Our Team
Management
John is the Chief Executive Officer for Galetti and brings an in-depth knowledge of the South African property market. John gained significant experience during the global crisis in restructuring and portfolio rationalisation for our clients in the private sector. John’s property knowledge is extensive having consulted with global clients on development proposals and existing office and industrial leases and sales.
“"I think this is the beginning of a beautiful friendship" - Casablanca”
John Jack
CEO
With 20 years of experience across SA, Africa, and Europe in multiple real estate sectors including architecture and investment, and 11 of those in Corporate Real Estate Services, Simon has a wealth of experience and knowledge in the wider real estate sector. Simon has specialized in occupier services (globally and locally) for the last 9 years with a focus on strategy, transaction management, portfolio administration, and tenant representation.
““It’s only rock n roll but I like it.” - The Rolling Stones”
Simon Wilkins
MD | CS
Francois is a Co-Founder and Director of Galetti since 2006. He obtained NQF4 in property and studied a diploma in marketing from the IMM. With over 20 years of experience in all aspects of commercial property sales and sales management, asset management as well as financial and legal deal structuring and advisory, Francois is at the forefront of leading Galetti into more success.
““I do not think there is any other quality so essential to success of any kind as the quality of perseverance. It overcomes almost everything, even nature.” - John D. Rockefeller”
Francois Staples
Director | CPT
Alison Gerber holds a BCom and BCom Honours in Management Accounting from Stellenbosch University and is a qualified CIMA, ACCA CGMA professional. Her career spans both large corporate banks and fast-paced startups, where she developed a strong sense of resilience, adaptability, and a collaborative way of working. At Galetti, Alison is eager to continue learning and contribute meaningfully to the team and the business. Outside of work, she enjoys reading, spending time with her dogs, and relaxing with friends and family.
“‘The only way to do great work is to love what you do’ – Steve Jobs”
Alison Gerber
CFO
Antoinette pursued her passion in real estate after achieving a Bcom in Entrepreneurial Management degree from the University of Johannesburg. She joined Galetti in 2012 in an administrative role and became an integral part of the company very early on. She quickly climbed the ladder and was appointed head of operations in 2016 which played a vital role in the company’s growth to-date. Ant was appointed Head of Leasing and Investment Services for Gauteng at the beginning of 2020 which was a strategic move to achieve the significant growth we have planned for this year. She brings incredible experience, knowledge, and drive to the Gauteng team and we can only imagine what she will achieve in this new role.
“If you are persistent you will get it. If you are consistent, you will keep it. - Harvey MacKay”
Antoinette Chait
COO
Wesley, who has played a significant role in the company since 2012, was appointed Western Cape Regional Head of Global Corporate Services in early 2019 and will be responsible for building the team across SA. He has spearheaded some of our most notable deals within the GCS division and has developed trusted and respected relationships within the industry.
““We represent something much bigger than we can imagine.” - Siya Kolisi”
Wesley Cowan
MD | CPT Auction
With a decade of experience in the commercial property sector, Cameron brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to the field. His ability to work in various industries and regions throughout Johannesburg has given him a diverse range of clients, including AdvTech Group, Kellogg, Helios Towers, Moore, Pivotal Group, Vulatel, Hauwei, among others. Driven by the fast-paced nature of the property industry and the challenge of finding solutions to deal obstacles, Cameron is excited to take on new challenges every day. He holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Development and Environmental Studies from Stellenbosch University and a postgraduate degree in Commercial Property from the University of Cape Town. His education, diverse experience and passion for the field makes him a valuable asset to any team looking to succeed in the commercial property sector.
““Not in doing what you like, but in liking what you do is the real secret to happiness” - JM Barrie”
Cameron Smith
MD | JHB Broking
With a strong background in advertising and marketing, honed by a degree with an honours in brand communication, Ricardo brings a unique perspective to the field of property development. After several years working in the advertising industry, his passion for property led them to make a career change. Specializing in the fast-paced and deadline-driven world of auctions, Ricardo has spent nearly a decade honing his skills and knowledge in this field, this is seen in his holding of “Top Broker” title for 5 years. Currently holding the position of Director of Auction, he has extensive experience working with high net-worth individuals, property funds, and private companies, with a proven track record of success. Ricardo’s ability to thrive in a high-pressure environment, combined with his marketing and communication expertise, makes him a valuable asset our team.
““Opportunities don't happen, you create them.” - Chris Grosser”
Ricardo Gomes Da Silva
MD | JHB Auction
Kate completed her honours in marketing after achieving a BCom in business management at the University of Pretoria. She joined Galetti in mid 2021 as a content creator & manager and was appointed head of marketing at the end of 2021. Over and above her marketing skills, Kate is an experienced photographer, videographer and digital content creator. She believes in prioritizing collaboration over competition and is passionate about incorporating authentic content and modern trends into traditional marketing concepts and strategies.
“"If a man knows not to which port he sails, no wind is favourable" - Seneca”
Kate de Wet
Head of Marketing
David Arton-Powell has over 9 years of experience managing commercial property brokerages, solving client’s problems and has a background in Finance and Insurance, having studied Property Development and Finacial Management via UCT and UNISA. This makes David well-versed in the nuances of the industry, and business. David believes that commercial property services are essential to any economy and takes pride in providing a professional and enthusiastic service to clients and his team. He combines his wealth of experience in leasing and sale transactions with his passion for providing exceptional service, ensuring that his team is able to find the right property for their clients.
“"If one does not know to which port one is sailing, no wind is favourable." – Lucius Annaeus Seneca”
David Arton Powell
MD | CPT Broking
Justin, entered the Corporate Real Estate business in 2011 straight out of university. What intrigues him the most about property is the vast amount of sectors the industry services. This exposure to a variety of sectors has contributed to skills that positively impact his ability to assist clients with their property needs. Starting as a broker and then moving into Capital Markets have given him a well-rounded spectrum of experience to continue delivering results in the Corporate Real Estate sector.
““In business as in life, you don't get what you deserve, you get what you negotiate.” - Chester L Karrass”