Cell C, a mobile operator, has officially assigned El Kope as its chief financial officer (CFO). Since last August, Kope has been the interim CFO after the previous CFO Lerato Pule left for a similar position at Liquid Intelligent Technologies.
In making this announcement, Cell C expressed excitement, stating the move enhances the company’s commitment to excellence and financial leadership while capitalizing on its top internal talent. This comes as part of CEO Jorge Mendes’s executive team reshuffle in response to financial problems the company has faced in recent years
Cell C has confirmed El Kope as its new chief financial officer (CFO), a promotion from Kope’s acting CFO role since August 2023. The announcement comes amidst Cell C CEO Jorge Mendes’ current restructuring of the executive team, a move ensured to bring new vigor to the company after its recent financial instability.
Kope’s appointment is part of Mendes’ pattern of drawing on top talent from his former employer, Vodacom, to strengthen the struggling Cell C. Previous such hires from Vodacom include Darius Badenhorst as chief growth officer and Melanie Forbes as chief marketing officer.
The announcement also follows Mendes’ statement that several executive roles—chief of data and analytics and chief of regions sales and distribution—are set to be filled. During Kope’s tenure, Cell C faced a dip in its revenue, which dropped 6.7% from an initial R6.3 billion to R5.9 billion. Nevertheless, Kope’s impactful leadership has led to better governance and improved relationships with key stakeholders, thus placing the company in a stronger position.
Cell C commends Kope’s impressive track record and experience garnered from multinational corporations like DHL, Coca-Cola Africa, and SA Breweries. Kope’s leadership role played a significant part in increasing Tsebo International’s turnover to $150 million.
Her successful tenure resulted in significant governance improvements and proper revenue-enhancing methodologies. “El’s exceptional leadership and strategic financial skills are truly noteworthy,” says Mendes, expressing his eagerness for her continued contribution to Cell C’s growth and long-term sustainability.
Kope has expressed gratitude for the opportunity and the trust placed in her, noting her enthusiasm for leading the company’s financial department as they embark on a journey towards growth.
