Gijima has announced the appointment of Bill Hoggarth to the company’s board with effect from 20 November 2014.
“Hoggarth brings a wealth of expertise in the ICT industry, and we are pleased to welcome him to the Board of Directors,” says Robert Gumede, Gijima Executive Chairman. “His insight and counsel will undoubtedly be a strong asset to Gijima as we pursue our turnaround strategy for profitable, sustainable growth.”
Hoggarth has extensive experience in the ICT industry and with corporate turnarounds, and considerable international experience. He joined Gijima on 1 May 2014 as a new Chief Sales Officer from Dataways, a Business Intelligence product and services company he co-founded in 2012.
He has lived and worked in several countries across Europe and the Middle East. He was also instrumental in lifting companies such as Business Objects, Siebel and SAS to positions of market leadership.
“There is a lot of work to be achieved to turn around the business and Bill, who joined Gijima on 1 May 2014, has already proven he has added immense value,” says CEO of Gijima, Eileen Wilton.
Gijima is in the process of raising R100-million to recapitalise the business through a rights offer. The technical aspects of the issue were recently approved by shareholders. The second vote by shareholders will be held in December.
The issue has been approved by the Competition Commission.
Last week, the leading ratings agency in Africa, Global Credit Ratings, said Gijima had strengths that supported its recovery. The agency added that the company has proprietary technology, highly skilled staff and decent contracts, and has strong shareholders who have shown support.
In the last 12 months Gijima has concluded contract renewals to the value of R1,6-billion, thereby demonstrating the company’s capability and “is testament to our ability to provide service delivery excellence,” says Wilton.
Commenting on his appointment, Hoggarth says: “Gijima has embarked on a robust plan to return the business into profitability, and has shown very promising recovery. The Board members and management have an outstanding reputation and I am very pleased to join this excellent team.”
