With the aim of driving sustainable value and supporting strategic transformation for the future, integrated energy and chemicals company Sasol appointed Walt Bruns as CFO and an executive director of Sasol, effective from September 1, 2024, following a thorough process considering both internal and external candidates.

Bruns, whose career at Sasol spans over 15 years, succeeds Hanré Rossouw, who stepped down from the role on August 31, 2024, to pursue other career opportunities.

Bruns brings extensive experience to the role, having previously served as CFO of Sasol Southern Africa, overseeing the company’s energy and chemicals divisions. His career at Sasol includes senior management roles in a range of functions and geographies, including three years as CFO of Sasol’s global chemicals business, as well as leadership positions in planning and optimisation in both Germany and South Africa.

Bruns is well-positioned for the role, owing to his in-depth knowledge of Sasol and his extensive global experience across the chemicals and energy businesses, Sasol added.

“I am proud that we were able to draw from our internal talent pool for this appointment, which will contribute towards maintaining continuity as we pursue our strategic ambitions,” Sasol president and CEO Simon Baloyi said.

Rossouw will remain with Sasol as an executive adviser until October 31, 2024, to ensure a smooth transition. Rossouw had served as CFO since 2022, providing leadership during “particularly challenging times”, according to Sasol audit committee chairperson Trix Kennealy.

“On behalf of the board, I would like to thank [Rossouw] for his significant contribution and leadership over the past two years,” Kennealy said.

She added that the Sasol board welcomes Bruns and is looking forward to working with him, explaining that his background and experience are well aligned with Sasol’s near and long-term objectives, and he will play a key role in reshaping the company’s financial success.

Bruns, a certified chartered accountant, holds a BComm degree from Stellenbosch University and postgraduate diplomas from the University of Cape Town. Prior to Sasol, he worked for advisory firm Deloitte in South Africa and the US.

Sasol had initially informed shareholders and noteholders of Rossouw’s planned departure in a Stock Exchange News Services announcement on May 2, 2024, in compliance with the JSE listings requirements.

Bruns’ appointment comes as Sasol continues to focus on driving sustainable value and supporting its strategic transformation efforts, particularly as it navigates the evolving energy landscape.