Airtel Africa plc has announced the appointment of Sunil Taldar as its new Chief Executive Officer (CEO), set to take over from the retiring CEO, Olusegun Ogunsanya. The change in leadership was disclosed in a statement to the Nigerian Exchange Group (NGX) by the Group Company Secretary, Airtel Africa, Simon O’Hara.
Effective July 1, 2024, Taldar will not only assume the role of CEO but also join the Board as an Executive Director. This transition will coincide with Ogunsanya’s retirement, who will step down from the Board and the company.
With over three decades of experience in business management across the Fast-Moving Consumer Goods (FMCG) and Telecommunications sectors, Taldar is well-prepared for his new role at Airtel Africa. His expertise includes a noteworthy tenure as Director of Market Operations at Bharti Airtel, where he demonstrated a strong track record of success.
Sunil Bharti Mittal, the Chairman of Airtel Africa plc, expressed his confidence in Taldar’s capabilities: “The Board is delighted to appoint Sunil Taldar as the Group’s next Chief Executive Officer. His industry experience, strategic vision, constant customer focus and proven record of delivery will enable him to deliver our strategic objectives and to lead the Group in the next stages of its development.”
Mittal also took the opportunity to acknowledge the significant contributions of the outgoing CEO, Ogunsanya. “On behalf of the Board, I would like to thank Segun Ogunsanya for his commitment and significant contribution to Airtel Africa plc as Chief Executive and before that as Managing Director and CEO of Nigeria, our largest market in Africa. Under Segun’s leadership, Airtel Africa has maintained double-digit revenue growth and continued to deliver new, industry-leading products to our customers across Africa.”
Ogunsanya, following his tenure as CEO, will embark on a new journey as the inaugural Chair of the Airtel Africa Charitable Foundation. This new role will see him leading efforts in digital and financial inclusion, access to education, and environmental protection across Africa. Additionally, he will serve as an advisor to the Chairman, the Airtel Africa Board, and the Chief Executive for a 12-month period, ensuring a smooth transition and continuity of the company’s strategic vision.
This leadership transition at Airtel Africa marks a significant moment in the company’s journey. With Taldar at the helm, the company is poised to continue its trajectory of growth and innovation, building on the strong foundation laid by Ogunsanya. Taldar’s appointment signals a new chapter for Airtel Africa, as it navigates the dynamic and rapidly evolving telecommunications landscape.
