Safaricom CEO Bob Collymore has taken a medical leave that will see him absent from the helm of the largest telecommunication company in the region for months.
In a statement released to newsrooms, Safaricom said that Bob Collymore has taken a leave “to receive specialized treatment for a number of months” with the current Chief Financial Officer, Sateesh Kamath, who is also Mr. Collymore’s alternate on the Board, will take a primary role as the CEO in absence of Bob.
“He will be supported by Joseph Ogutu who is the current Director – Strategy and Innovation, Safaricom. Mr. Ogutu will be responsible for Safaricom’s day-to-day operations until Mr. Collymore’s return from medical leave,” read the statement.
With over 20 years’ experience in both mature and emerging markets, Mr. Kamath has a strong background in strategic performance management and building robust operations across the telecoms, FMCG and manufacturing sectors.
On his part, Mr. Ogutu is the longest serving Executive Committee member in Safaricom. He has a long and distinguished career in the telecommunications industry spanning over 30 years, with rich experience across several parts of the company including the Corporate Affairs and Human Resource functions. He currently also serves as the Chairman of the Safaricom Foundation.
“On behalf of the board, management, and the entire Safaricom community, I wish Bob quick recovery and look forward to him resuming his duties as soon as doctors allow him to do so,” said Nicholas Ng’ang’a Chairman, Safaricom.