In conversation with Marlene Pillay
STANDARD BANK
view, the biggest challenge and opportunity for South Africa lies in addressing this critical shortage across the property and construction value chain. “We need to take a very active role as corporate leaders in retaining and repurposing critical skills,” she asserts. “You need to get your workforce to start embracing adaptability, cross-functional thinking, and continuous
compliance. Now it is about strategic integration into assets, valuations and tenant attraction. It is essential for competitiveness.” A recurring theme in Marlene’s thinking is skills. She worries about South Africa’s shortage of skilled labour in construction, design, and facilities management. In her
Department of Energy Security and Net Zero to offset certification costs for developers. She explains, “Many buildings are green but not certified. This funding helps cover that gap. It changes behaviour by making certification viable.” For Marlene, sustainability has moved beyond compliance. “It started with
impact. The benefit is there, the evidence is there to back it.” The bank recently raised $250m from the International Finance Corporation to expand access to financing for green buildings and promote sustainable construction within South Africa’s real estate sector. The facility is backed by a grant from the UK’s
Castle Gate Precinct in Pretoria
October 2025 | Issue 141 | Asset Magazine 157
156 Asset Magazine | Issue 141 | October 2025
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