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

EXPLAINER - Why some sports stars are worth more than companies.

An 18-year-old footballer valued at more than R6 billion has reignited a global debate: how do we really put a price on modern sports stars? Following a new long-term contract at Barcelona, teenage sensation Lamine Yamal has been named the world’s most valuable footballer — outranking established global icons and…
15 Jan 3PM 22 min

Why central bank independence matters.

GUEST – Prof Jannie Rossouw - Honorary professor at Wits Business School and economist at Altitude Wealth Central bank independence refers to a central bank’s ability to formulate and implement monetary policy - such as setting interest rates and managing liquidity - without direct control or interference from the political…
15 Jan 3PM 19 min

South Africa at Davos 2026: The Investment Message SA Is Taking to the World.

GUEST - Neville Matjie, CEO of Brand South Africa As global leaders gather in Davos under the theme “A Spirit of Dialogue”, South Africa is stepping onto one of the world’s most influential stages to make its investment case amid heightened geopolitical tension, economic uncertainty and rapid technological change. With…
15 Jan 3PM 10 min