Yolisa Phahle, the CEO of Showmax, is preparing to bid farewell to MultiChoice and embark on her retirement journey. This was confirmed by Group CEO Calvo Mawela in a recent staff announcement.
“Discussions have been underway with an understanding that she will be entering the retirement phase of her career in the near future, thus the need for a seamless transition,” Mawela remarked.
Marc Jury Steps in as Acting Showmax CEO
As of 1 September 2023, Marc Jury, the current MultiChoice SA boss, has assumed the role of acting CEO for Showmax. However, Phahle’s expertise won’t be entirely absent. She’s set to offer advisory support for the next six months.
“From March 2024, Yoli will continue to consult to the group for a period of 12 months and report to Marc,” Mawela added.
During this transitional phase, Jury will oversee both Showmax and MultiChoice South Africa as the hunt for a new Showmax CEO commences.
A Look Back at Phahle’s Illustrious Career
Phahle’s journey with the company began in 2005 when she joined M-Net as the general manager for Channel O. Her leadership prowess saw her rise to the position of channel director for local channels in South Africa, where she played a pivotal role in launching the Mzansi Magic portfolio.
“Due to her distinguished work, Yoli was appointed M-Net CEO in 2015,” Mawela noted. “In 2020, Yoli took the helm as CEO for Showmax. Having collaborated closely with me and the board to chart the new direction, we wish her every success as she embarks on the next chapter of her professional journey.”
Other Key Changes at MultiChoice
The leadership reshuffle isn’t limited to Showmax. MultiChoice has also seen other significant changes:
Rendani Ramovha began his tenure as SuperSport CEO on 1 September, earlier than the initially planned date of 1 April 2024. For now, he will coordinate with Jury to ensure a smooth transition of strategic partnerships with sports entities.
Collen Dlamini, previously the head of corporate affairs and stakeholder relations, has transitioned to an advisory role focused on legislative, regulatory, and policy matters as of 1 September.
Keabetswe Modimoeng, who joined MultiChoice in January to manage stakeholder relations for its “Rest of Africa” markets, will now serve as the new Group Executive Corporate Affairs and Stakeholder Relations, answering directly to Mawela. Notably, Modimoeng has previously chaired Icasa, South Africa’s telecommunications and broadcasting industry regulator.
“He will continue to oversee the Rest of Africa Stakeholder management and Regulatory functions,” Mawela stated.
Lastly, Brad Eliot, MultiChoice’s chief information officer, has tendered his resignation. It’s confirmed that he is currently serving a three-month notice period.
These shifts in leadership signal a new era for MultiChoice and its associated brands, as they continue to adapt and evolve in the dynamic media landscape.
What is Showmax?
Showmax is a subscription-based online streaming service that offers a vast selection of TV shows, movies, kids’ shows, and documentaries. It was launched in 2015 and is owned by MultiChoice, the same company that operates DStv, a major satellite television service in Africa.
Showmax primarily serves the African market, but it has expanded its services to other countries as well. Subscribers can access Showmax content via its website or through dedicated apps for smartphones, tablets, smart TVs, media players, and game consoles.
One of the distinguishing features of Showmax, especially in its primary markets, is its inclusion of both international content and a significant amount of local African content. This local content strategy has made it a popular choice for many viewers in the region.
