Arrie will cease to be the Group Chief Executive Officer and an Executive Director of the Absa Group and Absa Bank with effect from 15 October 2024, followed by a 6-month contractual notice period which will be served as garden leave.

The Board, on behalf of the Group, thanks Arrie for his commitment and extensive contribution to the group over a career that spanned over 27 years with the organisation and wishes him well in his retirement.

Charles Russon will become the Interim Chief Executive Officer of Absa Group and Absa Bank effective 15 October 2024, subject to regulatory approval. He will also become an executive director on these boards. Charles’ appointment will enable a smooth transition, while the board conducts a diligent search for a new permanent Group CE.

Charles has been Chief Executive of Absa’s Corporate and Investment Bank since 2018 and a Group Executive Committee member since 2014. He joined Absa Capital in 2006 as Chief Financial Officer, and has held numerous senior roles in the group, including Regional Head of Finance for Absa Group, Chief Operating Officer for Absa Group and Chief Executive: Engineering Services for Absa Group. Charles completed his articles with KPMG and then worked for Merrill Lynch in London and Deutsche Bank in London and Frankfurt. He is a member of the South African Institute of Chartered Accountants and holds a Bachelor of Commerce degree from Rhodes University.

Yasmin Masithela will become the Interim Chief Executive Officer of Absa’s Corporate and Investment Bank effective 15 October 2024, subject to regulatory approval. A seasoned executive, Yasmin is currently Managing Executive Corporate Transactional Banking, CIB, and has been in that role since May 2019. She previously held the positions on Group Exco as Chief Executive Strategic Services and Chief Compliance Officer, respectively. Prior to that, Yasmin was General Counsel for Wealth Investment Management and Insurance. She was a founding partner of Phukubje Pierce Masithela Attorneys and headed up Project and Export Finance for Siemens Limited. Prior to that, she was an associate at Webber Wentzel & Bowens, where she completed her articles. Yasmin holds a BA and LLB (UCT), Higher Diploma in Company Law (WITS), and LLM, Tax Law (WITS)

Rev. Prof. Frimpong-Manso brings on board over 40 years of distinguished leadership and executive experience to this new role, having served on numerous boards both in the public and private sectors. 

His remarkable career spans various domains, including Christian ministry, corporate governance, and motivational speaking. As a respected global leader, he has made substantial contributions to both religious and corporate communities.

This significant appointment is expected to further bolster the company’s commitment to excellence and innovation in the fintech industry.

In his remarks on the appointment, the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of eTranzact Ghana, John Apea said: “We are thrilled to welcome Rev. Prof. Paul Frimpong-Manso as the new Chairman of eTranzact Ghana. His extensive experience, visionary leadership, and unwavering commitment to excellence align perfectly with our mission to drive innovation and provide unparalleled financial technology solutions in Ghana and beyond.”

He previously served as the President of the Ghana Pentecostal and Charismatic Council (GPCC) and was the General Superintendent of the Assemblies of God, Ghana, where he spearheaded numerous successful initiatives. 

In addition to his religious and executive roles, Prof. Frimpong-Manso has been a significant figure in the corporate sector, serving on over twenty corporate boards, including several financial institutions. 

He currently holds prominent positions such as the Board Chairman of Kwamanman Rural Bank PLC, and the Thrivus Institute. He is also a Christian Service University (CSU) Council Member. His expertise extends to national duties, where he served as the Board Chairman of the National Commission on Small Arms and Light Weapons. He is also, the Founder and President of Frimpong-Manso Institute (FMI), a Christian think-tank institute established to provide truth and apolitical versions of issues to shape mindsets amongst Christians at various levels of society and the world at large to bring about transformation.  

Rev. Prof. Frimpong-Manso’s academic accomplishments are equally impressive. He is a Professor in Ministry and Theology from the Global University Springfield-MO USA, holds a PhD in Theology from the University of Wales (UK), an Honorary Doctorate from the Pan African Theological Seminary/Clergy Council, a Master of Arts from the University of Sheffield, and a Cambridge Diploma of Religious Studies from the University of Cambridge (UK).

As eTranzact Ghana Ltd embarks on this new chapter under the guidance of Rev. Prof. Paul Frimpong-Manso, the company remains committed to delivering cutting-edge fintech solutions and fostering financial inclusion across Ghana.

