Stepping Beyond the Comfort Zone: Johanet Gericke's Journey in Crane Hire
What began as an administrative position more than two decades ago has grown into an inspiring leadership career for Johanet Gericke, General Manager for the Northwest Province at Johnson Crane Hire. Her journey reflects the power of curiosity, perseverance and the willingness to embrace opportunities that challenge both personal and professional boundaries.
Johanet joined Johnson Crane Hire in July 2006 as a Hire Desk Administrator, believing administration was where her strengths lay. However, it wasn't long before the world beyond her office window captured her attention. Watching complex lifting operations come together sparked a curiosity that soon became a passion for the lifting industry.
"I wanted to understand everything," she recalls. Recognising her potential, a Regional Manager encouraged Johanet to step beyond her comfort zone and pursue opportunities she had never imagined for herself. His belief in her abilities proved to be a turning point, inspiring her to take on new challenges and build a career she never expected.
Over the years, Johanet progressed through a number of key roles, including Sales Representative, Branch Manager and now General Manager. Reflecting on her career, she credits Johnson Crane Hire with not only investing in her professional development but also creating an environment where dedication, hard work and potential are recognised.
"Twenty years later, I'm still learning, still growing, and still passionate about the lifting industry," she says. One of the defining moments in her career came when she made the transition from administration into sales. Leaving behind the security of an office environment to work in a highly competitive, traditionally male-dominated field was both challenging and rewarding.
Looking back, however, she regards her appointment as General Manager as one of her proudest achievements. "It wasn't just a promotion," she explains. "It was proof that years of learning, perseverance and consistency really do pay off." Like many women entering the lifting and crane hire industry, Johanet faced the challenge of establishing credibility early in her career. Walking onto mining sites as a woman was not always met with confidence, but she chose to let her work speak louder than assumptions.
"Instead of trying to prove people wrong with words, I focused on learning my business, understanding my customers, asking questions and delivering on every promise I made," she says. Over time, her technical knowledge, integrity and consistency earned the trust of customers, colleagues and the teams she leads today. For Johanet, one of the greatest rewards of the lifting industry is that every day brings something different. "No two days are ever the same," she says. "One day you're helping solve a customer's critical lifting challenge, the next you're planning a major shutdown or celebrating a team's success after completing a complex lift safely."
She believes the industry is about far more than cranes and equipment. At the heart of every successful project is a team of dedicated people working together to solve problems and deliver results. Throughout her career, Johanet has also witnessed encouraging progress for women in the industry. When she first entered the sector, women in operational and leadership positions were relatively uncommon. Today, she believes there is greater recognition that diverse leadership strengthens organisations and improves decision-making.
"Women are increasingly being recognised for their expertise rather than simply being 'the woman in the room,'" she says. "Although there's still progress to be made, the opportunities available today are far greater than they were twenty years ago."
When asked what has contributed most to her success, Johanet points to perseverance.
"I've learned that setbacks, difficult days and challenges are part of every career, but giving up is a choice," she explains. "Every obstacle has been an opportunity to learn, adapt and come back stronger." While her promotions have been rewarding, she says her proudest achievement has been helping others grow. "Seeing someone develop in confidence, step into leadership or achieve something they didn't think was possible is incredibly fulfilling. Success means even more when you can help others succeed too."
Looking ahead, Johanet remains focused on growing the Northwest region while developing the next generation of leaders within Johnson Crane Hire. She is passionate about creating opportunities for others, just as those around her once created opportunities for her. Her advice to young women considering a career in the lifting industry is both practical and inspiring. "Don't wait until you feel completely ready. Learn everything you can, ask questions, stay curious and be willing to do the hard work. Most importantly, don't try to become 'one of the guys.' Bring your own strengths to the table. Authenticity, resilience, empathy and professionalism are powerful leadership qualities."
Johanet's story is a powerful reminder that careers are rarely built by staying comfortable. Through resilience, continuous learning and the courage to embrace every opportunity, she has forged a remarkable career while inspiring those around her to do the same. Her journey continues to demonstrate that true leadership is measured not only by personal success, but by the positive impact made on others along the way.
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