Outgoing chairman of Sekunjalo Dr Iqbal Survé with Zou Kota-Mpeko, who takes over as chairperson on May 1.
Image: Henk Kruger / Independent Newspapers
In a major change announced by the Sekunjalo Group, founder and chairman Dr Iqbal Survé will be stepping down as chairman after more than two decades at the helm.
The group confirmed on Thursday that Survé will relinquish his role effective May 1, marking what the group described as “the end of an era and the beginning of a new chapter” for the diversified investment company.
Survé, who founded Sekunjalo and led its expansion into sectors including media, healthcare, technology and fisheries, said the decision was driven by the need to usher in a new generation of leadership.
“It has been a great privilege to lead Sekunjalo over the past two decades,” said Survé. “From humble beginnings, we have built a proudly South African business.The time is right to pass the baton to a capable and visionary leadership team.”
Incoming Sekunjalo chairperson Zou Kota-Mpeko with incoming CEO Lucien Jacobs.
Image: Henk Kruger / Independent Newspapers
Taking over as chairperson is Zou Kota-Mpeko, a founding member of the group and former deputy minister. Her longstanding association with Survé dates back to their involvement in the students' movement of the 80’s and the United Democratic Front.
Kota-Mpeko said the organisation would continue to prioritise transformation and inclusive growth. “Sekunjalo has always been more than a business—it is a movement rooted in the ideals of empowerment and inclusive growth,” she said.
In a parallel move, Lucien Jacobs has been appointed chief executive officer, also effective May 1. Jacobs previously served as chief operating officer of the group and chaired Independent Media.
Holding an MBA and member of the World Economic Forum’s network of global strategy officers, Jacobs will now oversee a leadership team of more than 80 executives across the group’s portfolio.
“I am deeply honoured to be entrusted with this responsibility,” said Jacobs.
“Dr Survé has built an extraordinary organisation, and I am acutely aware that I have very big shoes to fill. However, with the strength of our leadership team and the depth of talent across the Group, I am confident that we will continue to grow, innovate, and deliver on our mission. Our focus will be on strengthening our core businesses while unlocking new opportunities for expansion,” he added.
The group said the leadership transition displayed its commitment to succession planning and long-term sustainability.
It also paid tribute to Dr Survé’s tenure, crediting him with building a globally active South African enterprise and laying the foundation for its next phase of growth.
IOL