Her appointment takes effect from August 1st, 2024.

Ms. Nuamah Agyemang joined SEND GHANA in August 2003 after her National Service and subsequently served as Project officer and Communications Officer. For nearly a decade she was the Senior Programme officer overseeing SEND’s Southern Ghana Program.

Ms. Nuamah Agyemang is credited for spearheading the organization’s Making Ghana’s Budget Work for Equity Initiative.

Also from 2022 onward Ms. Nuamah Agyeman has led the Epidemic Preparedness Campaign. The campaign brings together professional bodies in the health sector, academia, traditional leaders and civil society organization advocating the establish of statutory fund by the Ghana government to support health emergencies. She brings to her new position 21years of experience working in the civil society sector and leading SEND’s advocacy programs at national and sub-national levels.

As Country Director Ms. Nuamah Agyemang will provide strategic leadership for the management and operations of SEND.

Her priorities include strengthening the regional synergies between SEND GHANA , SEND Liberia and SEND Seirra Leone to leverage capacities, learning and sharing and partnerships with the government and the civil society fraternity, lead the organization to live its foundational object of being a social enterprise while contributing to economic improvement of its principals, uphold high levels of integrity through systems development and strengthening and innovatively adapt SEND programming to the changing landscape to remain relevant in the advocacy and livelihood space.

Ms. Nuamah Agyemang holds a Masters in Development Studies from the University of Ghana, Bachelor of Arts in Integrated Development Studies from University for Development Studies and a Diploma in Journalism from the Ghana Institute of Journalism.

Qazeem Bello is a seasoned banking professional with almost two decades of extensive experience in driving business growth, operational excellence, and ensuring compliance with regulatory and company policies. He has a strong background in developing and executing innovative strategies to increase market share, optimize customer engagement, and enhance customer satisfaction.

Prior to his new role, Qazeeem held various leadership positions at UBA PLC, including COO – Head Office and Corporate Branch, Customer Service Manager – Head Office and Corporate Branch, Head of Operations – Corporate and Energy Bank, Cash Officer, Head Fund Transfer Officer, and Customer Service Officer. He holds a B. Eng. in Mechanical Engineering from the University of Ilorin and has received certifications in Certified International Trade and Logistics Specialist (CITLS), Personal Effectiveness and Organization – Leadership Development, and Anti-Money Laundering Compliance Training.

In his new role as the Country Head of Internal Control, Lasisi Karimu will oversee the internal control function, ensuring compliance with policies, plans, procedures, and business objectives. Lasisi has demonstrated his ability to improve regulatory compliance, reduce fraudulent activities, and enhance internal control processes throughout his career. His expertise and leadership have been instrumental in driving success in various roles, including Area Control Manager, Cluster Control Manager, and Resident Control Officer at UBA.

Before joining UBA, Lasisi worked as an Internal Auditor with other organizations where he made significant contributions to improving regulatory compliance and capital adequacy ratios. Lasisi holds a Master of Business Administration in Finance from Central University College, a Bachelor of Science in Accounting and Information Systems from Regent University College of Science and Technology, and a Higher National Diploma in Accountancy from Ho Polytechnic.

Commenting on the appointments, Uzoechina Molokwu, MD/CEO of UBA, said, “As we continue to strengthen our leadership team to drive innovation and excellence, I am delighted to announce the appointment of our new Chief Operating Officer and Country Head of Internal Control. These strategic appointments align with our vision to enhance operational efficiency and reinforce our commitment to robust governance standards. With their wealth of experience and expertise, I am confident that they will play pivotal roles in advancing UBA Ghana’s mission to provide superior banking services and achieve sustainable growth. We are excited about the fresh perspectives and dynamic leadership they bring to our organization.”

As UBA Ghana marks its 20th anniversary, the two new appointments will enhance decision-making processes, drive operational efficiencies, and unlock new opportunities for growth and development, propelling UBA to new heights.

Mr Parent who was announced in June 2024 succeeds Mr. Hervé Barrere, who served as Interim Managing Director until a permanent appointment was made.

