Network International Holdings said that Simon Haslam, Group Chief Executive Officer has decided to retire from the Company after forty years in the financial services sector.
Nandan Mer, currently MasterCard Strategy Head - International Markets, will succeed Simon as Group CEO effective February 1, 2021. Haslam will step down as Group CEO and from the Board of Directors on January 31 and will remain with the Company throughout his six month notice period to ensure a smooth transition.
Nandan Mer has a proven track record of building and growing businesses over 30 years in a number of global markets with leading financial institutions including American Express, Citigroup, United Bank for Africa (UBA) and most recently at MasterCard.
Ron Kalifa, Chairman, said: "On behalf of the Board and all of our Network colleagues, I would like to thank Simon for his invaluable contribution as CEO and wish him well in his retirement. During his tenure, Simon has led the Company’s transformation into the largest payment solutions provider in the UAE and the leading enabler of digital commerce throughout the Middle East and Africa, and delivered significant growth across all our markets. He leaves behind a strong business and a legacy of success.
“I am also delighted to announce Nandan's appointment as Group CEO. He has a wide breadth of experience across the consumer credit and payment industries in several international markets, includingwithintheMiddleEastandAfrica.Nandan’sstrongtrackrecordofsuccesswithMastercardand strong sector expertise make him an excellent appointment to lead Network through the next stage of our ambitious strategic growth plans.”
Simon Haslam, commented: "I feel very fortunate to have led the Company at a pivotal time in its history and surrounded by a strong and committed team. I am proud of leading the change to make Network the pre-eminent provider of payment solutions in the Middle East and Africa, the world’s most underpenetrated markets with regard to digital payments. We have acted decisively to protect the business during the pandemic, and at the same time continued to prioritise strategic focus and investment into areas that will ensure Network can capitalise on future growth opportunities. It is with this in mind that I feel now is the right time to hand over the business for the next stage of its growth. I believe that Nandan is an excellent choice as my successor to drive Network’s future growth agenda.
Nandan Mer commented: “Network International is a great Company, with great people, and I’m honoured to be given the opportunity to help shape its future. I look forward to working with my new colleagues and building on the great foundation and growth potential in the business. My focus will be on delivering for all stakeholders in the business whilst continuing to deliver strong financial returns to investors.” – TradeArabia News Service
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