Chief executive officer Loewn Steel departs Kojo after 6+ years to pursue new business endeavour

Creative storytelling company Kojo has announced that chief executive officer Loewn Steel (left) is leaving her role to pursue a new business endeavour.

Says Steel: “After a long and successful association with Kojo, I have decided to leave the company to establish my own consulting firm, working as a mentor for business leaders. As such I will be leaving Kojo as chief executive officer, effective from the end of January 2013. However, I will continue to consult to Kojo in my new capacity.”

Steel and Kojo’s managing director Dale Roberts (right) have worked closely over the past 12 months to ensure a smooth leadership transition. Roberts has been a partner with Kojo since 1995 and was appointed to the role of managing director in July 2011.

Says Steel: “Working with Dale has been a great experience, we share the same values and he is a born leader with a strong creative vision for the future of Kojo. I will enjoy watching his further expansion of the company into the eastern states over the next two years.”

Ms Steel joined Kojo in October 2006.

During her time as chief executive she has grown the business significantly to become a leading specialist in content, digital, events and post-production in Australia and overseas.

Says Steel: “I have genuinely valued and enjoyed my time at Kojo over the past six years. I love the creativity of business and the opportunities that arise when you challenge your traditional method of thinking and rules.

“Kojo is currently in the midst of the busiest quarter of its 21-year history with a string of new clients and major projects across Australia and overseas.

“We have recently appointed a creative director and head of digital – creating two new national roles within the company – expanded our pool of producers and invested heavily in new equipment. We are already seeing significant benefits.

“I am proud to leave the company in this strong position. Dale and the executive team at Kojo are exceptional leaders so the firm is in very good hands.

“It’s been an absolute privilege to work with such a talented group of people who have committed and contributed to the growing success of Kojo.”

Kojo chairman Steve Wise said Steel had made an invaluable contribution to the company.

Says Wise: “Loewn has been an exceptional leader for Kojo. In recent years she has successfully streamlined the business, bringing together eight separate entities under the one single brand. As a result of her commitment, passion and professionalism, Kojo is in a strong position with a bright future. We wish Loewn all the best in her future endeavours.”