Born and raised in Modimolle, Limpopo, he knew growing up that he wanted to create and to become a leader. Some of this ambition was due to his family. The youngest of three brothers, his older siblings were already deeply involved in the engineering industry, and Diederik was similarly drawn in that direction.

“I always wanted to create and build something out of nothing, and it was this desire that fuelled my pursuit of a career in engineering,” he relates.

After matriculating from Hoërskool Nylstroom, Diederik pursued his degree in mechanical engineering at North-West University in Potchefstroom. That was just the beginning of a diverse career that revolved around problem-solving and innovation.

Upon graduating, his first steps on his career path were as a consulting engineer, specialising in structural and mechanical engineering within the industrial sector. After gaining valuable experience in this role for three years, Diederik decided to pivot towards Building Services Consulting Engineering, specifically focusing on HVAC systems, by joining a dynamic small to medium-sized firm.

“During my tenure at this consulting engineering firm, I immersed myself in diverse projects spanning commercial, retail, data centres, healthcare and clean room facilities. This period was instrumental in enhancing my technical expertise and project management skills across various sectors,” he elaborates.

Ten years later, with considerable experience under his belt, Diederik set his sights on joining WSP, drawn to the company due to its reputation for innovation and excellence in engineering solutions. It was here that the ambitions from his childhood - to create and to lead – converged.

“At WSP, I discovered my passion for leading high-performing teams to deliver exceptional projects,” he explains.

One such example that he is deeply involved in, is co-leading WSP Africa's efforts on its global Battery Manufacturing projects. This, he notes, is a ground-breaking area with immense potential. In addition, he serves as the Discipline Lead for the HVAC, Medical Gases, and Industrial Utilities Department at WSP Africa.

“This multifaceted role allows me to blend technical expertise with leadership, driving forward transformative, innovative, and future ready solutions in the field of engineering,” he enthuses.

For Diederik, his career path now, and his role in WSP in particular, is centred around excellence. While his typical day is dynamic, promoting excellence in a variety of ways is the common thread. He elaborates that this encompasses inculcating technical excellence, by leading teams to deliver high-quality, innovative, and future-ready Battery Manufacturing projects, and it also entails furthering operational excellence. Along with his duties in project leadership, he also manages the day-to-day operations of his department.

“This includes optimising our business strategies, overseeing commercial management, and ensuring that our department achieves financial targets. By streamlining processes and enhancing efficiency, we aim to deliver projects effectively while meeting our financial goals and maintaining client satisfaction,” he explains.

No less important, another aspect of his day-to-day work life is dedicated to engaging with clients, preparing proposals, and nurturing relationships. He stresses that understanding clients' needs is key to providing tailored solutions and building lasting partnerships.

The fourth and final way in which Diederik fosters excellence is through prioritising creating a positive company culture within his department. This entails emphasising employee well-being, professional growth, and collaboration.

“I believe that supporting the well-being of our team members is crucial to fostering a productive and motivated workforce,” he stresses.

When not working and pursuing engineering excellence, Diederik's foremost priority is spending time with his wife and newborn daughter, who bring him immense happiness and fulfilment. Alongside these cherished moments, he enjoys activities such as going for a jog, engaging in CrossFit workouts, or exploring hiking trails and mountain biking trails. Additionally, music serves as another passion and source of relaxation for him, taking the form of playing guitar and singing in his church band. His life, multi-layered and many-faceted, finds its centre in the love and joy shared with his family.