By Lehlohonolo Lehana.
The South African Broadcasting Corporation (SABC) has appointed Nomsa Chabeli as its new group chief executive officer (GCEO).
Chabeli was formerly general manager of brand and marketing at telecoms giant MTN for four years and marketing director of Massmart-controlled Masscash for a year.
She also led the marketing and communications for South Africa’s 2010 World Cup Bid, served as the Marketing Director for ICC Cricket World Cup 2003 and worked on the development and execution of South Africa’s communications and marketing strategy for various Davos World Economic Forums.
Chabeli has an MBA from Henley Business School and is currently studying for a Master’s in Digital Business at Wits Business School.
The SABC Board of Directors has confidence in Chabeli’s ability to drive revenue generation, strategic growth, and innovation and uphold the values that have defined SABC’s legacy.
“I am truly honoured and excited to join the SABC as its new GCEO. This organisation holds a rich legacy of public service through broadcasting, and I am committed to advancing its mission and intensifying efforts to significantly improve revenue generation and lay the foundation for enduring success,” Chabeli said.
“Faced with the challenges of a rapidly evolving digital landscape, together we will embrace innovation, foster meaningful connections and ensure that our content continues to inspire, inform and resonate with diverse audiences in this dynamic media landscape.”
Chabeli takes over an organisation facing severe financial challenges, with the group losing R1.1 billion during the 2022/23 financial year.
This year, its head of legal, Advocate Ntuthuzelo Vanara resigned, while Reggie Nxumalo resigned as the SABC’s head of sales.
Former CEO Madoda Mxakwe, who was the first to complete the full five-year contract at the helm of the SABC in 15 years, exited his position in June. Group executive for radio Nada Wotshela stepped in as acting CEO.