With 24 franchises, scattered across the Western Cape, Johannesburg, KwaZulu-Natal and even Namibia and Zimbabwe, Windovert has become the leading supplier of window coverings in South Africa.

Selling an impressively large range of products (which continues to expand) such as blinds, shutters, folding doors, security products and motorised window coverings, this well-established brand has set the bar high when it comes to coupling quality products with excellent service.

But this thriving company wouldn’t be where it is today without the help of Windovert founder, Jean Hubert – who is still as actively involved in the business as he was when he first started it in 1969.

In our attempt to uncover his secret to success, we decided to interview him. Here’s what he had to say…

Up Close & Personal With Windovert Founder, Jean Hubert

Windovert Team: Where did you grow up?

Jean Hubert: I was born in Cameroon and grew up in the restless city of Johannesburg.

Windovert Team: What Tertiary institution did you attend and what did you study? 

Jean Hubert: I had the privilege of attending Wits and Stellenbosch, where I attained my bachelor of science in Civil Engineering. I completed a Masters in Philosophy at Stellenbosch University (distance learning). This set me on the path to thinking as a futurist not to be confused with a fortune teller.

Windovert Team: Do you have any hobbies?

Jean Hubert: Yes, whenever I find the time, I enjoy unwinding with activities like tennis, golf and mountain biking.

Windovert Team: Do you have a favourite quote or perhaps words that you live by?

Jean Hubert: It would have to be ‘Carpe Diem’. I firmly believe in making the most out of the present moment and not getting too caught up in future concerns.

Windovert Team: If you could, what would you tell your younger self, regarding business? 

Jean Hubert: I would say, ‘Believe in yourself more and never be afraid to take risks.’

Windovert Team: What do you believe has kept Windovert running for all these years?

Jean Hubert: I believe that every business has to constantly evolve along with the changing needs of its market. I think the desire for continual improvement and the hard work and dedication of countless managers and employees has helped Windovert blossom into the company that it is today.

Windovert Team: What do you believe has been the key to Windovert’s success? 

Jean Hubert: I would definitely attribute our success to our forward-thinking approach to business.

Windovert Team: What is your favourite part of the job? 

Jean Hubert: I love the idea of providing people with employment and - in turn - knowing that they are able to feed their families.  

Windovert Team: In your opinion, what makes Windovert stand out from other window covering companies? 

Jean Hubert: There are two main components that set us apart: our experienced consultants and having the widest range of products from all the major suppliers in the country.

So, to sum it all up for you, Jean’s key ingredients to success are thinking ahead, planning ahead, having confidence in yourself and not being afraid to take risks. Interviewing Jean has been rather enlightening, and it just goes to show that there are no shortcuts to success. We’re lucky to have his leadership and we’re excited to see where his forward-thinking takes us in future!