Jasper Westerink takes over as Chief Executive Officer (Market Leader) for Philips Africa

"Society's key health challenges (ageing population, increase in chronic illnesses, endlessly rising health expenses) lead us to imagine new solutions. The challenge is not simply to develop new products. We also need new services and new business models. Philips is a world leader in health solutions, as much for consumers as for professionals and medical establishments. In Africa, Philips innovations have been part of everyday life for many generations.  Our well-trusted name combined with the strength of the group's local research and development capabilities are key resources to help transform our healthcare system, moving towards greater quality and efficiency with predictive, preventive and personalized medicine for tomorrow," Jasper Westerink declared.

"I'm very proud to be appointed as CEO Philips Africa. My priorities, in a region facing ongoing challenges, are to continue to identify growth opportunities and boost Philips’ commitment to develop sustainable solutions for our African customers and consumers. Building-up and maintaining strong relations with government and business groups is essential. Philips’ has a long history and presence in Africa over a hundred years; through our emphasis on improving people’s lives and our strong focus on providing relevant and sustainable solutions, we are convinced that we are well-positioned to further grow our presence across the African continent,” he adds.

Jasper Westerink has been with Philips since 2001 and brings with him a wealth of experience and international business expertise having worked in key leadership positions across Europe, Africa and Asia Pacific. He previously spent a couple of years as the head of the Consumer Lifestyle portfolio for Philips in South Africa before relocating to Indonesia where he was the Managing Director of Personal Health, Indonesia. Under his leadership Indonesia has become one of the fastest growing countries for Philips in the APAC market.

Jasper Westerink holds a Master Degree in Social Sciences with a specialization in Management and Marketing from the University of Tilburg. And has additional qualifications from Harvard Business School (Digital & Social Strategy), the University of Chicago School of Business (Strategic Sales Management) and North-western University – Kellogg School of Management (Strategic consumer marketing).