Staff Writer
OL has officially launched its OL Legends Alumni Programme, a new initiative designed to recognise former employees who have contributed to the group’s development over more than a century of operations.
The programme was unveiled at an inaugural event held in Windhoek, bringing together former and current employees to mark what the company described as a milestone in preserving its corporate legacy and strengthening long-term relationships with its people.
Speaking at the launch, OL chief experience officer Franziska Rüeck said the initiative reflects the group’s commitment to honouring its history and extending its culture beyond employment.
She noted that many former employees had already embodied the values now formally captured in the OL Persona.
Executive chairman Sven Thieme said the programme recognises the role generations of employees have played in building the organisation over its 106-year history.
He highlighted the importance of relationships, shared experiences and continuity, adding that former employees remain part of the group’s future.
“People brought us here. Authentic people, caring people, passionate people. You helped build our businesses, you shaped our persona, and you remain part of our future,” Thieme said.
Former OL Human Capital Director Berthold Mukuahima said the programme reinforces the message that contribution is remembered and valued beyond employment.
Former group chief operations officer Günther Hanke added that experience remains a key organisational asset and said the programme creates opportunities for mentorship and knowledge sharing between former and current employees.
Representing younger staff, OL Centre employee Ellen Geingos reflected on the importance of organisational culture, saying it is built through everyday interactions rather than formal structures.
She expressed appreciation for the foundation laid by earlier generations of employees and the standards they established.
The OL Legends programme is open to former employees who served at least five consecutive years and left the group in good standing.
Retirees, voluntary resignees and employees affected by restructuring may qualify, subject to alignment with company values.
According to OL, the initiative is built around three core objectives including honouring past contributions, strengthening connections between former and current employees, and supporting future development through mentorship and knowledge exchange.
The group noted that any benefits linked to the programme are discretionary and may change over time, and are not contractual in nature.
Founded in 1919, OL is one of Namibia’s largest privately held business groups, with operations spanning sectors including fishing, aquaculture, dairy, meat processing, retail, property, hospitality, renewable energy, engineering and IT services.
The OL Group operates through subsidiaries such as Hangana Seafood, Namibia Dairies, Hartlief, Broll Namibia, OL Leisure, OL Energy, Kraatz, Mach 10, OL Centre and OL BrandX.
