"A great leader puts others before themselves": Ocean Basket CEO Grace Harding
Grace Harding, CEO of Ocean Basket, shared insights into her extraordinary journey and philosophies, along with her excitement for the upcoming MANCOSA Jacaranda FM Business Breakfast. With a diverse career and a heart for leadership, Harding shared her unique perspective on business and culture.
Jacaranda FM's Rob Forbes spoke to Grace Harding, CEO of the renowned South African seafood franchise Ocean Basket, about her pivotal role in the restaurant chain since she joined in 2012.
I joined in 2012 and began taking over in 2014. It was a gradual process.
Her role now encompasses overseeing a global roster, transforming Ocean Basket into a recognised name—even in Kazakhstan, where her team has established seven successful restaurants.
Revealing her work philosophy, Harding confessed, "I am a self-confessed workaholic… I don't switch off," highlighting the dedication required to lead a large enterprise.
READ: '60% of education is what you make of it': Prof. Mamokgethi Phakeng
Despite her demanding schedule, Harding insists that being present in the restaurants is crucial, underscoring the value of human connection.
It's about sharing stories and being in the trenches with your team.
Harding's journey is deeply intertwined with the people she works alongside. "It's about listening to others before you speak," she remarked.
Emphasising the significance of kindness and inclusivity, she noted, "A great leader puts others before themselves."
Her reflections on leadership will be central to her presentation at the upcoming MANCOSA Jacaranda FM Business Breakfast—an event she eagerly anticipates.
In a world increasingly dominated by technology, Harding advocates for a return to human-centric practices.
READ: Kaizer Chiefs marketing director shares how to successfully expand your brand
"The only thing we have left is ourselves," she asserted, dismissing the notion that leadership is solely about maintaining authority.
Instead, Harding believes it is about facilitating growth and kindness within the workplace.
Looking toward the future, Harding suggested, "Leadership skills are going to be the winning weapon" in an era where artificial intelligence and technology increasingly overshadow human roles.
As society shifts, she stresses the enduring importance of human values as the unique differentiator in business.
Grace Harding's passion for leadership and culture promises to offer invaluable insights at the MANCOSA Business Breakfast.
Whether you are a business leader or someone simply curious about the shifting dynamics of corporate culture, Harding's experiences and stories could provide the inspiration you need.
READ: Scientists detect biggest black hole merger as predicted by Einstein
Ultimately, leadership, for Grace Harding, is about more than strategy—it is about connection.
The MANCOSA Jacaranda FM Business Breakfast will showcase her in-depth perspective on leadership, offering attendees a unique opportunity to absorb her wisdom and apply it to their own lives and careers.
Perhaps Grace's greatest passion is this: helping others develop the art of being human, both in life and in business.
Don't miss the chance to hear from Grace Harding and other notable speakers as they share their stories and wisdom.
MANCOSA Jacaranda FM Business Breakfast
'Own Your Legacy' is the theme for the MANCOSA Jacaranda FM Business Breakfast 2025.
A breakfast event where influential leaders share their personal journeys of building impact that lasts. Four dynamic speakers will reflect on the theme of legacy — exploring how success, leadership, and purpose can shape the future beyond the present moment.
Speakers:
Grace Harding - Ocean Basket CEO
Focus: Leadership skills and the art of building a global brand
Graeme Codrington - Futurist
Focus: Current and future business trends, and will how AI can become your intelligent assistant.
Professor Mamokgethi Phakeng - Businesswoman and former Vice-Chancellor of UCT
Focus: The importance of education in preparation for the working environment.
Patrick Lambie - Former Springbok and property developer
Focus: Rugby career and the importance of flexibility in his transition into the corporate space.
Jessica Motaung - Marketing and Commercial Director of Kaizer Chiefs
Focus: How to build a resilient brand, navigate change, and lead in spaces where tradition and innovation constantly intersect.
The Event Details:
Event Date: 1st October 2025
Time: Registration starts at 07:30, event starts at 08:00 and ends at 11:30
Venue: Vodacom Dome, Vodacom Midrand
Ticket Costs: R600 for a Seat | R5,500 for a Table of 10
Theme: MANCOSA Jacaranda FM Business Breakfast | Own Your Legacy
Tune in to 'The Drive with Rob & Roz', on weekdays from 16:00 – 19:00. Stream the show live here or download our mobile app here.
Listen to Jacaranda FM:
- 94.2
- Jacaranda FM App
- http://jacarandafm.com
- DStv 858/ OpenView 602
Follow us on social media:
Image: Jacaranda FM