Staff Writer
O&L Leisure, the hospitality division of the Ohlthaver & List (O&L) Group, has appointed Maryke van Lill as managing director, effective 1 March 2026. Van Lill simultaneously joins the O&L Group executive team, marking a significant milestone for her career and the business.
Van Lill brings more than 15 years of diverse experience across marketing, brand strategy, innovation and client leadership. Most recently serving as O&L Leisure’s general manager for marketing, she was the driving force behind the “Namibia Through Our Eyes” platform, a philosophy that has redefined how O&L Leisure presents Namibia to local and global travellers. Under her stewardship, the portfolio’s storytelling evolved into a compelling and authentic expression of Namibia’s landscapes, people and spirit.
“I am confident that Maryke’s passion for crafting extraordinary guest experiences and her authentic, caring and passionate leadership style will continue to inspire a commitment to excellence across the business,” said Sven Thieme, executive chairman of the O&L Group. “Maryke’s appointment is a testament to the depth of talent within O&L and I look forward to watching her guide the business and the team to realise Vision 2029.”
As managing director, van Lill will lead O&L Leisure’s strategic direction with a focus on sustainable growth, premium brand positioning and deepening the company’s role as a preferred destination marketing partner across Africa. Her leadership will be anchored in growing intra-African tourism, strengthening trade and travel agent partnerships and continuing to champion Brand Namibia as a world-class hospitality destination.
“I am deeply grateful for the trust the executive committee (Exco) placed in me to take on this immense responsibility. I would like to emphasise my commitment to ensuring that our business is well cared for and that our teams continue to feel supported, valued and heard,” said van Lill. “Our O&L Persona will remain the daily guide in our leadership and decision-making. Together with our strong senior leadership team, we will continue to craft extraordinary experiences that showcase Namibia through our eyes.”
Van Lill’s appointment underscores O&L Leisure’s commitment to nurturing homegrown talent and building leadership that is deeply aligned with its values, its people and its vision for the future of Namibian hospitality.
