Safaricom’s Chief Technology Officer (CTO), George Njuguna, is set to exit the telco. He will be replaced by James Maitai from 1st November 2024.
George Njuguna joined Safaricom back in 2019 and the Director IT and has been key in digitizing the telcos operations. He has also been influential in the roll out of Safaricom’s telco to Techco strategy growing talent in the technology team fourfold to over 800.
A statement by Safaricom’s CEO, Peter Ndegwa, that we have seen says George has taken the decision to pursue other interests outside Safaricom. “I wish to thank him for his contribution to our transformation journey and we wish him all the best in his future endeavors,” read the statement.
Anthony Gacanja, the Director of Network, will be stepping in and taking the additional responsibility as the Acting Group Chief Technology Information Officer until 30th October 2024 when James reports to his new role.
Who is James Maitai?
As mentioned, James Maitai will be the Chief Technology and Information Officer (CTIO) effective 1st November 2024.
At this role, he will be responsible for the end-to-end performance of Safaricom’s network and all IT systems. He will also lead the technology function in line with best practice, and will play a key leadership role in ExCo, contributing to the overall business strategy.
He has over 23 years’ experience in the technology spcace and has been the CTIO of Safaricom Ethiopia since January 2023. At this role, he led the rapid deployment of a comprehensive technology stack and acceleration of the network to 3,000 sites. He was also instrumental in operationalizing the M-PESA ecosystem, implementing a next-generation digital infrastructure and core network, and driving strategic cost leadership by realizing over 30% savings in technology OPEX.
Before joining Safaricom Ethiopia, he was at Safaricom PLC where he held different roles including Director – Network. At this role he provided overall leadership and accountability for Safaricom’s technology network and systems across the strategic, planning, building and operating phases. james was also a part of ExCo for 2 years between 2019 and 2021.
He holds a a B.Sc. in Electrical & Electronics Engineering from the University of Nairobi, an MBA from JKUAT, as well as several industry certifications. He is also a certified coach and has undergone advanced management programs at Strathmore Business School, Lagos Business School and IESE in Spain.
