MTN Zambia have announced the appointment of its new chief executive officer Bart Hofker effective October 1, 2019, following former CEO Philip van Dalsen’s resignation in July, citing “personal reasons”.

In a statement issued via by MTN Zambia communications & CSI manager Lisa Mulozi, Hofker, a Dutch national, officially took over as the new MTN Zambia CEO from last Tuesday, replacing van Dalsen, who previously held the role at the helm of the telecommunications giant for only five months since February, this year.

“MTN Group is pleased to announce the appointment of Lambertus (Bart) Hofker as MTN Zambia Chief Executive Officer effective 1st October, 2019, taking over from Philip van Dalsen who resigned in July, 2019. Bart Hofker brings over two decades of experience to the new role, having previously worked in senior leadership roles transforming telecom and energy businesses in emerging and advanced markets. Prior to this appointment, Hofker was the CEO of MTN Rwanda for three years, where he successfully accelerated fintech adoption, data monetization and completed network transformation. He has a track record of success in various telecom and energy companies, such as Vodacom, Vodafone, KPN and Nuon Vattenfall,” read the press release issued, Monday.

“Philip cited personal reasons as being behind his decision to step down from his position. He has since left the company and Bart has been appointed to take over as CEO of MTN Zambia effective 1st October.”

And commenting on his appointment, Hofker expressed delight at being given the opportunity to lead MTN Zambia into its next chapter.

“I am delighted and honoured to be given the opportunity to lead MTN Zambia into its next era. The company already has an excellent leadership team and I look forward to working with them to position MTN Zambia as the partner-of-choice for our customers, our employees and our stakeholders,” stated Hofker in the press release.