Carlos Pone, newly appointed chief executive: Africa at AECOM, brings with him a wealth of international experience and a passion for African development. He takes IMIESA’s Hot Seat to offer his thoughts on the continent’s developmental needs and the key role AECOM has to play in addressing them.

Could you provide us with a brief outline of your professional background before your appointment at AECOM?

CP  Most recently, before coming to AECOM, I worked as chief executive in various capacities at ABB. I spent 15 years as chief executive in both South Africa and Africa and, for the last three years there, held the position of CEO of ABB UAE and the Middle East, except Saudi Arabia.

The main focus of my work, historically, has been in the power infrastructure and industrial sectors. I have been involved in almost every significant, large-scale electrical project in Southern Africa and numerous large industrial projects, so this experience falls very much in line with my new post here at AECOM.

Having most recently worked out of the Middle East, and having acquired significant international experience throughout your career, do you still see yourself as an African with a finger on the pulse of the continent’s needs?

My heart and commitment will always lie in Africa, and I have spent the majority of my professional life working on the continent and in South Africa, in particular. After three years outside Africa, I’m very excited to be back.

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