Nigerian food delivery startup Chowdeck has made a strategic move in its international expansion plans by hiring Henry Whyte, former senior operations manager at Bolt Ghana, to lead its operations in Ghana. This marks a significant step in Chowdeck's growth strategy, as it looks to tap into the growing demand for food delivery services in West Africa.

Whyte, who has been with Bolt Ghana since 2018, brings a wealth of experience to Chowdeck. He joined Bolt as a customer support specialist and rose through the ranks to become operations manager in 2020. His expertise in logistics and operations will be invaluable to Chowdeck as it looks to establish a strong foothold in Ghana.

This move is not the first time Chowdeck has tapped rival talent for leadership roles. In July 2024, the company hired Umar Nas'ir, former head of Bolt Nigeria, to lead its Nigerian operations. Nas'ir's experience in leading Bolt's operations across 20+ cities in Nigeria will be crucial in helping Chowdeck expand its reach in the country.

Chowdeck's expansion into Ghana is a natural progression for the company, given its existing presence in Nigeria. The startup, which is backed by Y Combinator, has been making significant strides in the Nigerian market, and its entry into Ghana is expected to further consolidate its position in West Africa.

The company's asset-light last-mile logistics service, which Bolt has been doing for years in Ghana and Nigeria, will also be a key area of focus for Whyte and his team. With Whyte's expertise in logistics and operations, Chowdeck is well-positioned to leverage its logistics service to drive growth in Ghana.

The hiring of Whyte and Nas'ir is a clear indication of Chowdeck's ambitions to go beyond food delivery and establish itself as a major player in the logistics space. The company's ability to attract top talent from rival companies is a testament to its growth potential and its commitment to expanding its reach in West Africa.

As Chowdeck continues to expand its operations in Ghana and Nigeria, it will be interesting to see how the company navigates the competitive landscape in both countries. With its focus on logistics and its ability to attract top talent, Chowdeck is well-positioned to make a significant impact in the West African market.