Lionel Parent began his career in the cosmetic industry with L’Oréal before moving into the spirits industry, where he held key positions in both family-run businesses and major corporations such as Pernod-Ricard and William Grant & Sons. 

In 2017, he joined Danone as Sales & RTM Director Africa, where he played a crucial role in the company’s commercial transformation across various markets. 

His leadership led to subsequent roles, including Customer Director of Danone France business unit and Global Sales Director – Distribution & Digitalization Transformation at Danone headquarters.

Since early 2021, Lionel has served as the Commercial Development Director of Groupe Délice in Tunisia, achieving significant successes in digital transformation and productivity. 

He is also a passionate advocate for talent development and inclusive diversity initiatives, dedicating time to mentoring emerging talents and startups.

Lionel brings extensive experience and a dynamic vision to his new role, and is poised to lead Fan Milk Plc into its next phase of growth and innovation. He will continue to strengthen the company’s leadership and commitment to delivering high-quality products to consumers across Ghana.

About Fan Milk Plc

Fan Milk Plc, a Danone company, is a renowned manufacturer and distributor of dairy products and beverages in Ghana. The company is committed to providing nutritious and delicious products to its customers while maintaining high standards of quality and sustainability.

This appointment, effective August 1, 2024, marks a significant milestone for Newmont, which operates two mines (Akyem and Ahafo South) and a project (Ahafo North) in Ghana, alongside joint venture exploration projects across the continent.

Natascha Viljoen, Chief Operating Officer of Newmont, commented, “Given Rahman’s extensive management background in finance, operations, and international trade, along with his global experience and familiarity with the African continent, he is uniquely qualified to lead our business in Africa as we build a premier mining portfolio.”

Newmont has been operating in Africa for nearly two decades, starting commercial production in 2006 with the Ahafo South mine, followed by the Akyem mine in 2013. It is currently the largest gold producer in Ghana and the biggest employer in the mining sector.

Rahman’s appointment comes as Newmont is actively advancing its Ahafo North project, which will be the company’s third mine in Ghana.

Prior to this role, Rahman was the Managing Director of Newmont’s Yanacocha mine in Peru and has previously served as the South America Regional Chief Finance Officer and Africa Regional Chief Finance Officer. Before joining Newmont, he had a successful career at Maersk, holding senior management roles across Africa and Europe.

Edward is an accomplished banker with over 20 years of diverse experience in business leadership, finance, strategy, operational efficiency, and performance management.

Edward joins Absa Bank Ghana LTD from Ecobank where he held various roles including Managing Director of Ecobank Liberia and Regional Consumer Head – Anglophone West Africa comprising Ghana, Guinea, Liberia, Sierra Leone, and Gambia.

He also previously served as the Regional Chief Finance Officer for Anglophone West Africa, and for Central, Eastern, and Southern Africa, Group Manager of Budgeting and Planning based in Ecobank Transnational Incorporated Lome -Togo.

Edward Nartey Botchway has also held executive roles in GCB Bank PLC and Citi Savings and Loans.

In addition, he brings a wealth of board experience, having served as Board Chairperson of Ecobank Investment Managers Ltd, Ecobank Venture Capital Fund and Ecobank Leasing. He was a Board member of Ecobank Sierra Leone, Ecobank Liberia, Ecobank Ghana and Exim Guaranty Company Limited.

He holds a Doctorate in Business Administration and a Master’s in Applied Business Research from the Swiss Business School – Zurich Switzerland as well as a Postgraduate degree in Contemporary Management from the Nobel International Business School (NiBS) Accra and a BA in Economics from the University of Ghana, Legon.

Edward is a Fellow of the Association of Chartered Certified Accountants (ACCA – United Kingdom), a member of the Institute of Chartered Accountants (ICA) Ghana and a member of the Ghana Association of Restructuring and Insolvency Advisors (GARIA).

Commenting on Edward’s appointment, the Board Chairperson of Absa Bank Ghana LTD, Mrs. Frances Adu-Mante stated, ‘’We are pleased to have Edward join us and also confident that he will bring his vast experience to bear and lead the bank to achieve its strategic ambitions.’’

On his part, Edward Nartey Botchway said, ‘’I am delighted to be joining the Absa family and look forward to working with the Board, colleagues, customers, and all other stakeholders to continue building on Absa’s legacy of superior customer experience and outperformance.’’

