Gordon Alexander Hooper

MD, Bateleur Brand Planning (Pty) Ltd

Gordon Hooper holds a BSc in Civil Engineering from the University of Natal and an MBA from Wits Business School. Transitioning from engineering to market research and advertising in the mid-1980s, he developed deep expertise in applying research to commercial brand strategy.

In 1988, he founded Bateleur Brand Planning, providing bespoke market research, brand planning, and employee engagement services to major South African enterprises. Recognising a business need for dedicated strategic environments, he launched the Horizons Leisure & Learning Sanctuary in 2010 to facilitate leadership workshops and corporate seminars.

Beyond commercial facilitation, Gordon actively mentors postgraduate students researching brand management and leadership. A forwardthinking professional interested in technological and social trends, he balances his career with diverse personal pursuits—including astrophotography, jazz guitar, and artisanal food production—and family life with his wife and four children.