Wim Vanhelleputte is the CEO of Safaricom Telecommunications Ethiopia PLC, a purpose-led technology and communication company committed to contributing to Ethiopia’s digital transformation and inclusion objectives.

Since taking the helm on 01 September 2023, Wim is responsible for steering the Safaricom Ethiopia team towards a profound mission – the transformation of lives through a digital future for all Ethiopians.

Wim has gained deep industry knowledge through his extensive leadership experience over the past 25 years in the telecommunications industry, serving in multiple markets across Sub-Saharan Africa.

In his most recent role, Wim served as the Operations Executive Markets at MTN Group where he orchestrated the performance and governance of four MTN operating companies across West and Central Africa. Prior to this role, he held the position of Chief Executive Officer at MTN Uganda, where he spearheaded the strong recovery of the company, through double digit year on year revenue growth, increasing margins, and transforming the brand’s perception from old and tired to young and dynamic.

Wim's dynamic journey through the telecommunications landscape also saw him assume the mantle of CEO at MTN Côte d'Ivoire for more than six years. He transformed the company from a GSM only operator into the number one fully integrated telecom player in Côte d'Ivoire following the successful launch of mobile money, mobile data and FTTx. Throughout his career, he has held executive positions, including Chief Executive Officer at Sentel GSM in Senegal, Managing Director of TchadMobile in Chad, and General Manager at Telcel Gabon.

He began his career as an Associate Engineer at Westinghouse Energy Systems Europe in the Czech Republic, before venturing into diverse global roles at Siemens Atea, including Project Engineer in Zimbabwe and Residential Project Manager in Gabon.

His academic prowess matches Wim’s professional achievements, with a Bachelor’s Degree in General Engineering and a Master’s Degree in Nuclear and Solid-State Physics, both conferred by the State University of Ghent, Belgium. He also holds a Special Degree in Power Plant Management from the Free University of Brussels.

Wim’s leadership journey is a testament to his unwavering dedication to advancing the telecommunications industry and fostering digital transformation for communities across Africa.

Wim is happily married with two children.