Who is Potgieter from And They Didn't Die and what is their importance?

Mr. Potgieter is the white foreman with the road crew that eventually hires Jezile to work in his home. Mr. Potgieter fancies himself in love with Jezile. One night after a bitter fight with his wife, Mr. Potgieter goes to Jezile's room and forces himself on her. This results in a pregnancy that will eventually cause Jezile to lose her elder children.