Recorded Interview With Hector Doans, COO
Hector Doans, COO and Board Director of Scientia Holdings Property Fund (Pty) Ltd, is a seasoned executive with over 25 years of experience in asset management, operational strategy, and large-scale transaction execution. Known for his analytical precision and strategic foresight, Hector has been instrumental in shaping Scientia’s operational excellence and ensuring the successful execution of its growth strategies. Over the course of his career, he has managed asset portfolios, gaining a reputation as an industry leader in optimizing complex operations and driving sustainable growth. His journey to becoming COO at Scientia began in the mining and resources sector, where he spent a decade at Anglo American, overseeing multi-disciplinary projects and refining his expertise in asset management and operational scalability.
As COO of Scientia, Hector’s role extends far beyond day-to-day operations. He is responsible for implementing the firm’s vision and ensuring that every aspect of its portfolio is aligned with long-term objectives. Hector’s ability to integrate operational efficiency with financial performance has been a key driver of Scientia’s success. He has led the firm’s transition from a predominantly property-focused portfolio to a diversified investment strategy spanning multiple high-growth sectors, including technology, healthcare, and industrials. His deep understanding of risk management and resource optimization allows him to create operational frameworks that create value creation while minimizing exposure to inefficiencies. Hector’s pragmatic yet innovative approach ensures that Scientia remains agile and competitive in an ever-evolving market.
Hector’s leadership style is rooted in collaboration and empowerment. He firmly believes that an organization’s success is driven by the strength of its team, and he is committed to creating an environment that encourages innovation, accountability, and continuous learning. “A cohesive and empowered team is the backbone of any successful organization,” Hector explains. At Scientia, he has been instrumental in building a culture that prioritizes both operational excellence and individual development. By aligning the firm’s operational practices with its core values, Hector ensures that Scientia’s growth is not only profitable but also sustainable and impactful. His leadership has been pivotal in establishing Scientia as a trusted partner for investors and stakeholders alike.
When discussing his time at Anglo American, Hector highlights the invaluable lessons he learned about managing assets in volatile markets and optimizing operations across diverse geographies. These experiences have equipped him with the skills to navigate complex challenges and implement solutions that drive measurable results. At Scientia, Hector applies this expertise to every facet of the firm’s operations, from portfolio management to post-acquisition integration. One of his proudest achievements has been streamlining Scientia’s operational processes, enabling the firm to execute transactions more efficiently and deliver enhanced value to its investors. “Operations may not always be in the spotlight, but they are what sustain and scale any successful investment strategy,” Hector emphasizes.
Hector’s passion for operational excellence extends beyond the firm. He is a strong advocate for responsible and sustainable business practices, ensuring that Scientia’s investments align with ESG principles and create long-term value for communities and industries. His focus on sustainability is not just about meeting regulatory requirements; it is about setting a benchmark for what responsible investment should look like. Hector believes that private equity has a unique role to play in driving positive change and is committed to ensuring that Scientia remains at the forefront of ethical and impactful investing. His dedication to these principles has earned him widespread respect within the private equity and asset management communities.
Looking to the future, Hector is excited about Scientia’s plans to expand its portfolio and deepen its impact across Southern Africa and beyond. He sees significant opportunities in sectors such as renewable energy, digital infrastructure, and manufacturing, areas where operational efficiency and scalability are critical to success. Hector’s vision for Scientia is one of balanced growth, where the firm continues to deliver financial returns while making a meaningful difference in the industries and communities it engages with. “Our goal is not just to grow but to grow responsibly and sustainably,” Hector says. With his expertise and leadership, Scientia is well-positioned to achieve this vision, solidifying its reputation as a leader in private equity and a force for positive change.