The Zimbabwe Newspapers (Zimpapers) board of directors has announced significant changes to its leadership team, marking a new era for the media group.
In a statement, Zimpapers chairperson Mrs. Doreen Sibanda confirmed the departure of chief executive Mr. Pikirayi Deketeke, chief finance officer Mr. Farai Matanhire, and chief marketing officer Mr. Tapuwa Mandimutsira, who have all gone on leave while serving their notices of employment termination.
To ensure a seamless transition, the board has appointed Group Editorial Executive Mr. William Chikoto as acting chief executive, while Group Financial Controller Mrs. Annah Kufakunesu takes on the role of acting chief finance officer.
Mrs. Sibanda expressed gratitude to the departing executives for their dedication and commitment, wishing them well in their future endeavors. She also expressed confidence in the newly appointed leaders, citing their extensive experience and expertise.
“Mr. Chikoto is well-positioned to steer Zimpapers through this transition period and our digital transformation, given his deep understanding of the company’s business,” Mrs. Sibanda said. “Mrs. Kufakunesu brings a wealth of financial expertise and a proven track record of driving financial performance.”
Under Mr. Deketeke’s leadership, Zimpapers diversified its business from a purely newspaper publishing and printing company to the integrated media group it is today. Mr. Chikoto, a veteran journalist, has previously served as Editor of The Sunday Mail and The Herald, and is leading the group’s newsroom transformation project.
As Zimpapers embarks on its digital transformation strategy, Mrs. Sibanda assured stakeholders that the company is committed to leveraging cutting-edge technologies and enhancing customer experiences.
“We are excited about the future prospects and opportunities that lie ahead,” Mrs. Sibanda said. “We assure our stakeholders that the company is in capable hands and is poised for continued success.”
