HP appoints new MD

By Leon Engelbrecht for HP
Johannesburg, 08 Sep 2008

Oliver Fortuin will succeed Thoko Mokgosi-Mwantembe as MD of HP SA from 1 November, despite a media statement that says the change is "with immediate effect".

Mokgosi-Mwantembe, who has held the post since 2004, tells ITWeb she will continue as MD to the end of October in order to ensure a smooth handover.

The outgoing MD says she will start her own investment group in the new year.

"This is something I've always wanted to do and I think most of us would want to pursue. I'm not going into competition with HP. My expertise is obviously in ICT and this will be one of a number of legs in the business."

She would not comment further on her plans or partners, saying this would be disclosed in due course.

"For the next two months, I'll be concentrating on handing over so that there is a smooth transition and no vacuum," Mokgosi-Mwantembe adds.

Fortuin has been GM of HP SA's Technology Solutions Group since April 2007. He was previously responsible for HP's services and outsourcing business.

Fortuin, who will also continue to lead the Technology Solutions Group, will report to Ken Willett, VP and MD of HP Middle East, Mediterranean and Africa.

"I am extremely pleased that Oliver has accepted this position," says Willett in prepared comments in a media statement.

"He has demonstrated strong leadership, and sound execution. With an excellent knowledge of the South African ICT market and his exceptional passion for customers, this is a great opportunity for HP in South Africa."

Fortuin joined HP in 2006 after a 17-year career elsewhere in the IT industry.