Richard was born and raised in South Africa. He graduated with honors from the University of Cape Town and went on to complete his medical degree at Stellenbosch University. He furthered his studies abroad at the University of Barcelona in Spain, where he specialized in advanced surgical techniques, particularly bariatric surgery. He then pursued his surgical residency at the University of the Witwatersrand in Johannesburg, where he was honored with the role of Chief Administrative Resident.

After completing his training, Richard became the medical director for bariatric surgery at Groote Schuur Hospital in Cape Town, one of South Africa’s leading academic hospitals. He later expanded his work in the field as the head of the weight management program at the Red Cross War Memorial Children’s Hospital in Cape Town, focusing on both adult and pediatric obesity treatments.

Richard is a board-certified surgeon specializing in bariatric surgery and Medical Weight Loss. He currently practices at Tygerberg Hospital’s Weight Management Centre in Cape Town, where he leads innovative treatments for obesity and metabolic health issues. He also serves as the medical director for the Comprehensive Metabolic Disease Management Centre at the Netcare Christiaan Barnard Memorial Hospital in Cape Town.

In addition to his specialization in bariatric surgery, Richard accepts orthopedic surgery contracts and hires, having extensive experience in joint replacements, trauma care, and musculoskeletal surgeries. His diverse skills have allowed him to work in a variety of settings, including international collaborations.

Over the years, Richard has had the privilege of working with the United Nations on multiple health and surgical initiatives, offering his expertise in regions with limited access to medical care. His contributions have focused on improving surgical practices and providing medical support in humanitarian crises.

Richard is certified by the South African Society of Surgeons and is a fellow of the South African College of Surgeons, the South African Society for Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery, and the South African Board of Obesity Medicine.