Safaricom will announce the way forward after undergoing a major leadership blow earlier today, which will likely include details about the replacement of CEO Bob Collymore following his death on 1st July 2019.
The Safaricom board, which hosted a media briefing a moment ago revealed that the death of Mr Collymore was a shock to the entire Safaricom community. The Chairman of the board Mr Nicholas Ng’ang’a admitted the corporation has been pursuing possible candidates for the CEO sear, bearing in mind that Collymore’s tenure was nearing its end.
“The board was aware that sooner or later, we needed to organize succession for Bob Collymore. In any case, his contract was due next month,” said Mr Ng’ang’a.
“Bob Collymore has provided this company with visionary leadership. You are all aware of his zest for life and commitment to building a purpose-led organisation for which we are truly grateful,” added the Chairman.
A few weeks ago, the carrier extended Collymore’s tenure by one year. This meant that Safaricom had to vet more candidates for his position amid pressure from the government to appoint a Kenyan CEO.
Besides the presence of some board members that graced the media briefing, the meeting was attended by former CEO Michael Joseph who lauded Collymore’s understanding of the Safaricom DNA and part of the carrier’s top management including CFO Sateesh Kamath, Chief Customer Officer Sylvia Mulinge, Chief Corporate Affairs Officer Steve Chege and Chief Special Projects Officer Joe Ogutu.
Bob, who had served Safaricom for nine years will be buried tomorrow in a private ceremony. The public will have a chance to pay its respects later on during the week.
