Anton Heunis leaves the SABC

SABC COO Hlaudi Motsoeneng announced the departure of former Enterprise Executive, Anton Heunis at a media briefing in Auckland Park today.

Motsoeneng said Heunis’ departure would be a loss for the broadcaster.

“Even as we are losing a good individual, we will produce a better individual in the new appointment,” said Motsoeneng.

“We don’t want to see an all black management. When I see an all white management, it does not reflect the rainbow nation… We need people of all colours in top positions.”

Heunis, who was with the SABC for 35 years, confirmed he decided to retire early for health reasons and “because it was time”.

Heunis said he can only thank the SABC for the opportunity, saying it was his privilege to announce Philiso as his successor.

Philiso, who was previously appointed as general manager of sales operations, said the sustainability of the SABC was dependent on the Commercial Enterprise Unit.

“I can only undertake to deliver to the best of my ability,” she said.

Motsoeneng maintained the SABC recognised principles of gender equity, not because of gender alone, but that the candidate must be the best for the job.