Petroleum industry organisation the South Petroleum Industry Association (Sapia) has appointed Seelan Naidoo to succeed outgoing chairperson Hloniphizwe Mtolo as chairperson.

Naidoo, who will serve as chairperson until December 2025, is MD and CEO of fuel company Engen Petroleum, which has business operations in South Africa and six other sub-Saharan and Indian Ocean markets in Africa.

He has more than three decades of experience within the petroleum industry, spanning refining, sales and marketing and distribution.

Naidoo was previously Engen Retail GM, after having spent many years as East Africa regional manager, which encompassed seven countries operating in diverse markets with varying regulatory frameworks.

"He will lead Sapia in its drive to meet its key priorities, including the transition to cleaner fuels, facilitating fuel security of supply and championing the health, safety and the environment across the industry," the association says.

Naidoo will also provide strategic leadership on the industry’s position on energy transition, and spearhead engagement with legislators and regulators on developing policies that support environmental sustainability while the industry remains economically viable.

Further, Naidoo is passionate about people development and will champion the industry transformation efforts to ensure that the industry meets its objectives in support of the country’s drive for inclusive economic participation. Along with economic transformation, he will also promote technical skills development that will ensure a secure talent pipeline for the industry for years to come, Sapia adds.

“I look forward to working with Sapia members to champion the needs of our industry as we chart the way forward. As the industry landscape continues to change, Sapia’s role is critical in ensuring a sustainable future for all stakeholders and the future of the country,” Naidoo says.

The petroleum industry is a key player in the energy sector, which faces some challenges, and the new chairperson believes Sapia has a critical role to play in supporting the country’s efforts for energy security.

“We would also like to take a moment to thank outgoing chairperson Mtolo for his dedication and hard work,” says Sapia executive director Avhapfani Tshifularo.

“We are confident that Naidoo will continue to build on the successes and lead the organisation to even greater heights,” he adds.