US-based engineering design firm Aecom has appointed a new chief executive for the whole of Africa.
Formerly of ABB, Carlos Pone will be responsible for leading Aecom’s growth strategy for the continent.
Aecom boosted its presence in Africa in 2012 with the acquisition of 900-strong South Africa-based consultant, BKS.
For ABB, Pone held a number of key positions, including CEO for Southern Africa and regional manager for Sub-Sahara Africa. Originally from Mozambique, he is currently ABB’s country managing director in the United Arab Emirates.
"The Africa region plays an increasingly important part of our business in Aecom," said Steve Morriss, Aecom’s chief executive for Europe, Middle East, Africa and India.
"More and more global clients are exploring opportunities in the region, and the emerging and developed economies across Africa provide great opportunities for Aecom to positively impact lives and transform communities."
He praised Pone’s track record of "creating strong, sustainable and diverse teams across the continent".
Pone takes up his new role in August and will be based in Johannesburg.
"I share the same values and passion for Africa as Aecom and look forward to implementing the company’s strategy and vision for the region, helping to take the business to a leading position in the continent," he said.
Photograph: At ABB Carlos Pone was CEO for Southern Africa and regional manager for Sub-Sahara Africa (ABB)
