Sasol, South Africa’s energy and chemicals giant, has announced the appointment of a new Chief Financial Officer (CFO) as the company continues to navigate the complexities of the global energy transition. Effective immediately, Priscillah Mabelane will take over as CFO, bringing with her a wealth of experience in the energy sector and corporate finance.
Mabelane, who previously served as the CEO of BP Southern Africa, is no stranger to leadership roles in major corporations. Her appointment comes at a critical time for Sasol, which is undergoing significant shifts as it adapts to a rapidly changing energy landscape. The company has been focusing on reducing its carbon footprint while exploring new opportunities in renewable energy and sustainable technologies.
In a statement, Sasol’s CEO, Fleetwood Grobler, expressed confidence in Mabelane’s ability to steer the company through this challenging period. He highlighted her strong track record in driving financial performance and operational efficiency, skills that will be crucial as Sasol continues to evolve its business model to align with global sustainability goals.
Mabelane’s appointment also marks a significant milestone for Sasol in terms of gender diversity at the executive level. As one of the few women to hold a top financial position in a major South African corporation, her leadership is expected to inspire further progress in diversity and inclusion within the company.
Sasol has faced several financial challenges in recent years, including the impact of fluctuating oil prices and the economic fallout from the COVID-19 pandemic. The company has embarked on a cost-cutting initiative and is restructuring its operations to improve efficiency and resilience. Mabelane will be tasked with ensuring that these measures translate into long-term financial stability while supporting Sasol’s strategic shift towards low-carbon energy solutions.
The global energy sector is in the midst of a significant transformation, driven by the need to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and transition to cleaner energy sources. For companies like Sasol, this means not only adjusting their operations but also rethinking their overall business strategies. Mabelane’s extensive experience in the energy industry, combined with her financial acumen, positions her well to guide Sasol through this period of change.
In her new role, Mabelane will oversee Sasol’s financial operations, including budgeting, forecasting, and financial reporting. She will also play a key role in shaping the company’s investment strategies as it seeks to balance profitability with sustainability.
As Sasol continues to adapt to the demands of the energy transition, the company’s leadership believes that Mabelane’s expertise will be instrumental in achieving its long-term goals. Her appointment is seen as a step towards strengthening Sasol’s position as a leader in the energy sector while advancing its commitment to environmental responsibility.
Looking ahead, Sasol’s strategic focus on sustainability, combined with Mabelane’s leadership, is expected to drive the company’s growth and innovation in the evolving energy market. The company remains committed to delivering value to its shareholders while contributing to a more sustainable future.
Source: engineeringnews.co.za
