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Resignations of Transnet GCE and CFO Announced

Published

8 months ago

October 3, 2023

The GCE and CFO of Transnet resigned, marking a significant leadership change at the state-owned freight and logistics company. According to SANews, Portia Derby, the Group Chief Executive, is set to leave at the end of this month (October), while Nonkululeko Dlamini, the Group Chief Financial Officer, concluded her tenure at the end of September.

Andile Sangqu, the Chairperson of Transnet’s board, expressed his gratitude and best wishes for Derby and Dlamini, acknowledging their dedication and hard work during a critical period in the company’s history.

Transnet announced that Michelle Phillips, the Chief Executive of Transnet Pipelines, will serve as the Acting Group Chief Executive from 1 November, while Hlengiwe Makhathini will act as the Group Chief Financial Officer.

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Reflecting on Derby’s tenure as GCE since her appointment in February 2020, Transnet noted the company’s numerous challenges. These challenges included the setting aside of the 1064 locomotive contract, the global COVID-19 pandemic, cybersecurity breaches, natural disasters such as floods in KwaZulu-Natal, and strikes towards the end of 2022, all of which had significant adverse impacts on Transnet.

Derby played a pivotal role in introducing restorative governance measures and stabilising the company after the years of State Capture. During her tenure, she worked on introducing a private partner for Transnet Port Terminals in the container terminal space, a groundbreaking initiative. She also collaborated with key stakeholders to implement reforms aligned with government policy aimed at turning the organisation around, restructuring the rail sector, and promoting the growth of the freight logistics system.

This leadership transition is critical for Transnet as it continues to navigate various challenges and strives to ensure the efficient operation of South Africa’s freight and logistics infrastructure.

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