
By 2004, I was appointed Clinic Promoter, supporting advertising, legal approvals, and marketing. After SANBS was formed, in 2005 I became a Donor Relations Practitioner in East Rand, later leading the proposal to split the region into two branches, resulting in the creation of the Benoni Branch, which I helped establish. I also introduced the Carnival Donor Centre to operations.
Over the years, I have contributed to projects in donor recruitment and retention across Africa, staff training, BECS system implementation, and research into successful donor centres. I am currently completing my degree in Business Administration with a major in Business Digital Transformation.
On 1 April 2025, 25 years after starting as a “postman,” I was appointed Contact Centre Manager, leading a national team of around 90 staff. I am committed to building a donor-centric Contact Centre that will enhance donor satisfaction and embrace digital tools to deliver exceptional service.
What support or development opportunities at SANBS helped you progress in your career?
During my time at SANBS, several support and development opportunities played a key role in my career growth. One of the most impactful was access to structured training programmes and ongoing professional development courses tailored to my role. These helped me build both technical and soft skills, boosting my confidence and effectiveness in daily operations.
I also benefited from the mentorship and guidance of senior colleagues and supervisors. Their willingness to share knowledge and offer support helped me navigate challenges and take on more responsibility.
SANBS also promoted internal growth by encouraging staff to apply for roles aligned with their career goals. The clear performance management system provided regular feedback, helping me identify areas for improvement and track my progress.
Together, these opportunities including training, mentorship, career mobility and a supportive environment helped shape my development at SANBS.
What advice would you give to fellow SANBS employees who are eager to grow within the company?
Take initiative by going beyond your daily duties. Volunteer, offer ideas, and look for ways to add value. Embrace continuous learning through SANBS’ training programmes to build both technical and leadership skills.
Build strong relationships by connecting with colleagues, seeking mentors, and collaborating across teams. Align your work with SANBS’ mission to ensure your contributions have impact.
Career growth takes time, so be patient, stay committed, and let your consistency and dedication speak for you.
Looking back, what achievement or moment in your SANBS journey are you most proud of?
One of the moments I’m most proud of was leading the introduction of the SANBS Benoni Branch. It meant establishing a branch in a high-need area, boosting collections during a critical period, and implementing improvements that motivated donors and met patient demand.
It pushed me beyond my comfort zone and proved what I was capable of. Contributing to the SANBS mission in such a meaningful way and knowing it made a real difference to patients and communities was incredibly fulfilling.
What excites or inspires you most about your future at SANBS?
What excites me most is the chance to keep making a real difference through meaningful work. Being part of a company that saves lives through safe blood collection gives me a strong sense of purpose.
I am also inspired by the passion of my colleagues. Working with people who truly care creates an energising culture that reminds me every day why I am proud to be part of SANBS.