SEIFSA Federation President, Elias Monage announced that Tafadzwa (Taffie) Chibanguza will be appointed to the role of CEO designate from the 1 July 2025 and CEO on 1 January 2026 to take over from Lucio Trentini who retires in 2027. Between now and his retirement Trentini will continue to play a role in working with the incoming CEO in providing support and guidance in contributing to the work of the organisation.
Chibanguza, at present the Chief Operations Officer at SEIFSA, brings a wealth of industry knowledge and experience to the role. The move by SEIFSA is notable for its rarity in corporate SA, where acting CEOs often fill leadership vacancies for extended periods. SEIFSA’s planned approach should ensure a seamless transition of leadership.
Chibanguza’s appointment comes at a critical juncture for the SA metals and engineering industry. The challenges facing the metals and engineering industry are unprecedented and developing a long-term, inclusive strategy for the sector is now more than ever, urgently needed.
SEIFSA, representing both the up and downstream value chain is ideally placed to play a leadership role in collaborating with all stakeholders in securing the future of South Africa’s metals and engineering industry and its crucial role in economic development.
During the transition Chibanguza will have the full support and guidance of the Board of Directors.
SEIFSA is confident that it is handing over the helm to a confident leadership team with Chibanguza well placed to take SEIFSA forward in the next phase of its growth journey.
Issued by: Elias Monage, SEIFSA Federation President and Board Chairperson.