Telecom Namibia appoints Armando Perny acting CEO after executives exit 

Telecom Namibia has appointed Armando Perny as acting chief executive officer following the resignation of former CEO Stanley Shanapinda earlier this month, marking a short-term leadership change at the state-owned operator. 

Perny will assume the role on July 1 for one month while the board completes the process of selecting a permanent chief executive. The company said the appointment is intended to ensure continuity in day-to-day operations during the transition period. 

Board chairperson Fimanekeni Petrus said Perny’s long-standing experience within the organisation makes him well placed to oversee the interim phase. 

“Perny brings extensive experience and a deep understanding of Telecom Namibia’s operations and strategic priorities,” Petrus said. “His leadership will ensure continuity and stability as the board undertakes the process of appointing a substantive CEO.” 

Petrus added that the board remains confident in Perny’s ability to maintain operational focus and keep services steady for customers and stakeholders.

Executive departures at senior level 

The leadership transition comes alongside the departure of two other senior executives. Petrus confirmed the resignation of the chief commercial officer, effective June 30, and the chief financial officer, who is expected to leave the company on Sept. 30. 

“The board of directors and executive management acknowledge these resignations and extend their sincere appreciation to the executives for their leadership, dedication and contribution to the company,” Petrus said. 

He added that interim arrangements for the vacant roles will be communicated in due course.

Background on incoming acting CEO 

Perny has served as Telecom Namibia’s chief marketing officer since April 2019. He previously led TN Mobile as chief mobile officer from 2014 to 2022 and has spent years overseeing the company’s marketing, retail and mobile operations. 

His experience also includes serving on the board of PowerCom, a Telecom Namibia subsidiary, where he chairs the commercial and technical committees. Within Telecom Namibia, he has led several strategic projects and transport committee initiatives, building a career focused on telecommunications, customer services and retail operations.

Telecom Namibia’s market position

Telecom Namibia is Namibia’s national telecommunications operator, established in 1992 and wholly owned by the government. The company operates a commercial business model and provides voice, data, broadband, and fixed and mobile services. 

It serves more than 480,000 customers, and employs over 1,100 staff and generates annual revenue exceeding NAD1.4 billion ($85.4 million).  The operator has invested heavily in network infrastructure over the years, expanding fiber, wireless, and data services across the country and supporting connectivity in neighboring landlocked markets. 

The company continues to position itself as a provider of digital communication services in a market where demand for reliable connectivity and data-driven solutions remains steady.