OUR LEADERSHIP TEAM
At Northbound Processing, our leadership team brings together decades of expertise in finance, law, tax, and communications to drive strategic growth and operational excellence. Each member plays a pivotal role in shaping the company’s vision and ensuring its success in a competitive and dynamic industry.
Ernie Lai King
- Chairman
Ernie Lai King is a leading tax and corporate law specialist with more than four decades of experience in structured finance, mergers and acquisitions, and international cross-border. He was the group tax consultant of two major listed top 20 companies, and served as Head of Tax and Asia-Africa practice group for several Top 4 Law Firms. He has extensive experience in the commercial sector. He was awarded the Dealmakers annual awards 2013 – Individual Dealmaker of the Year (SA), authored the South African Chapter of the Cambridge University Press Treatise, “A Global Analysis of Tax Treaty Disputes”, convened by the London School of Economics, and was a Member of the Income Tax Special Court of Appeal (a State President appointment). As Chairman at Northbound Processing, Strategic Ernie’s strategic insights and experience make him a key asset in navigating complex financial and commercial landscapes.
Dr. Duarte F. da Silva
- Managing Director
Dr. Duarte F. da Silva is a seasoned investment and financial strategist with over 30 years of experience in corporate finance, equity capital markets, and asset
management. His expertise spans capital raising, mergers and acquisitions, and
corporate governance, making him a trusted advisor in the financial sector.
Currently serving as Managing Director of Northbound Processing and Chairman of multiple investment firms, Dr. da Silva brings analytical precision and strategic insight to business growth initiatives. With a PhD in Engineering, he combines technical expertise with deep industry knowledge to drive high-impact financial solutions. His leadership and commitment to excellence make him an invaluable asset to Northbound and its partners.
Daniel de Wet Hayward
- Head of Legal, Compliance & Governance
Daniel de Wet Hayward is a highly experienced attorney and legal expert with over 30 years in corporate and commercial law. Specialising in private equity, mergers and acquisitions, and cross-border transactions, he ensures regulatory integrity and governance excellence at Northbound Processing.
As Head of Legal, Compliance & Governance, Daniel provides strategic oversight, ensuring Northbound operates with the highest standards of legal and regulatory compliance. An admitted solicitor in England and Wales, his strong legal acumen and extensive experience in African markets position him as a cornerstone of Northbound’s leadership team.
Mduduzi Maqubela
- Head of Stakeholder Relations & Communications
Mduduzi Maqubela is a strategic communications and stakeholder relations expert with over a decade of experience in media, corporate branding, stakeholder and reputation management. As Head of Stakeholder Relations & Communications, Mduduzi leverages his expertise in crisis management, thought leadership, and communication strategy to ensure Northbound maintains a strong and credible presence in the industry. As former senior journalist and television producer, he has cultivated extensive networks across business and government sectors. Beyond his corporate role, he leads a communications agency specialising in stakeholder management and media strategy. His ability to craft compelling narratives and drive impactful engagement makes him a key asset to Northbound.
Our Collective Strength
Together, the Northbound Processing leadership team combines deep industry
knowledge, strategic vision, and a commitment to excellence to deliver innovative solutions and drive sustainable growth. Their collaborative approach ensures that Northbound remains a trusted partner for clients and stakeholders in the financial and corporate sectors.