The Sekunjalo Group today announces a significant leadership transition, marking the end of an era
and the beginning of a new chapter in the organisation’s continued growth and evolution.
After more than two decades at the helm, Dr Iqbal Survé will step down as Chairman of Sekunjalo
Group, effective 1 May. Dr Survé, the founder and driving force behind the Group, has led Sekunjalo
since its inception, transforming it into a diversified investment company with interests spanning
media, technology, healthcare, fisheries, and various industrial sectors. Dr Survé will make way for a
new generation of leadership to carry the baton forward.
“It has been a great privilege to lead Sekunjalo over the past two decades,” said Dr Survé.
“From humble beginnings, we have built a proudly South African business that reflects the values of
empowerment, innovation, and resilience on a global stage. The time is right to pass the baton to a
capable and visionary leadership team that will guide the Group into its next phase of growth. I have
every confidence in their ability to build on our legacy and take Sekunjalo to even greater heights.”
The Sekunjalo Group is pleased to announce the appointment of Ms Zou Kota-Mpeko as the new
Chairperson of Sekunjalo Group.
A seasoned leader, businesswoman, and former Deputy Minister of the Republic of South Africa,
Kota-Mpeko is a founding member of the Sekunjalo team and has worked alongside Dr Survé since
their days in the student movement and the United Democratic Front.
Her deep institutional knowledge, commitment to transformation, and extensive leadership
experience position her strongly to guide the Group forward.
“Sekunjalo has always been more than a business—it is a movement rooted in the ideals of
empowerment and inclusive growth,” said Kota-Mpeko.
“Having been part of this journey from the beginning, I am honoured to take on this role at such a
pivotal moment. Together with the executive team, we will continue to build a future-focused
organisation that contributes meaningfully to South Africa’s economic and social development.”
In a further strengthening of the Group’s leadership, Lucien Jacobs has been appointed as Chief
Executive Officer of Sekunjalo Group, also effective 1 May.
Jacobs brings extensive experience to the role, having served as the Group’s Chief Operating Officer
and as Chairman of Independent Media for several years.
An MBA holder and member of the World Economic Forum’s network of global strategy officers,
Jacobs has played a critical role in driving operational excellence and strategic alignment across the
Group’s diverse portfolio.
As CEO, Jacobs will lead a team of over 80 executives, including specialists in corporate finance,
investments, and operations, ensuring continued growth, innovation, and value creation.
“I am deeply honoured to be entrusted with this responsibility,” said Jacobs.
“Dr Survé has built an extraordinary organisation, and I am acutely aware that I have very big shoes
to fill. However, with the strength of our leadership team and the depth of talent across the Group, I
am confident that we will continue to grow, innovate, and deliver on our mission. Our focus will be
on strengthening our core businesses while unlocking new opportunities for expansion.”
This leadership transition reflects Sekunjalo Group’s commitment to sustainability, succession
planning, and the advancement of a new generation of leadership equipped to navigate an
increasingly complex and dynamic global environment.
The Group extends its profound gratitude to Dr Survé for his visionary leadership and enduring
contribution, and looks forward to continued success under its new leadership team.
//ends//
Issued by Sekunjalo Group
For media enquiries:
Tina Van Der Merwe | Director of Communications
[email protected]
About Sekunjalo
Sekunjalo is a SA investment holding company founded on the principles of ethical leadership, broad-based
empowerment, and long-term value creation. With a diversified portfolio spanning media, technology,
healthcare, and aquaculture, Sekunjalo is committed to driving inclusive economic growth in South Africa and
beyond.
