Frederik Zietsman has been named the new group chief executive officer of online retailer Takealot. Additionally, the company announced that their former CEO, Mamongae Mahlare, who was appointed as CEO in October 2021, has now been appointed as executive chairperson of the Takealot Group.

Zietsman will assume his new role, expanding on his current position as the chief executive of Takealot.com. These leadership changes have been implemented at a time when the South African e-commerce sector prepares for an increase in competition, especially with the forthcoming entry of U.S.-based giant, Amazon.

The online shopping platform, launched in June 2011, has seen rapid growth and evolution over the years.

Amazon announced in October last year that it plans to launch in South Africa in 2022, marking the end of a long wait. This will lead to a notable competition with the Naspers-owned Takealot, which has long dominated the local e-commerce market.

The e-commerce industry in South Africa is experiencing substantial growth, with an increasing number of businesses moving onto digital platforms. According to Takealot, the recent leadership changes were implemented to consolidate the roles of the group CEO and the CEO of Takealot.com.

Takealot has pointed out that the reorganization of leadership between the group and Takealot.com will not only fortify the resources supporting its primary online retail and marketplace platform, but also foster greater alignment and focus on achieving its main growth goals.

Furthermore, Kim Reid, the existing chairperson of the group, will continue to serve on the board, assuming the role of director and strategic advisor to both the chairperson and group CEO.

I’m excited about the opportunity to continue building this great business, as well as continuing to work alongside Mamongae.

We have strong and committed teams across our group, and I believe that simplifying our structures will go a long way to building on their great work. Our future is clear. We are focused on enabling SMMEs and improving the lives of South Africans every day.

Frederik Zietsman

The online retailer stated that its group’s ecosystem, which includes Takealot.com, Superbalist, and Mr D, has generated and supports over 33,000 jobs across these three platforms.

My role as executive chair is about supporting the leadership to grow the business and on driving opportunities that move our group forward.

I will also be collaborating with our stakeholders to champion the enablement of e-commerce and how we can accelerate SMME development in the digital economy to create much-needed jobs. I am excited about the real and felt impact we will continue to make with our customers, communities and our teams.

Mamongae Mahlare

Takealot has built a strong brand in South Africa and has done so much to champion the establishment of the e-commerce category from the ground up.

I remain committed and excited to continue working with Mamongae, Fred and the team in delivering on the possibilities within the group and the opportunity to accelerate SMME development on our platforms, a cornerstone to further job creation in South Africa.

Kim Reid

The said changes will be effective starting from February 1.

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