AXIAN Telecom's new CEO, Hassan Jaber.

AXIAN, a pan-African telecommunications firm, has appointed Hassan Jaber as CEO, effective August 19, 2024.

The telco announced today that Jaber will succeed Stéphane Oudin, who will become an advisor to the chairman and a board member of AXIAN Telecom's operating companies.

Oudin will also continue to assist AXIAN in growing and improving the governance of both the Group and its operating units, the company said.

With 29 years of experience in the telecom and digital sectors, Jaber will lead the telecom operations group of companies, driving strategic direction, developing an excellence culture, and providing value to customers and stakeholders, according to the company.

It added that he will work closely with AXIAN Telecom’s teams across different markets to ensure they continue to deliver a strong performance and achieve the group’s objectives.

Stéphane Oudin, CEO of AXIAN Telecom commented: “With a proven track record of driving innovation, fostering growth, and achieving operational excellence, I am fully confident that Hassan is exceptionally equipped to lead Axian Telecom into its next transformative phase.

“I would also like to extend my heartfelt gratitude to the AXIAN Telecom teams for an incredible 7 years and for unwaveringly supporting my vision for the business. Our successes were only possible with your dedication and support. I eagerly look forward to continuing to support the growth of AXIAN Telecom in my new role.”

Commenting on his new role as CEO of AXIAN Telecom, Jaber said: “I commend Stéphane for his exceptional work in building a successful business over the years. I look forward to furthering this trajectory and forging a strong working relationship with the entire AXIAN Telecom team.”

Before joining AXIAN Telecom, Jaber held many executive leadership positions across the MTN Group's regional footprint, with a primary focus on Africa and the Middle East. He formerly worked as CEO of Guinea, Sudan, and Afghanistan, and most recently as COO of MTN Nigeria.

Jaber has a BS in Business Computer from Saint Joseph University in Beirut and an Executive Master's Degree in Business Administration (EMBA) from HEC Business School in Paris. He is also an alumni of the international executive program at INSEAD Paris.

Hassanein Hiridjee, Chairman of the AXIAN Telecom board commented: “I am confident that under his leadership, the AXIAN Telecom Group will achieve new milestones, continue to spearhead digital and financial inclusion in Africa, and adeptly navigate evolving market demands and technological advancements.

"I would like to take this opportunity to express my profound gratitude to Stéphane Oudin, whose tenure as CEO was instrumental to the transformation, digitalization, and growth of AXIAN Telecom.”