About
SAMRA is a non-profit, voluntary association of research organisations and researchers in the data, research and insights industry. SAMRA was established in 1963 to ensure professionalism amongst researchers (incl. sharing ideas and new developments) and to promote the effective use of marketing research by decision-makers. SAMRA is the only recognised self-regulatory professional body for market research in South Africa. The purpose of research is to ensure innovation, access to information, and economic growth – it’s our purpose to ensure that happens at the highest level.
Our stakeholders include members of the public, suppliers and clients/users of data, research, advisory and consulting services and evidence-based insights (including our members), the media, legislators, related industries and associations, potential and new entrants, and education and training providers.
SAMRA’s goals and objectives are to:
1. Grow the data, research and insights industry:
Proactively market, advocate for and lobby on behalf of the industry
Strategically manage talent at industry level to meet demand
2. Enhance quality and professionalism
Promote the professional development of practitioners
Provide industry-specific input into the Southern African learning system
Protect the public, and monitor and self-regulate ethics in the industry
3. Deliver stakeholder value:
Offer value-adding products and services to the industry
Ensure adequate representation of the industry with government
Maintain effective systems and processes to manage operations
The SAMRA Office is responsible for the day-to-day operations of the association and the organisation is managed by a Board of Directors whom are elected by the members at the Annual General Meeting.
Meet the SAMRA team below:
Board of Directors
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Grant Lindhorst
Grant Lindhorst is the current Chairman of the SAMRA Board of Directors. With over 20 years’ marketing research experience, Grant has worked for some of the larger research agencies both locally abroad in various sectors and cultures, from the Amazon in Brazil to Saudi Arabia. He enjoys working in multi-cultural environments and running large cross-market research projects.He took over the leadership of a boutique CX research agency REACT Customer Research, continuing to engage his two additional passions; understanding what makes people tick and building growth through sound strategy. As an experienced expert, he has come to understand that many corporate decisions are taken without the guidance of research, and therefore, is an ambassador for the research industry - promoting the relevance and importance of market research.
chair@samra.co.za
Faye Joubert
Faye Joubert is the current Treasurer of the SAMRA Board. She joined the world of research after decades as a client of research methodologies underpinned by her love of customer experience and of change driven out of empirical data. She saw an opportunity to bring her decades of operational leadership to bear on a highly technical and analytical environment.
She is a founder member of two telcos - serving on their startup teams and operated in the highly competitive outsourcing space. She is described as having grit, tenacity and a can-do outlook.
She brings a fresh perspective in her role as a SAMRA board member and has a declared interest in serving its members, growing its constituency and ensuring adherence to SAMRA’s mandate.
finance@samra.co.za
Arnold Samuels
As the MD of Curiouser , and with 14 years engaged in research, it is just in Arnold’s nature to be continually curious, and delivering insight has become part of his DNA As the Director of Small Business and Freelance Suppliers at SAMRA, he strives to balance thought leadership with entrepreneurial spirit and expert support. Arnold is passionate about helping businesses connect with consumers in a way that is authentic and relevant.
events@samra.co.za
Lebo Motshegoa
Lebo has been in the research industry for 16 years. He is a regular speaker on various media platforms. Having worked in advertising & print media prior to market research he has a well-rounded view on not only insights and strategy but also communications and marketing. He is a linguist and published author of the award winning Township Talk Dictionaries. Lebo also holds a RCCE consultancy role for the World Health Organization (WHO) on provincial COVID-19 related matters. His key passion is attracting and nurturing fresh young talent into research industry, especially those from disadvantaged backgrounds.
communication@samra.co.za
Jacolize Poalses
Jacolize is a senior researcher at the Bureau of Market Research (Pty) Ltd (BMR) at the University of South Africa (Unisa) and heads the Behavioural and Communication Research Division. She started her academic and research career at the BMR in 2010 and prior to that worked as psychometrist and management development consultant. She completed her MA Research Psychology degree in 2012, and holds a PhD degree in Psychology (2022). Being inquisitive by nature, the conglomeration of research and psychology focus areas are well-suited to her passion for research. Her research includes consumer and business behaviour studies, and she has a keen interest in research focusing on psychological wellbeing, happiness, and the role of emotion in decision-making to establish the influence of environmental and social factors on people. She trusts that her personal views complement SAMRA’s views to represent members and our evolving industry.
profession@samra.co.za
Charles Sithole
Charles Sithole is a dynamic and forward-thinking researcher, renowned for his innovative vision in the realm of market research. He has rapidly emerged as a leading voice in the evolution of the industry through pioneering methodologies. With a unique blend of youthful energy and cutting-edge insight, Charles has established himself as a trailblazer in transforming traditional approaches. He exemplifies exceptional leadership and a deep commitment to advancing the field. In addition to his professional achievements, he is a strong advocate for innovation, constantly pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in market research. His contributions continue to inspire and influence peers, cementing his status as a key player in the ongoing evolution of the industry.
