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With an undying entrepreneurial spirit, Mark Orpen founded IPD in 2000. His main area of operation is currently governance, while his primary responsibilities include governance, finance, strategy and marketing. Having completed a National Diploma in Marketing and Sales, another in Learning and Development and a National Higher Certificate in Occupationally-Directed Education, Training and Development Practices, Orpen has all the skills necessary to execute his duties as CEO of IPD. With a keen desire for the acquisition of knowledge, he has also completed training courses in International Network Marketing and Commercial Property Investment.

Orpen has an impressive employment history, including Berrington Properties, Plascon Paints, BarlowWorld, Palian Racking and Shelving, GNLD International, Congruence Training and many companies launched by Orpen himself. As a result of his vast education and experience, he is a sought after orator and has spoken at over 100 conferences over the last 20 years.

Orpen lists collaboration, innovation, new venture creation and entrepreneurship as his professional passions. He confirms that his professional goals include creating multiple and sustainable income streams through on-going enterprise development initiatives in the property, finance, technology, education and training, conservation and tourism sectors. These goals and passions have led to various awards being bestowed upon Orpen, including two National Innovation Awards and a Midrand Chamber of Commerce Best Company Award. Orpen has also been recognised as the Leading Training Provider of SDF Training, Learning and Development Practitioner Training and Recognition of Prior Learning Process Solution.