About JFE
Building on four decades of innovation and expertise, JFE Group delivers trusted electrical, security, and property solutions across South Africa.
Our History
1981
JFE Electrical
(Ekermans & Engelbrecht) is founded.
The company specialises in designing and installing Electrical & Power Networks systems.
Serving commercial, industrial,
and residential sectors across
South Africa.
JFE quickly builds a reputation for reliability.
1986
JFE acquires
Van Vugt and Son Electrical (Pty) Ltd,
forming JFE Power Networks (Pty) Ltd and
incorporating it into the newly established
JFE Group.
JFE specialises in the complete design and implementation of LT & HT, underground and overhead cable networks, earning a reputation for detail and professionalism.
1994
JFE Group
expands into the building industry with the addition of
JFE Electronic Engineering (Pty) Ltd (JFE Security).
This follows the award of South Africa’s
first integrated prison electronic
security and management system.
JFE Security delivers turnkey solutions from design consultation to complete system installation and commissioning.
2004
JFE Group
establishes JFE Group Empowerment (Pty) Ltd
(JFE Industries) to enhance its contribution to
Broad-Based Black Economic Empowerment
(B-BBEE).
JFE Industries holds a CIDB 9EB-PE
rating, a Level 1 B-BBEE accreditation,
and actively supports all
JFE Group operations.
2018
JFE Group
establishes Capensis Empowerment (Pty) Ltd
(JFE Services) as an accredited training
facility focused on employee and broader
community skills development.
JFE Services provides health and safety training for electrical and construction sites, and it trains
public correctional officers to operate and manage
integrated security systems developed by JFE Security.
Board of Directors
The founder and CEO of the JFE Group, Johan Francois Engelbrecht is a self-starter and a dynamic entrepreneur.
> read more
As an industry leader, Johan’s tireless work ethic, energetic presence and hands-on approach has resulted in a trail of multi-million-rand achievements across various facets of the construction industry including Security management systems, Electrical, Reticulation and Manufacturing.
In 1981, Johan decided to plough his own furrow, he left Van Vugt & Son Electrical and ventured into his own business. He established JFE Electrical, marking the beginning of the JFE success story.
Johan Swart has been the Finance Director of the JFE Group for over a decade.
> read more
A qualified Certified Accountant, he holds a BCom from the University of the Free State, an Honours from UNISA, and a conversion from UCT.
Before JFE, Johan worked at Moore Stephens as a Senior Audit Clerk. Known for his dedication and commitment to the team, he’s a vital part of the Group. Outside of work, Johan enjoys kayaking, open water swimming, and trail running.
Abdullah Johnstone is a Director and Shareholder of JFE Industries, and also serves as Director of JFE Security.
> read more
He began working with JFE Electrical in 1990 after completing his apprenticeship and technical training at Athlone Technical College.
With a strong background in electrical contracting and a history of successful projects across sectors, Abdullah is a trusted leader. Raised in a close-knit family of ten siblings, he credits his values of honesty and hard work for his success.
Salama Moses is a Director and Shareholder of JFE Industries, leading the Group’s Project Financing efforts.
> read more
She began her career at JFE in 1988 as a buyer and credit controller and was part of the founding team of JFE Electrical. After a period of missionary work in Botswana, she returned to JFE in 2007 and was appointed Director in 2017.
Her deep commitment, strong values, and long-standing relationship with the CEO make her a vital part of the leadership team. Outside of work, Salama and her husband run a charity supporting the elderly and children in their community.
Nicole Maritz joined JFE in 2006 as PA to Johan Engelbrecht, CEO of JFE.
> read more
After 6 years under the CEO’s guidance and mentorship she advanced to Group Compliance Officer and Office Manager due to her leadership and problem-solving skills.
She further advanced in the past 15 years to the positions of HR and Compliance Executive of the JFE Group and forms part of the Senior Management Team of The JFE Group.
Bernard Jonker joined JFE in 2000 and became managing director and equal shareholder of JFE Reticulation in 2006.
> read more
He oversees daily operations including marketing, tendering, purchasing, and project execution, ensuring consistent profitability and client satisfaction.
Educated in Zimbabwe and South Africa, Bernard served in the SANDF and earned a technical diploma. He leads an active lifestyle, enjoys cycling, and has completed two Ironman events. He also owns a Klein Karoo farm with a self-built cabin and honey-producing apiary.
Dave Visser is joint Managing Director and Shareholder of JFE Electrical.
> read more
He joined JFE in 2009, bringing decades of experience in electrical engineering and project management. After starting his career in consulting, he transitioned to contracting in 1995 and quickly rose to director level.
Dave is passionate about the outdoors, enjoying rock climbing, white water kayaking, and relaxing with family under the African night sky.
Gideon Ackerman has 21 years’ manufacturing & construction work experience in the electrical and electronics fields.
> read more
He completed his National Higher Diploma at the Cape Technicon among the top 10 students of his class. Gideon lived and worked in Atlanta and Los Angeles for two years. He also completed installations in England, Australia, Bangladesh, and the UAE. Gideon is a hardworking, dedicated, and loyal individual. He is a natural leader who always has time to listen and definitely always has time for a quick prank to lighten the mood in the office.