Lize Mccourt

Lize McCourt serves as the Chief Operating Officer at South African National Parks (SANParks), where she plays a pivotal role in steering the organization towards its strategic objectives while ensuring the effective execution of its mandate. With a robust background in the leisure, travel, and tourism sectors, Lize brings a wealth of experience in operational management, particularly in the context of environmental conservation and sustainable tourism. Her leadership is characterized by a strong commitment to Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) principles, which are integral to SANParks' mission of preserving South Africa's natural heritage while promoting responsible tourism.

In her current role, Lize oversees key projects that align with SANParks' vision of fostering nature conservation and education. She is instrumental in developing and implementing innovative business strategies that not only enhance operational efficiency but also elevate visitor experiences across the national parks. Her expertise in integrated environmental management ensures that SANParks remains at the forefront of conservation efforts, balancing ecological integrity with community engagement.

Lize's strategic leadership extends to enterprise risk management, where she adeptly navigates the complexities of public sector governance to mitigate potential challenges. Her problem-solving skills and creative strategy development have proven invaluable in addressing the dynamic needs of the tourism industry, particularly in the wake of global challenges such as climate change and the COVID-19 pandemic. Through her dedication to training and capacity building, Lize empowers her team and stakeholders to embrace sustainable practices, ensuring that SANParks not only meets its operational goals but also champions the cause of environmental stewardship for future generations.