Biography
Julian Conrad commenced his professional career in 1986 as a geotechnical geologist modelling slope stability of an open-cast mine in Namibia (previously South West Africa). Subsequently, he transitioned to the research industry (the CSIR), and has acquired 34 years of experience in managing groundwater resources. His proficiency is predominantly in groundwater management, encompassing groundwater exploration, yield and quality assessments, monitoring, legal compliance, and integrated water resource assessments. He has a Masters’s Degree in geohydrology and GIS from URI (USA). In 2001, he established GEOSS South Africa (Pty) Ltd, headquartered in Stellenbosch, with a staff of 32 employees. Currently, Julian serves as the Managing Director of the company. GEOSS South Africa focuses mainly on Hydrogeology projects within South Africa but also extends to international projects in countries such as Namibia, Botswana, DRC, Mozambique, Saudi Arabia, Côte d’Ivoire, Sweden, and Denmark. He also worked extensively with local and national government departments. He has mentored numerous young hydrogeologists who now hold senior positions in their companies, both locally and internationally. Supporting peers and mentoring future leaders is integral to what he does. He has also served on various committees, GWD MANCO and IAH_SA EXCO BOARD and is a member of various professional bodies.
Personal statement
Julian Conrad has been involved with the IAH since 1990. Initially as an IAH member and then as part of the organising committee of the IAH2000 Congress held in Cape Town, South Africa. Thereafter, his involvement remained with the IAH and also the Groundwater Division of South Africa. He has played a role in being Chairperson, Treasurer or Secretary or serving on the MANCO of these organisations for a number of years. Julian was co-chair of the organising committee of the IAH2023 Congress, held once again in Cape Town, South Africa. Over the years, Julian has attended a number of the IAH Congresses in various beautiful cities around the world. With the IAH2023 Congress, Julian was also responsible for the development and management of the entire Congress budget and the securement of sponsorships. It is with this depth of knowledge, that Julian is applying for the post of Vice President for Finance and Membership. Management of organisational finances and ensuring current members are maintained through providing “value-for-money” as well as generating new members to join the organisation are activities he is familiar with. Julian is keen to extend and apply this knowledge to the Executive Committee of the IAH. An organisation he is committed to serving.
