Mark Barnes unpacks bailouts, bold plans and early decisions that shaped its future in this first episode of a three-part weekly seriesJune 22, 2026 at 11:58 amListen or watch as banker, financier, entrepreneur and former South African Post Office (Sapo) CEO Mark Barnes tells Peter Bruce the story of his appointment in 2016, its recovery from constant state bailouts, and his sudden exit in mid-2019 when President Cyril Ramaphosa, without warning, spun out Post Bank and, with it, Sapo’s future as a viable business.In Part 1 Barnes recalls his recruitment and his plans for turning around a desperate but vital state institution.Would you like to comment on this article?Sign up (it's quick and free) or sign in now.Please read our Comment Policy before commenting.