Ansie Smith

Wilderness Group Operations Quality Standards Manger

Qualified in Procurement and Logistics, Ansie’s Wilderness journey began in 2008. She is excited for her new role, where her focus will be on developing a comprehensive service quality and standards strategy across the business, while striving to create unforgettable guest experiences in every Wilderness camp.

Born and raised in Windhoek, Namibia, Ansie holds fond childhood memories of her time spent in nature and at the coast with her family. After completing her schooling, she moved to Cape Town and pursued her lifelong passion for horses, obtaining qualifications in Horse Mastership and Teaching. From this, Ansie proceeded to run her own riding school, specialising in show jumping and dressage.

Furthering her studies, Ansie obtained a Masters (MSc) degree in Procurement, Logistics, and Supply Chain from the University of Salford, UK in 2022. This qualification laid the foundation for her professional journey.

Ansie’s Wilderness adventure began in 2008, initially as a runner for Wilderness Namibia’s PAs. Swiftly progressing, she assumed the role of Camp PA for the North-West, Palmwag Concession and Lianshulu. She was promoted to Procurement and Logistics Manager in 2012. Ansie later left the industry to explore the field of property valuations before venturing back to the bush as Procurement Manager for Ongava Game Reserve. In 2020 Ansie returned home to Wilderness as Hospitality Support Manager.

The role of Hospitality Support Manager was a highlight of Ansie’s career – a position that resonated with her love for self-development and connecting with nature. Working alongside an incredible training team, she was grateful for the opportunity to positively impact our staff. Working in Wilderness camps and being surrounded by nature had her smiling every day.

Ansie’s next Wilderness chapter began in 2023, when she was appointed to the role of Wilderness Group Operations Quality Standards Manager. Ansie enjoys working in the dynamic Wilderness environment and looks forward to her new challenge, noting, “I feel privileged to be part of a business that is constantly evolving, while staying committed to their core purpose of protecting our wild areas and at the same time offering guests unforgettable experiences. I look forward to the future of Wilderness and being a part of this amazing team”.