marketing@samra.co.za
Elsa Thirion-Venter
Elsa Thirion-Venter, co-managing director of MarkData has research experience in various fields of research such as psychological evaluation of drivers, test construction, survey methodology and media and communication research. She started her career at the Human Sciences Research Council as a researcher in the Human Resources group and later as Survey Manager at MarkData. In 1993 she was appointed as a Research Manager: at the SABC. In 1996 she moved back to MarkData as one of the owners. She holds a MBL (1998) and D Litt et Phil (Consulting Psychology) (2011) from Unisa. She is registered as a research psychologist at the Health Professions Council. She is also a SAMRA (Southern African Marketing Research Association) Accredited Researcher (SAR) and a SAMRA Honourary member. She was the Chairperson of the Pretoria SAMRA branch, treasurer and Chairperson of SAMRA National and is currently the chairperson of the SAMRA Ethics Committee.
governance@samra.co.za
Nuala Harris-Morele
Nuala loves finding solutions to challenges, particularly the problems nobody else wants to solve, such as those with complex sampling and uncharted design, as not knowing how things will end up is exciting. She currently heads up the KANTAR Media business for Sub-Saharan Africa which includes the Return Path Data (RPD) service across various markets. Nuala is particularly passionate about providing complex data to trade on across all media platforms, from traditional TV, radio and print to everything digital. While new platforms and cross-platforms add an interesting dynamic to measurement, they are also crucial in helping us understand how consumers’ lives are changing and how media owners and brands can better meet their needs today to inspire future growth.
representation@samra.co.za
Jill Solomon
Jill Solomon is a distinguished professional with over three decades of experience in marketing, research, and customer relationship management (CRM). She has held pivotal roles in various high-profile companies, such as Sun International, IBM and Siemens, as well as Markinor (now Ipsos), Jill’s impressive track record includes leading relationship marketing at Sun International, where she served as Group Relationship Marketing Manager, later advancing to oversee customer insights and services. Most recently, Jill has opened 90th Century, her own marketing research, customer experience and media consultancy.
Her expertise in CRM strategy and digital transformation has been instrumental in establishing Jill as a seasoned strategist and leader. Jill is an active SAMRA Accredited Researcher and has been a longtime member of the South African Marketing Research Association (SAMRA), serving as a Chairman and Johannesburg Branch Chairman. Her commitment to advancing the marketing research field includes conducting training sessions on marketing research fundamentals and relationship marketing for industry professionals.
Jill holds a BA Honours in Psychology (Cum Laude) from Randse Afrikaanse Universiteit, a Bachelor of Arts from the University of the Witwatersrand, and an IMM Certificate in Marketing Management. Her wealth of experience spans diverse industries such as hospitality, media, finance, and healthcare, making her a versatile and respected leader in marketing research and CRM. Jill’s dedication to community service and professional excellence aligns with SAMRA’s mission to foster innovation and integrity in the research industry.
committees@samra.co.za
Kezia Sheik
Kezia is the Managing Director at Plus 94 Research. She joined the company in 2009 and has grown within the organisation, perfecting her skills and expertise in the business. She is known amongst her peers for being driven and results oriented. By applying her problem-solving skills, she optimises workflows by fostering collaborative teamwork amongst staff members whilst ensuring compliance with industry standards. With a strong grasp of financial and operational management, Kezia plays a key role in shaping the organisation’s strategic direction and executing policies that align with its goals.
Kezia holds a bachelor’s degree from the University of the Witwatersrand and is currently pursuing a postgraduate diploma in business administration at Wits Business School. Outside of her corporate role, Kezia serves as a board member of her church, contributing to its expansion plans, outreach initiatives, and event coordination.
An introvert at heart, she finds joy in peaceful activities such as home improvement, reading, and creative tasks that challenge her mentally and physically.
Kezia’s leadership is defined by her ability to inspire teams, champion innovation, and consistently deliver operational excellence, showcasing her unwavering commitment to upholding and advancing standards of excellence.
infrastructure@samra.co.za
Catherine Chiweshe
Catherine is an accomplished Office Manager at SAMRA, leveraging over a decade of comprehensive experience in office management, administration, and customer service. Throughout her five-year tenure at SAMRA, she has developed her leadership skills and a proactive approach to achieving the association’s goals. Her diverse background spans both corporate and non-profit organisations, where she has honed her goal-oriented approach and unwavering commitment to customer satisfaction. Holding a BA Honours in English and Communication Studies, Catherine thrives in fostering productivity and enhancing customer experiences. She is passionate about furthering her expertise through ongoing research qualifications. A true advocate for excellence, Catherine’s unique blend of skills and determination ensure that she meets every challenge head-on, leaving no stone unturned in her quest for impactful outcomes and excellent customer satisfaction.
info@samra.co.za