Patrick Benon is a recognized leader in the telecommunications sector, having held executive roles in several subsidiaries of the Orange Group across Africa. With over 17 years of experience as a CEO, he has contributed to transforming the companies he led, significantly impacting the telecommunications market in various countries.
Benin Telecoms (2007 – 2011)
Patrick Benon was appointed CEO of Benin Telecoms in 2007, after joining the company the previous year. Under his leadership, he restructured the company following its separation from postal services, establishing a solid legal and financial framework. He also positioned Benin as a sub-regional hub for international access by developing fiber-optic interconnections with neighboring countries like Nigeria, Togo, Niger, and Burkina Faso.
Orange Centrafrique (2011 – 2014)
In 2011, Patrick Benon became CEO of Orange Central African Republic during a period of significant financial and social crisis for the company. During his tenure, he restored revenue growth with a 40% annual increase and returned the company to profitability. Under his leadership, Orange Centrafrique launched the country’s first 3G network and maintained operations despite military crises. By 2019, the company became the market leader, building on the foundations laid during Patrick Benon’s leadership.
Orange Botswana (2014 – 2021)
In 2014, Patrick Benon took the helm of Orange Botswana. He implemented an ambitious transformation plan, allowing the company to become the market leader in telecommunications. Under his management, Orange Botswana became the first operator to launch 4G, 4G+, and 4G-TDD networks. Between 2017 and 2021, the company achieved remarkable financial results, with a 33% increase in EBITDA in the first half of 2021.
Orange Cameroon (Since 2021)
In September 2021, Patrick Benon was appointed CEO of Orange Cameroon. His tenure began amid significant regulatory pressure and social unrest. He launched a transformation program to improve the work environment, promote digital inclusion, and strengthen the company’s resilience. By 2024, under his leadership, Orange Cameroon became the market leader in telecommunications for the first time in decades, with an 18% revenue growth and a 44% increase in EBITDA. He also oversaw a complete network modernization and the launch of new products like unlimited residential internet and the Maxit app.
Key Achievements
- Benin Telecoms: Positioned Benin as a sub-regional hub through fiber-optic interconnections.
- Orange Centrafrique: Financial recovery and the launch of the country’s first 3G network despite military crises.
- Orange Botswana: Launch of 4G, 4G+, and 4G-TDD networks and significant profitability increase.
- Orange Cameroon: Achieved market leadership in 2024 and modernized the network.
Social Impact
Patrick Benon has played a key role in advancing digital inclusion in Africa. As CEO of Orange Cameroon, he accelerated the deployment of Orange Digital Centers, aiming to establish a center in every region of Cameroon. These initiatives seek to equip young people with digital skills and enhance their employability.
Awards and Recognition
Patrick Benon is renowned for his transformational leadership. He was nominated for CXO of the Year 2024 in recognition of his achievements as the head of Orange Cameroon.