Cape-based business systems solutions specialist DVT has opened a Johannesburg office, to be headed up by former Software Futures MD Derek Hughes, to provide a comprehensive regional presence for the company`s growing number of Gauteng-based clients.
Following five years of considerable success in Cape Town, DVT founders Chris Wilkins and Clive Hubbard recognised the need for a presence in Gauteng, the unquestioned economic powerhouse of Africa. Since 2002 DVT has been pursuing opportunities long-distance from Cape Town.
"DVT found the opportunities for aggressive growth limited by the size of the Cape market and the restricted range of suitable business opportunities," says Wilkins. "We were very successful but on a relatively small scale, and decided that we needed a local presence with local market knowledge to become a serious industry player in Gauteng. We were delighted to join forces with former competitor, Derek Hughes, who is a respected and acknowledged leader in the software development market."
Hughes previously managed Software Futures, one of the country`s largest and most successful software development companies, and now provides business acceleration services through leadership solutions company, Cycan.
With 20 years` experience in the software solutions industry, from technical to executive management, Hughes will perform the role of CEO for DVT Gauteng and leverage his skills in technology-driven innovation, strategic use of IT and depth of local client knowledge to accelerate the business.
As a boutique player in the software market, DVT specialises in building technology-enabled business systems solutions and providing related professional services to a blue-chip client base. The company operates a progressive, owner-managed business model that avoids top-heavy management structures and ensures a hands-on approach to initiatives.
The company has a broad client base, including Old Mutual, ABSA, MortgageSA, 20Twenty, MUA Insurance, Truworths, Total South Africa, British Royal Mint and the Medical Research Council.
"Our initial focus includes solutions development on Microsoft platforms and related technologies, after which we plan to expand into other areas," says Hughes.
During its growth phase DVT Gauteng will use a distributed development model to take advantage of the company`s 50-strong team in Cape Town. Hughes anticipates a steady growth curve for the Gauteng operation, creating an operation of similar size to DVT Western Cape within two years and continuing to expand. DVT Gauteng already has six significant clients across the financial services, retail and petrochemical sectors.
"We are receiving a very positive response from client and employees in the Gauteng market to our pragmatic and efficient approach to projects," says Hughes.
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