Canal+ Launches New Leadership Era with MultiChoice Acquisition Completion
Johannesburg – In a landmark move that transforms the African media scene, French conglomerate Canal+ has officially gained control of MultiChoice Group following the unconditional approval of its mandatory takeover offer.
This pivotal event initiates a thorough executive restructuring, creating a unified leadership framework for its expansive operations across Africa.
Maxime Saada, CEO of CANAL+, remarked: “Today marks a significant step forward for CANAL+, as we begin the integration of MultiChoice to create a larger, more impactful group with enhanced scale, reach, and creativity…
“I look forward to sharing a more comprehensive strategy update regarding our merged group in the first quarter of next year.”
A key change features Calvo Mawela, the outgoing CEO of MultiChoice Group, transitioning into a strategic role as Chairman of Canal+’s African operations.
This position oversees the entire MultiChoice Group, allowing Mawela to provide high-level guidance and governance continent-wide.
David Mignot, a Canal+ executive, will take on the role of CEO for the integrated Canal+ African operations.
Nicolas Dandoy will be the Chief Financial Officer, assisting Mignot.
Mignot, CEO of CANAL+ Africa, stated: “As a unified entity, we are building on a strong foundation to create a media and entertainment powerhouse serving African audiences…
“Together, we will harness digital innovation to expand access, improve experiences, and deliver engaging content to more households while amplifying Africa’s voice globally.”
The overarching integrated company will be led by Canal+ Group CEO Maxime Saada, who will act as Executive Chairman.
“The MultiChoice board has made adjustments to its composition and leadership to ensure adequate Canal+ representation while maintaining its autonomy,” Canal+ stated.
It confirmed that the new board would direct a “refreshed commercial strategy aimed at sustainable growth.”
This leadership shift will also impact financial roles, as MultiChoice’s outgoing CFO, Timothy Jacobs, is set to take on a senior position within the finance team of the newly merged entity.
This transition in leadership follows the fulfilment of all regulatory requirements, which included a complicated corporate reorganization to comply with South Africa’s Electronic Communications Act.
This reorganization has lifted voting restrictions for foreign investors, allowing Canal+’s 46% stake (and increasing) to be fully acknowledged, thus reinforcing its effective control.
The merged organization now represents a global media giant with over 40 million subscribers across nearly 70 countries.
The integration process begins immediately, with a detailed strategic update on synergies and plans expected in early 2026.
Calvo Mawela, Chair of CANAL+ Africa, expressed: “Today signifies the dawn of an exciting new chapter, bringing new opportunities for growth and success for our company and the broader African media industry…
“The newly combined leadership team brings a strong vision and extensive expertise to the entire CANAL+ Africa business, propelling the group to new horizons.”
*This article first appeared in our sister publication techfinancials.co.za
