Joseph Rock

Executive Head: People & Performance Exxaro Resources

Joseph Rock is the Executive Head: People & Performance at Exxaro Resources, one of Africa’s leading diversified resources companies. With over 30 years of leadership experience across the public and private sectors, Joseph has built a reputation as a transformative executive who aligns people strategies with business performance and long-term sustainability. Joseph holds a BA (Hons) and an MA in Economics from the University of Essex (UK) and is a Chartered Accountant. His career journey includes serving as Chief Operating Officer for Human Capital at Absa, General Manager of Exxaro Services, Group Executive for Large Business at SARS, Associate Director with pwc and a decade as a Non-Executive Director at Shoprite Holdings Limited. Passionate about enabling leaders and employees to thrive, Joseph is recognised for leading large-scale cultural transformation, embedding ESG principles into business models, and driving governance excellence. He is respected for his ability to balance strategic foresight with authentic leadership, creating inclusive and purpose-driven cultures where people feel valued and empowered. His belief that “empowered people drive exceptional performance” anchors his commitment to developing talent, building sustainable partnerships, and ensuring that business success goes hand in hand with positive societal impact.