Nazim Cassim

Founder & CEO, Retail Institute of South Africa

Nazim Cassim is a highly respected figure in the retail industry with over 35 years of experience. As the Founding Member of the Retail Institute of South Africa (RISA), Nazim is at the forefront of professionalizing South Africa’s retail sector through competency-based training, micro-credentialing, and industry-recognized qualifications.

With 29 years at Massmart, Nazim previously served as VP for Gen Merch, Food and Liquor at Game and served on the Massdiscounters board. He played a pivotal role in the turnaround of Massmart’s ailing DIONWIRED business when he served as MD. Post his tenure at Massmart, he launched the global appliances BEKO brand in partnership with Arcelik Group in SA.

Nazim is also an advisor on the University of Johannesburg’s Academic Board, contributing his expertise to the advancement of retail education. He serves on the executive Steerco of the Wholesale and Retail Sector for Education and Training (W&R SETA). He is currently the CEO of Network Retail Solutions MEA, A consumer electronics distribution company with offices based in Dubai. As a final year doctoral candidate, Nazim’s academic pursuits further underscore his commitment to the growth and evolution of the retail industry.

As sought-after keynote speaker, Nazim is widely recognized for his thought leadership and his ability to inspire innovation in retail. His dedication to workforce development and strategic partnerships continues to shape the industry’s future. On the outside, he is an open water advanced scuba diver and loves exotic locations for an adventure dive, and an avid reader of Philosophy.