Samsung Africa appoints new President, CEO
Growing the brand on the continent
In a move designed to continue to drive growth in key markets – a number of executives in Samsung’s key regional posts have been reassigned. Mr. Sung Yong Hong has been appointed as the new President and CEO of Samsung Africa effective 1 July – taking over from Mr. Kwang Kee Park who has been promoted to President and CEO of Samsung South East Asia. Prior to this appointment, Mr. Hong was the President of Samsung Electronics Turkey (SETK)
Mr. Park has served for three and half years as the company’s first-ever President of Samsung Electronics, Africa Headquarters. While in Africa, Mr. Park developed Samsung Electronics’ presence in key regions and expanded its operational infrastructure in Africa. Prior to the position, Mr. Park was President of Thailand Samsung Electronics (TSE), where he had led TSE through impressive growth through his innovative approach towards distribution. During his tenure at Samsung Africa he initiated a number of projects aligned to his commitment to reach the company’s Corporate Social Responsibility vision of impacting the lives 5 million people across Africa by 2015 including; The Samsung Electronics Engineering Academy; Africa R&D Centre and The Samsung Solar Powered Internet School – to name a few. Additionally, he oversaw the successful deployment of four Africa Forum events – a global initiative that is carried out in each continent – committing to a smarter life for Africa through technology.
“At face value, the geographies might seem quite different. Yet, both Turkey and South Africa are emerging economies that serve as a platform for greater growth on their respective continents. Mr. Hong’s vast experience and proven track record fills us with great excitement for the future to build on the existing foundation Samsung has in Africa,” says Matthew Thackrah, Deputy MD and Director of Consumer Electronics at Samsung Electronics South Africa.
Having been recognised for his capabilities as President of SETK and Samsung Gulf Electronics (SGE), Mr. Hong is now responsible for overseeing the company’s operations in Africa. He is no stranger to the region having spent 5 years as CFO at Samsung Africa, from 2000 to 2005.
“Understanding Africa and the unique requirements of the different countries will be a critical driver for future growth. In Mr. Hong, we have the experience and passion to continue to build our brand proposition as one of the best-known consumer electronics companies on the continent,” concludes Thackrah.
