Ex-GlaxosmithKline Executive Appointed To Head Safaricom’s Business And Innovation Division

Safaricom Chief Executive Officer Bob Collymore has announced the appointment of Debra Mallowah to the new position of Chief Business Development Officer.

She is expected to join Safaricom from January 2019. The current Chief special projects Officer will hold the role in an interim capacity.

“As a member of the Executive Committee and reporting directly to me, Debra will be responsible for preparing Safaricom for the future, harnessing new business opportunities and leading innovation,” said Collymore.

Collymore said Mallowah will take over responsibility for Alpha, Safaricom’s innovation unit and will lead geographical expansion opportunities including Mergers and Acquisitions activities.

“As the Executive responsible for developing the company’s strategic direction she will also lead the new Knowledge Management team including Research as well as Insights & Big Data.”

Mallowah was formerly Vice President for Unilever for the Personal Care Division, Africa and Group Marketing & Innovations Director in Diageo East Africa.

Her appointment is part of management changes announced by the company that also saw the creation of the position of Chief Customer Officer. The former head of Consumer business Sylvia Mulinge will oversee all activities relating to customer engagement, including Consumer Business, Sales Operations, Customer Service, Brand Marketing & Experience, Digital and Market Development.