Saxen van Coller, the chief executive officer of Dube TradePort, has been sacked from her R2.5-million-a-year job for failing to disclose previous criminal offences.

She was suspended earlier this year after allegations surfaced she had exaggerated her academic qualifications.

In a statement yesterday, Dube TradePort said in a statement her dismissal was the outcome of a disciplinary process that began in March and was chaired by an independent presiding officer.

"The disciplinary process found that Ms Van Coller failed to disclose previous criminal offences and a previous criminal conviction prior to being appointed for the position of CEO," it said.

"The board agreed that this was sufficient grounds for dismissal and has informed Ms Van Coller of its decision.

"The board views this non-disclosure in a very serious light."

The board said it will pursue charges against Van Coller "and is exploring the possibility of recourse that can best be determined legally".

Hamish Erskine is serving as acting chief executive.

The company did not provide details of the criminal record nor elaborate on the allegation that she falsified a BA, a MBA and a doctorate to make herself eligible for the job.

According to Corruption Watch, there are an estimated 640 public servants who have duped the state over the years to obtain senior, often influential posts.