Brief
Black Umbrellas names Jerome Eckles executive director as it enters new phase
The appointment aims to accelerate digital outreach, deepen partnerships and grow job creation across South Africa.
By Felo News Desk · Published
Black Umbrellas announced on 7 Oct 2026 that Jerome Eckles will assume the role of executive director on 1 Oct 2026, succeeding a decade of internal leadership experience.
What happened
Eckles joined the organisation in 2015 as a regional manager, later becoming general manager of coastal operations and most recently general manager of entrepreneur development. His new mandate includes expanding the programme’s digital reach, deepening ecosystem partnerships and scaling support for Black‑owned enterprises.
What the reports add
The BizCommunity report details Eckles’ career trajectory, his hands‑on engagement with entrepreneurs, and the strategic priorities he outlined for the next chapter of Black Umbrellas.
What was said
“It is a real honour to step into this role at Black Umbrellas,” Eckles told BizCommunity. “As we look to the future, the focus will be on accelerating our digital reach, deepening our ecosystem partnerships, and scaling our support for Black‑owned businesses to drive long‑term economic growth and job creation across South Africa.”
How it came about
Board Chair Rajesh Sukha highlighted Eckles’ institutional knowledge and his ability to provide immediate leadership continuity, noting the organisation’s partnership with the Cyril Ramaphosa Foundation will continue to supply operational support and coaching.
Key facts
- Jerome Eckles appointed executive director of Black Umbrellas effective 1 Oct 2026 (bizcommunity.com)
- Eckles has been with Black Umbrellas since 2015, most recently as general manager of entrepreneur development (bizcommunity.com)
- His priorities include expanding digital reach, deepening partnerships and scaling support for Black‑owned businesses (bizcommunity.com)
Sources
- [1] bizcommunity.com — originally reported as “Black Umbrellas appoints Jerome Eckles as executive director to lead its next chapter - Cyril Ramaphosa Foundation”
