Francis Herd is one of South Africa’s most respected journalists and a leading business-focused event emcee, known for her credibility, poise and ability to communicate complex information with precision. With nearly 20 years of experience in broadcast news, she has become a familiar and trusted presence on SABC News, where she co-anchors the flagship Fullview programme during the influential 5pm to 8pm slot. Her journalistic experience combined with her MBA allows her to bridge the worlds of economics, politics and public affairs with sharp analysis and calm authority.
Throughout her career, Francis has covered some of South Africa’s most defining moments, including the passing of Nelson Mandela, multiple national elections and global developments shaping the country’s economic landscape. Her reporting and interviews span both local and international spheres, offering audiences insight into major global conversations. She has conducted in-depth interviews with global leaders and industry heavyweights including Bill Gates, Antonio Guterres, Thomas Piketty and Howard Schultz, demonstrating her ability to draw out meaningful perspectives from world-class thinkers.
As an event emcee, Francis brings journalistic discipline to the stage: thorough preparation, engaging dialogue, crisp moderation and an unwavering focus on audience value.
Francis Herd stands as a beacon of trust and credibility in the realm of broadcast journalism, commanding attention as a familiar face on the nightly news. With nearly two decades of immersive experience in the dynamic field of broadcasting, she has carved an indelible mark on South Africa’s media landscape. As the co-anchor of the esteemed Full view program on SABC News, airing during the pivotal 5pm to 8pm slot, Francis embodies excellence and authority, particularly in the domain of business news. Her unique blend of journalistic acumen and academic prowess, underscored by her MBA qualification, sets her apart as a formidable force in the industry.
Francis Herd’s journey to prominence is marked by a rich tapestry of experiences and accomplishments. Armed with an MBA, she brings a sophisticated understanding of business dynamics to her role as a journalist, offering nuanced insights into the intricate intersections of commerce, politics, and society. Within the Full view program, Francis not only excels in delivering incisive business analyses but also adeptly navigates the tumultuous currents of current events, politics, and breaking news, reaffirming her versatility and relevance in an ever-evolving media landscape.
Her illustrious career has seen her covering pivotal moments in history, from the somber passing of Nelson Mandela to the seismic shifts of multiple elections and the high-stakes gatherings of the World Economic Forum in Switzerland. Francis’s journalistic mettle shines brightest in her engagements with both local luminaries and global titans, including illuminating conversations with figures of immense influence such as Bill Gates, Antonio Guterres, Howard Schultz, and Thomas Piketty. Through her adept interviewing skills, she deftly navigates complex subject matter, distilling profound insights and perspectives for her audience with clarity and poise.
Francis’s unparalleled ability to decode the complexities of the modern world, coupled with her captivating storytelling prowess, ensures that audiences are not just informed, but inspired to action. Whether dissecting the nuances of economic trends or unraveling the intricacies of global geopolitics, Francis Herd promises to deliver a riveting, intellectually enriching experience that resonates long after the event concludes.
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In this 2-hour Business Day Dialogue — hosted in partnership with the International Labour Organization — Francis Herd demonstrates why she is one of Africa’s most trusted moderators in business, economics, and public policy.
As anchor and facilitator, Francis sets the tone with clarity and authority, guiding a high-level panel through one of the most important conversations shaping Africa’s future: how the workplace is transforming post-COVID-19.
1. Exceptional command of complex subject matter
Francis effortlessly synthesizes global and African trends — from hybrid work and labour shifts to regulation, digital access, productivity, and gender dynamics. Her business-anchored perspective allows her to surface the most relevant insights for corporate and public-sector audiences.
2. Sharp, structured facilitation
She frames the discussion with precision, introduces each speaker with strong contextual grounding, and maintains thematic flow — ensuring the session moves logically from data to implications to policy action.
3. Inclusive, interactive engagement
Francis invites live questions, brings audience voices into the conversation, and positions the session as a two-way dialogue. She keeps the panel connected to real-world concerns, not just policy theory.
4. Calm authority in high-stakes, technical conversations
Moderating senior figures from the ILO, Business Unity SA, and labour policy specialists, she remains composed, neutral, and incisive — asking targeted questions that draw out meaningful analysis rather than surface commentary.
Speaker fees can vary depending on factors such as expertise, demand, and event specifics. While some speakers may charge a flat fee for their services, others may have hourly rates. It’s best to discuss fee structures directly with the speaker or their representative to understand the pricing model.
Virtual speaking appearances can indeed offer cost savings compared to in-person events. Virtual speaking rates are often 10-50% cheaper than in-person rates due to factors such as reduced travel expenses and logistics. This makes virtual events a cost-effective alternative for organizations looking to book speakers within a budget.
Keynote speeches typically range from 30 to 90 minutes, with the duration determined by the speaker’s expertise, the event’s agenda, and audience preferences. Keynote speeches often include a combination of inspirational stories, practical insights, and actionable advice tailored to the event’s theme or objectives.
The scale of the event and audience size can indeed impact a speaker’s fee. Larger events with a broader reach or higher attendance may command higher fees due to increased exposure and demand. Conversely, smaller events or niche audiences may offer opportunities for more flexible pricing arrangements.
Travel expenses such as transportation, accommodation, and meals are typically negotiated separately from the speaker’s fee. These costs vary depending on the speaker’s location, travel distance, and event duration. It’s important to clarify travel arrangements and expenses during the booking process to avoid misunderstandings.
Many speakers require a deposit to secure a booking, with the remaining balance due closer to the event date. Deposits are often non-refundable and serve as a commitment from both parties. It’s advisable to discuss deposit requirements and payment terms with the speaker or their representative when finalizing the booking.
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