The purpose of the research was to assess the strategic management process of a water utility in South Africa. The research focused on Midvaal Water Company, a section 21 water utility based in South Africa, North West Province town of Klerksdorp. The objectives of the study were; (a) to assess the organisational level of knowledge when it comes to SMP, (b) to determine different perceptions with regards to SMP between management and employees, (c) to determine the organisational profiles (age, gender, educational qualifications, race and employment type). Literature review was conducted covering the South Africa water framework paying particular attention to different role players and legislative framework governing the sector; the latter included the strategic management process of a water utility as applied in the Midvaal Water Company context. The research approach was quantitative methodology, which involved distribution of questionnaires as part of field work in the water utility. Questionnaires were analysed through statistical approach, and further linked back to the problem statement. The questionnaires were also tested for Validity and reliability which was found to be acceptable. The results indicate that there is a correlation between strategic management process and organisational results. The results also provide interesting relationships between variables that can be explored further. In conclusion successful implementation of strategy requires both leadership and employee commitment. More effort needs to be put in place to ensure that there is an understanding of company values mission and vision. As part of the succession planning the water utilities should consider succession planning as a tool to develop future leaders, by identifying future potential leaders and involving them in the strategy crafting process can help in creating a pool of competent future leaders that will contribute to the well being and sustainability of the water utility. / MBA, North-West University, Potchefstroom Campus, 2015

The purpose of the research was to assess the strategic management process of a water utility in South Africa. The research focused on Midvaal Water Company, a section 21 water utility based in South Africa, North West Province town of Klerksdorp. The objectives of the study were; (a) to assess the organisational level of knowledge when it comes to SMP, (b) to determine different perceptions with regards to SMP between management and employees, (c) to determine the organisational profiles (age, gender, educational qualifications, race and employment type). Literature review was conducted covering the South Africa water framework paying particular attention to different role players and legislative framework governing the sector; the latter included the strategic management process of a water utility as applied in the Midvaal Water Company context. The research approach was quantitative methodology, which involved distribution of questionnaires as part of field work in the water utility. Questionnaires were analysed through statistical approach, and further linked back to the problem statement. The questionnaires were also tested for Validity and reliability which was found to be acceptable. The results indicate that there is a correlation between strategic management process and organisational results. The results also provide interesting relationships between variables that can be explored further. In conclusion successful implementation of strategy requires both leadership and employee commitment. More effort needs to be put in place to ensure that there is an understanding of company values mission and vision. As part of the succession planning the water utilities should consider succession planning as a tool to develop future leaders, by identifying future potential leaders and involving them in the strategy crafting process can help in creating a pool of competent future leaders that will contribute to the well being and sustainability of the water utility. / MBA, North-West University, Potchefstroom Campus, 2015