Marco Schepers | Director | Andersen in South Africa
Marco Schepers stands as a prominent figure in the world of compliance and regulatory practice, shaping the way organizations view governance, data protection, and business integrity. As a Director at Andersen in South Africa’s Johannesburg office, he leads the firm’s Regulatory practice with a deep focus on corporate and commercial law, mergers and acquisitions, and regulatory compliance. His expertise extends to data protection and privacy, where he plays a key role in helping companies navigate complex legal frameworks while staying competitive in fast-evolving industries. At EliteX, we are proud to have Marco Schepers as part of the edition: Impactful Compliance Leaders to Watch, 2025.
Marco’s career has been built on the belief that compliance is more than just a box-ticking exercise.
“Compliance is not about limiting business growth – it’s about enabling it responsibly,” he says.
This philosophy has guided his work with clients across heavily regulated sectors, where understanding local laws and international regulations is crucial to successful transactions and sustainable operations. His ability to blend legal insight with strategic foresight has made him one of the most trusted advisors in South Africa’s corporate landscape.
His journey into compliance and risk management began through his extensive experience in corporate and commercial law. Working closely with clients involved in mergers and acquisitions naturally introduced him to the critical role of compliance. “Many of my clients operated in industries where risk management was not optional,” Marco reflects. “Helping them navigate regulations and mitigate risks became an integral part of ensuring their success.” This experience laid the foundation for his transition into a field that blends law, technology, and strategy.
Over the years, Marco has witnessed a rapid transformation in the global regulatory environment, driven by new laws, digital innovation, and cross-border complexities. He has embraced this evolution by expanding his focus on data protection and privacy, particularly in light of South Africa’s Protection of Personal Information Act (POPIA) and Europe’s General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR). His insights into the impact of artificial intelligence on compliance have been particularly forward-thinking. As he notes, “Technology is reshaping compliance at every level – from data security to consent management. We must evolve as quickly as the risks do.”
In leading Andersen’s regulatory team, Marco leverages advanced tools and technology-driven solutions to support data maturity assessments, gap analysis, and third-party risk management. He emphasizes that automation and digital monitoring are not only improving efficiency but also ensuring accuracy and accountability. By integrating compliance into strategic business decisions, Marco ensures that companies see regulation as an ally rather than an obstacle.
Looking ahead, he identifies emerging trends that will shape compliance in 2025 and beyond. These include the growing intersection of data privacy and artificial intelligence, as well as stronger governance expectations under frameworks like the King Codes and ESG regulations. He predicts an era where organizations must balance innovation with responsibility, ensuring that technology-driven growth aligns with ethical and legal standards.
“Technology is reshaping compliance at every level – from data security to consent management. We must evolve as quickly as the risks do.”
Marco’s approach to cross-border compliance is grounded in structure and adaptability. His team at Andersen applies a principled, risk-based framework that sets global minimum standards while respecting local regulations. By maintaining a single enterprise control library and leveraging technology-enabled governance, they ensure consistent compliance across multiple jurisdictions. This approach minimizes duplication, enhances operational readiness, and promotes seamless international collaboration.
He also envisions a future where compliance leaders are recognized as strategic enablers within organizations. “The future of compliance leadership lies in its ability to drive growth,” he explains. “It’s about turning regulation into opportunity – ensuring that businesses thrive while maintaining trust and transparency.” For Marco, compliance is not just a function; it’s a mindset that fosters innovation, protects reputation, and builds resilience.
For the next generation of compliance professionals, Marco’s advice is simple yet powerful: stay adaptable and specialize in areas that spark your interest. The field is evolving quickly, shaped by data, AI, and global connectivity. He encourages young professionals to stay ahead of emerging trends and to contribute thought leadership to the growing conversation around technology and ethics.
Marco Schepers continues to redefine what it means to lead in compliance. Through his expertise, he is helping organizations navigate an increasingly complex world with confidence, clarity, and purpose. His leadership stands as proof that compliance, when approached strategically, is not a constraint but a powerful enabler of sustainable growth and trust.
“The future of compliance leadership lies in its ability to drive growth – turning regulation into opportunity.”
Contact Marco Schepers
Telephone: +27 67 409 5119
Email: marco.schepers@za.Andersen.com