I was on my way to Mombasa 9 years ago (2014). Thomas launched Ringier’s next big strategic offensive there, in Kenya: Africa. After Eastern Europe and Asia, now Africa. So he invited me to Mombasa for a first board meeting of the newly founded Africa team.
After a long journey, the receptionist politely told me: “Mister Thomas expects you in 30 Minutes, please just follow the signs Beach Club.” He welcomed me amicably and cheerfully as always. Not in the classic smart casual outfit, as managers do. But in shorts and bare feet and with a beer in his hand.
We are still invested in Africa today. And we are now leading the way, with digital marketplaces (jobs, real estate) and the digital media brand Pulse, which reaches 50 million Africans.
