SOUTH AFRICA – South Africa’s Minister of Public Enterprises, Pravin Gordhan, has revealed the latest executive appointments within Transnet, marking a significant move towards enhancing the performance and strategic vision of the state-owned entity.
Michelle Phillips, who has been serving as the acting Group Chief Executive of Transnet, has now been officially appointed as the Group CEO, while Nosipho Maphumulo takes on the role of Group Chief Financial Officer (CFO).
Minister Gordhan expressed his confidence in these appointments, emphasizing their importance in aligning Transnet with competent and experienced leadership to execute strategic interventions crucial for the Transnet recovery plan.
He commended Phillips, stating, “These are critical appointments which represent our steadfast commitment as a government.”
Phillips, with over two decades of experience within Transnet in various capacities, has a proven track record of being a collaborative problem solver.
Minister Gordhan lauded her achievements during her tenure as the CEO of Transnet Pipelines, where she faced significant challenges, including governance issues, theft, spillage, and poor performance.
“When she joined Transnet Pipelines as CEO, she found an operating division with poor governance, theft, spillage, and poor performance,” said Gordhan.
However, under Phillips’ leadership, the division achieved its first green audit report status on the supply chain, signaling adherence to good governance practices. Notably, she saved the business ZAR 1.5 billion (USD 78.44 million) over an 18-month period.
Apart from the successful turnaround of Transnet Pipelines, Phillips demonstrated her leadership skills by completing the development of liquid natural gas terminals and Sapref tanks in a remarkably short timeframe.
These accomplishments underscore her ability to drive positive change and operational efficiency within Transnet.
Gordhan also praised Maphumulo, the newly appointed Group CFO, as a highly accomplished business leader with extensive experience in financial management within complex commercial organizations.
He emphasized the importance of these appointments in supporting Transnet’s catalytic role in the South African economy.
Acknowledging the role of the Transnet board Chairperson, Andile Sangqu, Gordhan thanked him for steering the recruitment process efficiently.
The minister is optimistic that the new leadership team will provide Transnet with the strategic direction needed to execute ongoing reforms, including provisions outlined in the Freight Logistics Roadmap, which anticipates granting access for private rail operators soon.
The appointments of Michelle Phillips and Nosipho Maphumulo represent a pivotal moment for Transnet as it seeks to navigate challenges, implement reforms, and contribute significantly to the South African economy.
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