When Florence Pillay first walked through the doors of Super Tyres in November 1995, she could never have imagined that she would still be proudly serving the company three decades later. Today, the 54-year-old Bookkeeper at Super Tyres’ Head Office in Durban celebrates an incredible 30 years of dedication, growth, and purpose, a journey that has been as much about personal fulfilment as it has been about professional achievement.
Florence’s story began under the mentorship of the company’s founders, Robert James (Bob) and Jocelyn Horn, who hired her as a “Girl Friday” to assist with banking, payroll, and bookkeeping for their property companies. Within months, her sharp attention to detail and exceptional work ethic earned her a promotion to manage the cash banking for all 12 retail stores. Nine months later, she rose to the position of Bookkeeper, overseeing payroll, human resources, and bookkeeping for the entire Super Tyres Group and its subsidiaries.
Over the years, Florence has continued to adapt to change and challenge, from working under new management teams to embracing the digital transformation of accounting systems. One of the biggest transitions came in 2024 when the company further restructured into 17 distinct entities, each operating as its own independent company. Today, Florence continues to oversee the bookkeeping for all of them, including the group’s property ventures, ensuring financial accuracy and accountability at every level.
“I am deeply grateful for the opportunities I’ve been given and for the trust placed in me by our visionary leaders, Mr. Dean Horn, Mrs. Tracey Desaunois, Mrs. Leslie Vivian Purvis-Bush and our Senior Management teams.” says Florence. “It’s been a journey of growth, resilience and faith, and I am proud to have played a part in the success of an organisation that is like family.”
Her excellence and consistency have not gone unnoticed. Florence was named Administrator of the Year in 2019, a coveted award only given once to an employee, and has received several awards for perfect attendance, including a Raving Fan certificate in 2025, a reflection of her unwavering dedication.
What she enjoys most about her job, Florence says, is the challenge. “The ability to test my capacity and rise above it gives me great satisfaction. I enjoy the variety and the opportunities to learn something new every day. This year has reminded me of the importance of resilience, dedication, patience and tolerance, the fundamental cornerstones for moving forward, together.”
Outside of work, Florence lives in Montford, Chatsworth with her husband of 33 years, Manuel, her “soulmate and partner in ministry.” Together, they are actively involved in leadership at their local church. Their daughter, Dr. E. Angel Pillay, is a Veterinarian and the pride and joy of their family.
As she looks toward the future, Florence hopes to step into a senior management role within finance, administration, or payroll. “I am passionate about mentoring and supporting others in their professional journeys, and guiding and leading them to their individual path to God,” she says. “My goal has always been to be a blessing to my family and to others. By sharing knowledge and encouraging my colleagues, I believe we can create a workplace where everyone thrives.”
When asked about the key to her success, Florence’s answer is simple but powerful: “Love, trust, hope, and faith. Those are the foundations. I believe in continuous learning, in turning challenges into opportunities, and in doing everything with a heart of gratitude.”
For Florence, happiness lies in gratitude, faith, and integrity. “Put God first, take pride in who you are and what you do, and always be reliable, honest and loyal despite the odds,” she shares. “We are all on a journey to make an impact and leave a legacy. Enjoy the process and the progress, and always be the gem you are.”
After 30 years of service, Florence’s legacy at Super Tyres is one of devotion, diligence, and grace, an inspiring reminder that success is built not just through hard work, but through heart.
