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Philisiwe Gumede Named First Black Woman to Lead The Oyster Box as General Manager
- Emily Goldfischer
- Sep 8
- 5 min read
When Red Carnation Hotels tapped Philisiwe Gumede to become the new General Manager of The Oyster Box in Durban, South Africa, it was history in the making. She is the first Black woman to lead the iconic five-star property. For Gumede, who was born and raised in Umlazi, just outside Durban, the role is not only a personal triumph but also a powerful signal to the next generation of South African women in hospitality: yes, it is possible.
Her journey has been anything but linear. She studied Hospitality Management at the International Hotel School, opened a resort in Abu Dhabi in her 20s, built a career in casinos and resorts with Sun International, and even managed a psychiatric hospital during COVID. Along the way, Gumede established herself as a disciplined, collaborative leader who thrives on structure, detail, and passion for people.
We caught up with Philisiwe to talk about her remarkable career, her leadership style, and what it means to be a trailblazer at one of South Africa’s most beloved hotels.
Where did you grow up and how did you first discover hospitality?
I was born and raised in Umlazi, Durban, the youngest of six children in a family that really valued education. My sisters all became teachers, but in high school I went to a career day that introduced me to the world of travel. That was it, I was hooked. I studied tourism first, then switched into hospitality management when the International Hotel School opened in South Africa. It was a three-year program where we worked while studying, so I got hands-on experience at Alpine Heath Resort and the Royal Hotel in Durban.
How did you build your career from there?
Dedication and discipline. I started at the Sandton Convention Centre in 2000, running some of the biggest events in South Africa. At 24, I moved to Abu Dhabi to open a beach resort as Rooms Guest Services Manager, then later to Dubai where I managed customer service for a Swiss interiors company during the city’s development boom. I stayed almost eight years before moving back to South Africa in 2009.
Since then, I’ve worked across tourism, hospitality, and even healthcare. During the 2010 World Cup I headed accommodation and served in the Tourism Grading Council of South Africa, representing KwaZulu-Natal & Eastern Cape. I oversaw casinos and resorts with Sun International, Peermont Global, managed operations at Sun City under Bidvest Prestige with a team of 1,200, and, during COVID, led a psychiatric hospital with 600 beds. That role was one of the most fulfilling of my career, but hospitality has always been my calling. In 2022, I returned to hospitality, Peermont Global and was eventually approached by Red Carnation for Oyster Box.
What does it mean to you to be the first Black woman to lead The Oyster Box?
It means everything. I take this role as a huge responsibility, not just for myself but for others like me. Behind the scenes, women, especially women of color, often have to work twice as hard to be taken seriously in male-dominated boardrooms. I have been the only woman at the table more times than I can count. But persistence pays off. To achieve this in my hometown, speaking the local language, and being recognized in my own community is incredibly meaningful.
You’re coming into a property where many on the team have been with The Oyster Box for decades. How are you approaching that dynamic as the new GM?
The longevity here is extraordinary. Some of the team have spent their entire careers at Oyster Box, and that consistency is part of the magic. Guests return year after year and are delighted to see the same familiar faces. My first priority was to listen and observe. I needed to understand not only the operations but also the culture, history, and pride that long-standing team members bring. My role is to protect that legacy while bringing a fresh perspective and new energy.
And when it comes to your leadership style, how do you define it?
I would describe myself as collaborative and structured. I like to be visible and present, not just behind a desk but on the floor with my team. Early on, I took my executive management team through an emotional intelligence workshop. It gave us the chance to step outside the hotel, talk about our strengths and development areas, and see one another as one. That is now being rolled out to their support teams as well. It builds trust and creates team effectiveness. Structure and discipline are important to me, but equally so is motivating people, making them feel seen, and leading alongside them.
What excites you most about leading The Oyster Box now?
This hotel is iconic. We have 86 rooms, two restaurants and three bars, a three-story spa, and a team deeply committed to the guest experience. Guests return year after year because of the consistency of service and the warmth of our people. My job is to honor that legacy while planning for the future, making sure Oyster Box stays at the top of South African hospitality for years to come.
You’ve spoken about inspiring the next generation. How do you see your role as a mentor?
It is a huge responsibility. When young people, especially Black South Africans, see me in this role, they see what is possible. My niece just completed her matric and told me she wants to study hospitality because of me. That is powerful. I am passionate about internships and learnerships, making sure students get exposure to the industry. Representation matters. I want young women to see that they, too, can lead iconic properties.
What’s next for you?
I’m finishing my MBA, and have just one module remaining - research and dissertation. Beyond that, I’d like to serve on boards and committees in tourism and hospitality to share my knowledge and experience. And in the next five years, I see myself in an even more senior leadership role. The journey continues.
Quickfire with Philisiwe Gumede
What’s your morning routine? I’m up early with my five-year-old daughter and grandson, I get them ready for school and drop them off, head straight to the hotel. My day starts with an 8 a.m. team briefing, then I’m out greeting guests at The Ocean Terrace restaurant.
How has motherhood shaped your career? Motherhood has strengthened my skills in time management, prioritization and adaptability. Balancing work and family has enhanced my ability to approach challenges with patience and perspective. It has positively influenced my professional growth.
Best career advice you’ve received? Give your best and work with passion, but don’t forget to celebrate the wins along the way, balance is what keeps you motivated.
How do you practice self-care? Prayer and baking. I’m a Christian, so fasting and prayer bring me peace when I’m stressed. And when it’s been a really tough day, I bake scones. It is therapeutic, and my family loves them.
Any favorite podcasts or inspirations? I love Wisdom & Wellness by Mpumi Ledwaba. She brings on guests from all walks of life and the conversations always leave me feeling grounded and inspired.
