Matlare takes key slot in Barclays Africa

Barclays Africa appoints Peter Matlare as deputy chief executive to be responsible for the rest of Africa banking operations.

Johannesburg - Barclays Africa has appointed Peter Matlare as deputy chief executive to be responsible for the rest of Africa banking operations with effect from August 1.

In a statement on Friday, Barclays said Matlare would be responsible for the group's banking operations in Africa excluding South Africa.

Barclays said Matlare’s roll on the board would change from non-executive to executive director.

CEO Maria Ramos said Matlare is a seasoned executive who would bring a wealth of skills and leadership experience across multiple industries.

“He knows our business intimately having served as an independent non-executive director since 2011. We look forward to his contribution as we continue to pursue our growth strategy in markets across the continent,” Ramos said.

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Matlare stepped down as chief executive of Tiger Brands in September last year. Matlare, who has been an independent non-executive director on Barclays Africa's board since 2011, said Barclays Africa is a robust business with excellent growth opportunities on the African continent.

“I am delighted to join a team that has delivered sustainable and strong returns for shareholders on the back of a sound and differentiated strategy, and I look forward to contributing to its success in a new role on the executive committee,” Matlare said.

Matlare's appointment means Ramos would have two deputies. The responsibility for rest of Africa previously fell under the portfolio of David Hodnett, the deputy chief executive and financial director.

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Barclays said Hodnett would continue in his positions, but with responsibility for the South African banking businesses, which make up a substantial part of Barclays Africa. This includes retail and business banking and the corporate and investment Bank. “David Hodnett's appointment is critical to growing our SA business, which remains our base and the biggest component of [Barclays Africa]. As an executive director on our Board he will continue to play a key role in driving our growth strategy,” Ramos said.

AFRICAN NEWS AGENCY