Rob Shuter is MTN’s new CEO. This was revealed by the South African firm in a press release published on June 20, 2016.
Still in contract with British firm, Vodafone (as CEO), Mr. Shuter will officially take office in July 2017. He will be replacing Sifiso Dabengwa who left in November 2015, after MTN Nigeria was fined $5.2 billion in Nigeria.
In its statement, MTN explained its choice by highlighting Shuter’s experience in the telecom industry. The new CEO has indeed held significant positions within Vodacom Group before joining Vodafone. “Rob will bring experience and new insights to the CEO role having had many years in the telecoms sector, both in Africa and Europe (…) His expertise will help as MTN continues to develop its new business strategy,” said MTN in its statement.
With Rob Shuter’s appointment, Phuthuma Nhleko’s mission as interim CEO comes to an end, though he will not be leaving immediately. Nhleko, prior to Dabengwa leaving, was the non-executive chief of MTN Group.
He was appointed to replace Dabengwa for six months at the head of the telecom group. Given the experience he gained as he held that position from 2002 to 2011, his task was to end the dispute with Nigeria and appoint a new CEO. That is done.
The $3.9 billion fine imposed MTN Nigeria was reduced to $1.7 billion payable over three years.
