Acting chairperson at Joburg Ballet speaks on CEO resignation
JOBURG - Joburg Ballet recently announced the resignation of the company's long-time CEO, Dirk Badenhorst, and City Buzz has the details.
Badenhorst recently had his name splashed in the headlines about two separate incidents, which included him being accused of using Joburg Ballet company funds in an unsuitable manner.
James Campbell, acting chairperson at Joburg Ballet, was contacted for more information regarding the sudden resignation of the troubled former CEO. He explained that there were two cases opened against Badenhorst, one of which was a civil case against him, opened last year, for the unlawful transfer of money; and the other, having begun two months ago, was an internal disciplinary hearing for poor corporate governance, financial mismanagement and poor general oversight of the company.
Campbell explained that in light of Badenhorst’s resignation, it would be futile investigating him for the disciplinary case due to the fact that he no longer formed a part of the company, but that they may amend the case to one that can be carried out in a civil court.
A statement released on behalf of the former CEO by his attorney, Mark Thompson read, “Campbell’s legal team approached us with a proposal to settle the matter.”
However, Joburg Ballet felt that statement was misleading and released a media brief to further explain the situation. “Discussion by both legal teams led to an agreement that Mr Badenhorst would resign and that the company would issue a neutral statement confirming the resignation. The result of Wednesday’s discussions, which was Mr Badenhorst’s unconditional resignation, was a victory for Joburg Ballet.”
On the future of the company, the acting chairperson noted that it was important for them to find a new CEO. “We will be appointing a new CEO, but it is a long process,” Campbell said.
“We won’t necessarily choose someone from within the company as the position of CEO is a difficult one to fill. We will be looking for someone similar to the CEO of any other company – someone who can lead the company, strategise, follow through on those strategies and raise funds for the company.”
Badenhorst could not be reached for comment.
