CEO of Accelerate Cape Town resigns

Chris Whelan

Whelan will leave the organisation at the end of July 2015, soon after the conclusion of the 8th Annual General Meeting. A recruitment process for a successor to Whelan has commenced.

Whelan assumed the role of ACT CEO in 2012 after having concluded a long-term contract in Australia. "Because this decision involves another relocation - this time to New Zealand - it was one of the most difficult of my career. I could, however, not pass up a unique opportunity to lead the newly formed Wellington Regional Economic Development Agency as its first chief executive."

Vision in place

"I leave ACT at a time when the role of business in helping to accelerate inclusive, sustainable economic growth could not be more important to South Africa's future. It is heartening to know that the vision set in place with the board in recent years will endure."

"We respect Chris' decision to take on a challenge he is so ideally suited to," Gavin Tipper, chairman of ACT, said. "During his time at ACT he drew on his business experience and skill as a futurist to navigate its transition from think tank to business leadership organisation. In doing so, he has ensured its relevance to our expanding member base long into the future. Chris leaves us having put a firm foundation for ACT's success in place, and we wish him and his family everything of the best for the future."