Phakamani Hadebe

January 29, 2024 Nigerian CEO Leading Ceos, Top 100 CEOs Comments Off on Phakamani Hadebe

Nationality: South African Profession: Business Executive Notable Roles: Former Group Chief Executive of Eskom; Former CEO of the Land and Agricultural Development Bank of South Africa (Land Bank)

Education

  • Master’s in Economics – University of Durban-Westville

  • MA in Rural Development – University of Sussex, UK

  • Alumnus – Wharton Business School (USA)

  • Alumnus – IMF Institute

His academic background combines economics, rural development, and international finance, equipping him for leadership in both public and private sectors.

Career Timeline

  • National Treasury (2003–2008):

    • Served as Head of Assets and Liabilities, managing South Africa’s sovereign debt and financial risk.

  • Land and Agricultural Development Bank of South Africa (2008–2013):

    • Appointed CEO and Director.

    • Took decisive action against corruption, laying charges against former CEO Philemon Mohlahlane, who was later convicted in 2018.

  • Working Limited (2013–2018):

    • Headed the Corporate and Investment Banking Division.

  • Eskom (2018–2019):

    • Initially appointed Acting CEO and Director.

    • Became Group Chief Executive in May 2018.

    • Resigned on 26 May 2019, citing poor health and the extreme pressures of leading Eskom during its financial crisis.

    • His resignation highlighted the immense challenges of managing South Africa’s state-owned power utility, sparking national debate about Eskom’s governance and sustainability.

    • Successor Andre de Ruyter later confirmed that Hadebe’s health deteriorated significantly during his tenure, even leading to an on-job collapse.

Leadership & Legacy

  • Integrity: Known for tackling corruption at the Land Bank.

  • Financial Expertise: Deep experience in treasury management, corporate banking, and investment strategy.

  • Resilience: Took on leadership of Eskom during one of its most turbulent periods, despite personal health risks.

  • Public Service: His career reflects a commitment to strengthening South Africa’s financial institutions and governance.

Quick Facts

Attribute Details
Name Phakamani Hadebe
Education MA Economics (Durban-Westville), MA Rural Development (Sussex), Wharton, IMF Institute
Key Roles CEO Eskom (2018–2019), CEO Land Bank (2008–2013), Head of Assets & Liabilities – Treasury
Known For Tackling corruption, leading Eskom during crisis, financial expertise
Resignation Reason Poor health and extreme pressures at Eskom

 

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