M1 names Manjot Singh Mann to succeed Karen Kooi as its CEO

Singapore

A CHANGE of guard is afoot at M1, even as the telco goes through a general offer valuing it at S$1.9 billion.

Karen Kooi, who has been the chief executive for more than nine years, retires on Dec 6. She will hand the reins to Manjot Singh Mann, according to surprise bourse filings on Monday.

M1 said in a statement that the departure of Ms Kooi, 64, will "pave the way for leadership renewal". The 23-year company veteran will be an adviser to the board until Feb 28, 2019, "to ensure a smooth transition", and retains her director seat while an ongoing buyout offer for M1 continues.

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