Prudential People - Meagen Burnett, Chief Operating Officer

Tell us what your role comprises and why you enjoy it…
My role is to ensure that we have the right people, systems and processes to operate a successful, scalable investment management business. I enjoy it as it is very diverse and allows me to work with a great team of people in designing and implementing systems that enable our business to deliver to our clients. No two days are the same.

Your ambition during your school days…
I always wanted to represent South Africa at the Olympic Games.

What was the first job you ever did?
Counting machinery stock in the Koffiefontein diamond mine, wearing a hard hat. That’s the first and the last time I’m going down a mine. It was part of my holiday job, conducting audits for Deloitte & Touche in Kimberley, my home town.

What is your favourite time of the day and why?
I have two: 5:30am when I set off for my morning run with “The Committee” (my running group) and 6pm when I get home to spend time with my husband and two children. 

Where did you spend your last holiday?
On the KZN coast and game parks with my family. 

What do you do to relax?
Trail running, playing with my children and socialising with family and friends. 

What is your number-one bucket-list activity?
Skiing in the Alps with my friends and family.

The difference between being 30 and 40 is…
I have not had much experience of my 40s, but if the last few months are anything to go by, it looks like the pace, challenges and new experiences are all still on the up.

Beer or Champagne?
Definitely Champagne.

Who is your hero and why?
Desmond Tutu. I respect the way he speaks his mind, his value system and his commitment to always pushing for what is right versus what is popular. And, of course, his infectious laughter and sense of fun.

If you were a superhero, what powers would you have?
Apparition. It’s the magical transportation mechanism used by wizards like Harry Potter. I would like to be able to snap my fingers and move immediately from one place to another. It would be particularly useful in managing the daily balancing act of home and work and, of course, keeping in touch with friends in other countries.

The Beatles or the Rolling Stones?
The Beatles. 

In 10 years, what will you be doing differently?
Slowing most things down, I hope, except running! I hope I will maintain the health and insanity I have now, to be able to continue running up mountains – albeit a bit slower. 

Who would you want to play you in a movie of your life?
Cameron Diaz. She is a “liver and lover of life and laughter”.