Jonah has made valuable contributions to the mining sector in Africa, including as former president of gold miner AngloGold Ashanti and has served on the boards of companies such as Moto Gold Mines, Vodafone Group, Standard Bank Group, Roscan Gold and Bank of America Corporation’s Global Advisory Council.

He is currently also chairperson of telecoms infrastructure company Helios Towers.

In particular, Jonah helped transform the Ashanti Goldfields Corporation into a mining multinational since he joined the corporation in 1979. The company managed to increase gold production from 240,000 oz/y to more than 1.6 million ounces a year in ten years, before merging with AngloGold.

Jonah contributed to the listing of Ashanti Goldfields on the NYSE, which was the first operating African company to list on the exchange.

He also helped to build Uramin from a start-up Aim-listed junior mining company to a major uranium producer that was sold for $ 2.4 billion – in less than 24 months.

Notably, Jonah was the first Ghanaian to be knighted in the twenty-first century when he was presented with an honorary knighthood in recognition of his achievements as an African businessman and international public figure.

He was elected as a foreign member of the US National Academy of Engineering in 2018, owing to his distinguished leadership and technical contributions to engineering in the African mineral industry.

Meanwhile, Avanti has entered into a share exchange agreement with a privately held company called MTM, which is based in Seychelles, through which Avanti aims to acquire all the outstanding share capital of the company.

MTM holds the rights to prospecting gold licences in the District of Molopo, in the highly prospective Kraaipan Granite-Greenstone Belt that extends from southern Botswana into South Africa’s North West province. The licence rights cover an area of about 90 ha in the overall 400-km-long belt.

Avanti will issue 29 million common shares to the shareholders of MTM, and the transaction will not constitute a fundamental change for Avanti or result in a change of control of Avanti.

Avanti is also working to develop the tier-one gold asset, Misisi, in the Democratic Republic of Congo, located in the South Kovu province. The project currently has a contained inferred mineral resource of three million ounces of gold.

–miningweekly.com 

Her appointment makes her the first female to hold a position in a mining company in Ghana.

According to the mining company, “she will be responsible for the day-to-day management and operations of all mine areas in accordance with Minerals and Mining Regulations”

Before her appointment in May, Catherine also served as the first female Metallurgical Manager for the Tarkwa and Damang mines respectively.

She’s a Metallurgist with over 20 years of experience in the gold mining industry.

She is also a PhD candidate at the University of Mines and Technology, Tarkwa.

His appointment takes effect from April 1, 2024.

Chris will spearhead the general operations of Unilever in Ghana, among other duties.

Chris is an accomplished International Business Executive with 24 years of multi-country and multi-FMCG experience.

He joins Unilever from Friesl and Campina where he was the Marketing Director for sub-Saharan Africa managing brands and marketing activities across 44 countries in a €600m business.

Before joining FrieslandCampina in 2018 as Marketing Director for Nigeria, Chris spent over 20 years working in both local and international roles for ABInBev, SABMiller and Unilever.

He was the Marketing Director of West Africa (Ghana & Nigeria) at ABInBev and a member of the Board of Directors for Accra Brewery Ltd.

During his tenure at both SABMiller and ABInBev, he led the establishment and growth of a formidable portfolio of brands, transforming their respective market share. Whilst also at SABMiller, Chris held the positions of Category Expansion/Innovation Manager for Africa based in Johannesburg (2010-2012) and Marketing Director for Ghana (2007-2010).

Chris is a fellow of the National Institute of Marketing Nigeria (NIMN) and an Associate member of the Advertising Practitioners Council of Nigeria (APCON). He holds a BA (Honors) Degree in Economics from the University of Ghana and an MBA from the Edinburgh Business School of the Heriot-Watt University in Scotland, United Kingdom.

He returned to Ghana and Unilever where he started his career as a management trainee in 1999 and took on various roles including a secondment at the Regional Innovation Center in South Africa. He is married to Anita, and they have 3 teenage children.

He loves to explore new environments, is a master BBQ griller and is a passionate Hearts of Oak and Manchester United supporter.

He is also involved with a few non-profit organizations which target the development and establishment of infrastructure for primary education for disadvantaged students.