CEZ AS’s Chief Executive Officer Martin Roman will leave his job at his own request and will become the head of the utility’s supervisory board, spokesman Ladislav Kriz said today when reached by telephone. Roman, who has been at the helm of CEZ for over seven years, will be succeeded by Daniel Benes, the company’s chief operating officer, Lidove Noviny reported on its website, citing a person close to Prime Minister Petr Necas.
Our view:
We see the news as negative for CEZ. Mr. Roman was well respected and recognized among investors as a head of CEZ, his strategy regarding the company proved to be successful during the years. Mr. Roman’s departure also might fuel speculations on rising political risks in the company. The new CEO will be officially announced today or tomorrow.