Open to opportunities

Ellen Yolanda van der Berg

@ellenyolandavanderbe

Message

I am an experienced law enforcement leader in investigations and security

South Africa

Message

What I'm looking for

I seek senior roles in investigations, security or operational management where I can lead teams, improve compliance, deliver community-focused programs, and apply financial and supply-chain expertise to drive measurable results.

I am a senior law enforcement leader with a long career in policing, investigations and operational command, having led units from station operations to provincial support and supply chain functions. I combine frontline investigative experience with executive-level administration.

I have managed budgets, procurement, asset and fleet management, human resources and compliance while directing crime analysis, prevention programs and community outreach initiatives, including disaster relief and youth education. I produce detailed investigative reports, lead fraud and risk assessments, and implement policy and audit processes to improve service delivery.

More recently I founded a consulting firm and transitioned into financial and wealth planning, applying my leadership, risk management and client-facing skills to help individuals and organisations meet strategic objectives. I am practical, community-focused and driven to lead teams that strengthen security, compliance and operational efficiency.

Experience

Work history, roles, and key accomplishments

Current

Financial and Wealth Planner

Current

Eq Fin

Jan 2025 - Present (8 months)

Provide comprehensive financial planning and wealth advisory services, developing customized plans covering budgeting, insurance, retirement, tax and estate strategies to build clients' long-term wealth.

Financial Planning Wealth Management Retirement Planning Insurance Estate Planning Client Relationship Management Financial Analysis Tax Planning

Director, Berg Investigation and Consulting

Berg Investigation and Consulting

Jan 2023 - Jan 2024 (1 year)

Founded and directed a private investigations and consulting practice conducting investigative research, fraud detection, risk assessments and confidential report writing for clients.

Investigation Fraud Detection Risk Assessment Report Writing Data Analysis Background Checks

Lieutenant Colonel (Support Head)

South African Police Service

Jan 1991 - Jan 2023 (32 years)

Managed station-level operations and support functions including supply chain, budget and finance, HR, crime information analysis and operational command; led crisis responses to civil unrest and natural disasters.

Leadership Supply Chain Management Human Resources Crime Analysis Risk Management

Education

Degrees, certifications, and relevant coursework

Professional Training and Certifications

Professional Development and Certifications, Security and Investigations

1991 - 2023

Activities and societies: Notable trainings include Security Training Grades A–E, MLP Security Training Grade A, UN peacekeeping and gender-based violence modules, middle management officers program, mentorship and disciplinary courses, and Microsoft Office training.

Undertook multiple professional courses and certifications across policing, security, and UN peace operations between 1991 and 2023, including security grades A–E and UN specialized modules. Training covered investigations, leadership, logistics, gender-based violence prevention, and financial/procurement management.