Raxio Group, a leading African data center operator, has announced the appointment of Robert Skjødt as its new Chief Executive Officer, effective January 1, 2025. Skjødt will succeed Robert Mullins, who revealed plans to step down in late 2023. Mullins will continue as an advisor to ensure a smooth leadership transition.
In a statement, Raxio outlined its ambitious plans under Skjødt’s leadership to at least double its presence across Africa within the next three years. The company currently operates Tier III carrier-neutral colocation data centers in Uganda, Ethiopia, Mozambique, the Democratic Republic of Congo, and Côte d’Ivoire, with projects underway in Tanzania and Angola.
Leadership Transition and Strategic Vision
Skjødt, who brings over 30 years of experience in energy, renewables, and infrastructure sectors, is poised to drive Raxio’s next phase of growth. His career highlights include leading the creation of BTE, a pan-African renewable energy company acquired by Engie in 2023, and holding senior roles at ABB, where he managed complex infrastructure projects and mergers across continents.
“Our goal is to accelerate Africa’s digital growth responsibly. By combining Raxio’s expertise in data center development with sustainable energy practices, we can provide essential infrastructure that not only meets the needs of today but also preserves resources for future generations,” Skjødt said.
Raxio’s expansion strategy prioritizes underserved markets with high growth potential, aiming to provide reliable infrastructure often overlooked by larger operators. The company’s long-term plan includes establishing data centers in at least five additional African countries by 2027, more than doubling its current capacity.
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Tributes to Outgoing CEO Mullins
The board acknowledged Mullins’ pivotal role in transforming Raxio from a single-project initiative in Uganda into a multi-country operation. “When we started, our mission was to build one data center in Uganda,” Mullins said. “Today, Raxio stands as the only operator with a presence in seven African countries. I am confident that under Robert Skjødt’s leadership, the company will not only expand its footprint but also set new standards for sustainability and operational excellence.”
Future Outlook
Raxio Group Chairman Frans Van Schaik highlighted the alignment between Skjødt’s track record and Raxio’s growth vision. “His leadership will be pivotal as we scale our operations and enhance our services to meet the evolving needs of our clients,” Van Schaik said. “With Robert Skjødt at the helm, Raxio is poised to lead the way in sustainable data center development, ensuring that our growth benefits both our clients and the communities we serve.”
The company’s approach to expansion emphasizes sustainability, with a commitment to integrating renewable energy practices into its infrastructure development to support Africa’s digital transformation.