Full Name: Michael J Higley

Position: VP: Southern Africa Operations, FedEx Express

Main Activity of the Company: FedEx provides customers and businesses worldwide with a broad portfolio of transport, ecommerce and business services

Date and Place of Birth: November 6, 1958, Washington DC, US

Education: BSc (criminal justice), University of North Georgia; MSc (management), Indiana Wesleyan University

First Job: Police officer

Career History Prior to Current Position: I have been an employee of FedEx for 35 years and have held various positions within Operations in the US, South America and Europe. I have held a number of MD positions in Operations since 1990

Size of First Pay Packet: Not Stated

Number of People under Your Leadership: I am part of an executive team that manages a workforce of over 1 500 employees and a fleet of about 350 vehicles in 40 facilities across South Africa, Botswana, Malawi, Mozambique, Namibia, Swaziland and Zambia

Management Style: As a global company, FedEx embodies a culture that respects diversity and strives to develop all its employees to their fullest potential. I have an open-door policy and believe in working collaboratively with members of my team

Personal Best Achievement: Not stated

Professional Best Achievement: Not stated

Person Who Has Had the Biggest Influence on Your Career: Robin, my wife of 35 years. We have relocated 14 times throughout my career. Her ability to transition seamlessly into new locations and cultures, as well as her willingness to support me through each transition, has been the centre of my success

Person You Would Most Like to Meet: Not stated

Businessperson Who Has Impressed You Most: FedEx chairperson and CEO Fred W Smith

Philosophy of Life: I believe in giving back to the community where you live and work

Biggest Ever Opportunity: Not stated

Biggest Ever Disappointment: Not stated

Favourite Reading: Autobiographies

Favourite TV Programme: Blue Bloods

Favourite Sport: American university football

Favourite Website: www.iamfedex.com

Hobbies: Fly-fishing

Married: To Robin, since 1982

Children: I have three children and seven grandchildren