Born in Johannesburg, Gauteng, Michael Sieff’s journey from corporate corridors to the forefront of senior living innovation is nothing short of inspiring. From business successes to founding Circle Senior Living, he champions creating environments where residents “live their best life.” We find out more.
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A scholar with a diverse academic background, Michael holds qualifications in Psychology and Law from Wits University, an Honours in Industrial Psychology, an MBA from Heriot-Watt University in Edinburgh, and a certification in Executive Coaching from the University of Cape Town (UCT). This robust foundation reflects his relentless drive to better understand people, organisations and leadership.
His career has been marked by transformative experiences. He learned early on that “people want to be involved in a cause bigger than themselves”, a lesson that shaped his approach to leadership. Humility, vision, and tenacity are the cornerstones of his leadership philosophy, qualities he credits for guiding him through the complex landscapes of corporate, NGO and entrepreneurial ventures that he has experienced over the years.
Rising to challenges
One of his proudest achievements is his transition from corporate life to founding and growing Circle Senior Living, a brand born from vision and concept that now enables residents to “live their best life” in their later years.
This accomplishment reflects his belief in the power of resilience and innovation. Michael also led the turnaround of a struggling organisation, dedicating seven years to make it sustainable—an experience he describes as both challenging and rewarding.
Michael Sieff, Executive Director and Co-Founder of Circle Senior Living
His career is peppered with pivotal moments, often tied to stepping outside his comfort zone. He recalls roles that stretched his abilities, referencing the Peter Principle to highlight the importance of rising to challenges. Navigating constraints such as limited budgets amidst high demand honed his problem-solving skills and deepened his resolve to create meaningful impact.
Currently focused on expanding Circle Senior Living as an Executive Director who is actively involved in the day-to-day operations and business development, Michael envisions exporting South Africa’s senior living learnings to national and even international markets in the future. This expansive thinking reflects his commitment to scaling impactful initiatives. His influence extends beyond business, as the Chairman of ORT SA, he also actively contributes to NGO initiatives, manifesting his belief in giving back to the community.
Balancing a demanding career with one’s personal life is no small feat, but Michael finds strength in perseverance, a supportive wife and family, and his faith. Shabbat provides a much-needed pause, enabling him to recharge and refocus. Outside of work, he enjoys family time, staying fit, continuous learning and engaging in philanthropic efforts.
Michael credits his parents as his greatest role models, instilling in him the value of hard work. Influences such as Adrian Gore, with his laser-focused and innovative mindset, and Richard Friedland, whose meticulous preparation have also helped set an example, have all contributed towards shaping his professional ethos.
His advice to aspiring entrepreneurs and leaders is both practical and motivational. He says, “It’s never too late to start something new. After 145 no’s, you can get the yes that changes everything.” Michael hopes his legacy will inspire others to strive for congruence between personal and professional integrity.
If Michael could impart wisdom to his younger self, it would be this: “Do things in parallel. Don’t wait for things to be 100%. Take more risks.” His journey demonstrates that with perseverance, vision, and the courage to forge new paths, one can leave a lasting impact on the senior living industry and beyond.
The Circle Senior Living facility Sandown in Sandton.
