Leadership in Focus – What happens in the first 100 days as a CEO

Kaya Biz

As Kenny Fihla officially takes the reins at Absa Group, the spotlight shifts to the critical first 100 days of his leadership. But what exactly should we expect in that window and when is it fair to begin measuring performance?
Joining us is Andrew Woodburn, Managing Director of Amrop Woodburn Mann, to unpack the strategic, cultural, and operational imperatives that define a CEO’s early tenure. From setting the tone at the top to winning internal trust, clarifying strategy, and signalling intent to markets, we explore why the first 100 days are so closely watched and what it takes to convert early actions into long-term impact.
This conversation also delves into how boards, investors and teams evaluate new leaders, and whether South Africa’s corporate leadership environment gives incoming executives like Fihla the room to drive meaningful change. Kaya FM