Leadership in Focus – What happens in the first 100 days as a CEO

Loading player...
As Kenny Fihla officially takes the reins at Absa Group, the spotlight shifts to the critical first 100 days of his leadership. But what exactly should we expect in that window and when is it fair to begin measuring performance?



Joining us is Andrew Woodburn, Managing Director of Amrop Woodburn Mann, to unpack the strategic, cultural, and operational imperatives that define a CEO’s early tenure. From setting the tone at the top to winning internal trust, clarifying strategy, and signalling intent to markets, we explore why the first 100 days are so closely watched and what it takes to convert early actions into long-term impact.



This conversation also delves into how boards, investors and teams evaluate new leaders, and whether South Africa’s corporate leadership environment gives incoming executives like Fihla the room to drive meaningful change.
2 Jul 2025 4PM English South Africa Business News · Investing

Other recent episodes

BofA Slashes SA Growth Forecast as Inflation Surges

Bank of America has cut South Africa’s 2026 GDP growth forecast to 1.3%, warning that higher oil and fertilizer prices will keep inflation above 4% for most of the year. Economist Tatonga Rusike explains
23 Apr 3PM 11 min

Understanding SA’s First Wealth Score

Franc unveils South Africa’s first-ever Wealth Score, revealing that financial habits—not income—are the strongest predictor of financial health. We unpack why SA’s national score is 45/100 and the behavior gap between knowing and doing with Dr. Thomas Brennan, founder and CEO of Franc.
23 Apr 3PM 13 min

Clicks Lifts HEPS 8% Despite Warehouse Disruptions.

Clicks delivered firm interim results with diluted HEPS up 8.1%, even as warehouse system delays cost an estimated R175 million in lost sales. CEO Bertina Engelbrecht discusses pharmacy growth, trading margins, and festive‑season competition.
23 Apr 2PM 16 min