Brad Mears has a degree in law and history from the University of KwaZulu Natal (formerly Natal University). After completing a post-graduate diploma in industrial relations, Mears worked in the field of industrial relations, where he consulted to individuals, corporates, small businesses and unions. Three years before his appointment as SABCOHA CEO, Mears began focusing on HIV/AIDS. He headed up the Durban Chamber of Commerce and Industry’s HIV/AIDS programme and was involved in applications for funding from the Global Fund for several projects in KwaZulu Natal. Mears lives in Johannesburg and is married with twin sons.