Letshego Holdings Limited has appointed Chris Low as Group Managing Director effective 4th November 2013 subject to all relevant approvals being completed.
Low succeeds Jan Claassen, who retires in October 2013 after leading the company for the past 10 years. Claassen will remain a member of the Board of Letshego.
Low takes the reigns with 25 years of experience across the financial services industry, with more than 10 years’ experience in Africa-based or Africa-focused roles.
He has, during his career, been responsible for start-up businesses across the broader financial services space, including customer and franchise development for Consumer Banking and Wholesale Banking operations.
“With a wealth of experience in various senior leadership roles in the banking industry across Africa, Europe and Asia, Chris’ management philosophy, centred around engaging and empowering people, makes him an ideal fit within the Letshego family,” said John Burbidge, Chairman of the Letshego Board.
“His experience will complement our existing strategies and plans as we continue to grow the business and our legacy of what is now over 15 years on the continent. I would also like to take this opportunity, on behalf of the Board to thank our outgoing Group MD, Jan Claassen, for his steering Letshego to where we are today. The company has grown to become a significant Group under his leadership and guidance. We are pleased to note that Jan will remain on the Board of Letshego Holdings and will also assist the new Managing Director with hand over and other projects for the immediate future. I’d also like to congratulate Chris on his new appointment and welcome him to the Letshego team.”
Low began his career in the Audit Division at Arthur Andersen & Company (London) and went on to serve as Vice President of Finance at Goldman Sachs (London). He has held positions within Standard Chartered Plc including but not limited to Chief Executive Officer, Tanzania; Chief Executive Officer, Kenya and General Manager, East Africa; and Chief Executive Officer, South Africa and Head of New Entry Markets, Southern Africa.
Before moving into independent emerging markets consulting in 2011 based from London, Low held the role of Deputy Chief Executive Officer, International Banking Division, at the National Bank of Kuwait, Kuwait City.
Low said he looks forward to working with Letshego’s entire team across Africa and am excited by the opportunity to build on the excellent foundation created by Claassen.
“With the Board’s support, implementation of the Group’s expansion and transformation strategy will be my priority towards fulfillment of the Group’s vision. We will continue to grow the business through delivery of innovative and high quality products and services across our footprint that will make a positive impact in the lives of those around us and create added value for our shareholders.”