Women’s Month: Karin Whitaker

In the heart of Rovos Rail’s bustling operations, a stalwart figure has been present in the Accounts department for nearly three decades. Karin Whitaker fulfils the role of debt controller responsible for managing and allocating outstanding payments and addressing queries regarding the financial side of train bookings. It is a post she’s grown into over the years and one that she has become extremely skilled at through hands-on experience. “You learn as you go,” she quips with a knowing smile.

Karin’s association with Rovos Rail dates back to a chance opportunity in 1995 when she heard from a friend that the company needed extra staff to work as train hosts over the New Year’s weekend. Little did she know that weekend stint would evolve into a lifelong career spanning various positions within Rovos Rail, including front office manager and eventually finding her niche in finance.

Despite the demands of her job, Karin approaches it with a light-hearted spirit. “Asking people for money is my favourite part,” she jests. Beneath the humour, it is clear that Karin is passionate about Rovos and that it’s rewarding for her to play a role in helping the company thrive financially. “It is an honour to be a part of Rovos’ history seeing the company grow from just one train and 17 coaches when I began to six trains and 140 coaches today.”

A job with Rovos is always full of surprises, and Karin has had many memorable moments. “So many,” she laughs, “I think most of us could draft a book!” One of these saw the entire team on a comical chase down the train tracks at Capital Park wrangling Betty the ostrich back into the yard after she had escaped.

Beyond the numbers, Karin’s time at Rovos has been a journey of personal growth. Interacting with colleagues and passengers from diverse cultural backgrounds has instilled in her a deep sense of compassion and understanding. “Kindness and a smile can have an enormous impact on others,” she reflects. Close bonds have been formed with her colleagues over the years and they all have a deep fondness for Karin. “We really are family,” she explains, “and we have had so much fun together along the way.”

Of all the destinations Karin has travelled to during her time with Rovos, Namibia holds a special place in her heart for its breathtaking landscapes and natural beauty.

Karin is a devoted animal lover, volunteering at rescue groups and dedicating time to reuniting lost pets with their owners. At work, she watches over the resident animals, most of which are rescues: donkeys Romeo and Juliet, Tori the horse and the Nguni cattle, Camilla and Mia Bella as well as the late ostriches and alpacas. At home, she enjoys her own furry companions, a large collection of black cats. Another interesting tidbit is that Karin has an identical twin and boasts of being five minutes older than her sister!

Confident, strong and independent: Karin’s three-word self-portrait that aptly describes her character and approach to life. She takes pride in her ability to adapt to change, a skill that has served her well in the often unpredictable South African railway industry. As for her future, she simply aspires to find happiness in all facets of life.

With her dedication to her job and her vibrant personality, it is clear that Karin’s contribution is integral in keeping Rovos Rail on track. And her almost 30-year journey with the company is a testament to Rovos’ commitment to fostering long-term relationships with its team.

Written by Linda Sparks • Edited by Bianca Vos-Lynch