AECI Names Rochelle Gabriels CFO

In a significant move set to bolster its leadership team, AECI Limited, a prominent player in the South African business landscape, announced the appointment of Ms Rochelle Gabriels as the Chief Financial Officer (CFO) and Executive Director, effective from September 29, 2023. The announcement, made in accordance with the JSE Limited Listings Requirements and Debt Listings Requirements, underpins AECI’s commitment to robust governance and progressive leadership.

Rochelle Gabriels, a finance stalwart with over 15 years of senior financial expertise, assumes her role after an exhaustive search and selection process. Her career, studded with executive roles and CFO positions at multinational companies, stands testament to her acumen and leadership in the finance sector. Gabriels, previously associated with Imperial as the DP World Sub-Saharan Africa Head of Finance Logistics and Shared Services, brings a wealth of experience and a proven track record in navigating complex financial terrains and driving transformative financial strategies.

The AECI Board Chairman, Dr Khotso Mokhele, expressed his enthusiasm, stating, “On behalf of the Board, I am excited to welcome Rochelle to the Group. Her strong leadership and profound financial experience will undoubtedly propel AECI to new heights. This appointment not only enhances our financial expertise but also adds to the diversity of our Board, aligning us strategically for a successful future.”

Mr Holger Riemensperger, AECI Chief Executive Officer, echoed Dr Mokhele’s sentiment, emphasizing Rochelle’s contribution to the Group and the Executive Team. “We are proud to appoint Rochelle, who brings a rich skill set and experience that will enable her to make a significant contribution to both the Group and the Executive Team,” he remarked.

During the transition period, Mr Rafael Fernandes, who has been diligently serving as the Acting Group CFO since April 2023, ensured a seamless handover. The Board expressed its gratitude for Fernandes’ commendable commitment and leadership. Following the transition, Fernandes will resume his duties as the Financial Director of AECI Mining.

Gabriels’ mandate goes beyond conventional CFO responsibilities; she will oversee critical areas such as Mergers and Acquisitions, Information Technology, Enterprise Risk Management, and Strategic Projects, aligning AECI’s financial strategies with a forward-looking, holistic approach.