By TMR

Sime Darby Plantation Bhd’s (SDP) current upstream COO Mohamad Helmy Othman Basha (picture) has been appointed as its deputy MD effective Jan 1 next year.

In an exchange filing last Friday, the edible oil’s concern noted Mohamad Helmy will understudy current MD Tan Sri Mohd Bakke Salleh, who is retiring in June 2019.

“The appointment is part of the company’s plan to ensure seamless succession at its top leadership subject to performance appraisal and final approval of the board of directors.

Apart from assisting the MD with the overall running of the group, Mohamad Helmy will continue to be responsible over the plantation’s upstream business,” the company noted.

Mohamad Helmy, 51, has more than 18 years experience in the plantation industry.

He is a chartered accountant and began his career as an auditor with Wellers Accountants, Oxford, UK.