Alan Knott-Craig's exit from Vodacom in September could likely be a loss to the biggest cellular operator in SA. However, it could spell a whole new beginning for the local telecoms industry, as well as various other sectors.
After confirming his retirement plans, Knott-Craig, a three-time heart-attack survivor, announced he would gladly take up the chairmanship of the Independent Communications Authority of SA (ICASA). He also hinted he would avail himself to chair the Sandton Housewives' Association, the SA Gastroenterological Association and the Nude Art Appreciation Society for the Blind.
Knott-Craig initially announced his interest in the ICASA position in July last year, saying he would be willing to do his "public service" and chair the organisation, but - at the time - industry dismissed this as a joke.
It is also understood that Knott-Craig's great love of art would make him a prime candidate to lead the Nude Art Appreciation Society for the Blind.
Martin Czernowalow, news editor, ITWeb
It is understood, though, that no one is laughing now. Especially now that the well-known cellular personality is tipped to turn the aligning Sandton Housewives' Association into a formidable force. A spokeswoman for the body welcomed the move. "It would be wonderful to have Alan on board. With all the knitting, recipe-swapping and crocheting projects we embark on, it would be great to have a man of his stature and vision leading us."
It is also understood that Knott-Craig's great love of art would make him a prime candidate to lead the Nude Art Appreciation Society for the Blind. "As we understand it, Alan has a real feel for art, and would be a great asset for us," said a spokesman for the organisation.
A spokesman for Knott-Craig dismissed concerns that the 56-year-old could be taking on a bit too much, saying the retiring CEO's new motto is: Live life beyond the Zimmer Frame.
"Alan is a very energetic individual. His feisty battles at Vodacom board meetings would put any 20-year-old in the shade. Alan is known for never backing down. Often this would even happen before the meeting would start and his cup of coffee was too cold. He would relentlessly beat the tea-lady into submission."
But it is the likelihood of the ICASA chairmanship that is causing some concern among telecommunications companies.
"In this industry, speed is often more critical than the decision itself. If you are going to take forever to make a decision, then you might as well not bother," Knott-Craig told an ITWeb journalist recently.
Reacting to the statement, the CEO of a leading telco admitted he is not entirely comfortable with Knott-Craig's approach. "It's this speed thing that we are not used to. It implies that we would have to change our approach entirely. We could no longer just apply for WiMax spectrum, just for the heck of it. We would actually have to have a plan, in case we really got the spectrum."
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