JSE CEO calls it a day
Leila Fourie is retiring as Group CEO of the JSE, with Valdene Reddy taking over from April 2026.
The JSE announced that Fourie will retire as the Group CEO on 31 March 2026, ending a roughly seven-year period in charge.
The bourse said that Fourie has delivered a turnaround in earnings quality, diversified the group’s revenue base and modernised its technology and regulatory frameworks.
“Fourie’s leadership has extended beyond financial performance and operational excellence. She has championed inclusive leadership, sustainability, transformation and regulatory excellence,” said the JSE.
The group said that the JSE has pursued several regulatory improvements under Fourie’s watch, including reforms to the listing requirements, a voluntary carbon market, Sustainability and Actively Managed ETF segments and more.
She has also been the chief driver of several national private sector initiatives in partnership with CEOs of other major South African companies with the aim of improving capital markets.
These initiatives, under the leadership of the National Treasury, include Operation Phumelela and various engagements to motivate an upgrade to South Africa’s sovereign credit rating.
“Leila has led the JSE with strategic clarity and an unwavering commitment to transformation. Her tenure has been marked by innovation, operational resilience and a deep sense of purpose,” said Phuthuma Nhleko, JSE Chairman.
“Under her leadership, the JSE has delivered a robust financial performance and has become a more inclusive, collegiate and future-fit institution.”
Fourie said it has been a privilege to lead the JSE, as it plays a critical role in directing capital towards growth and opportunity across our economy.
“I have sought to channel that purpose and sense of stewardship during my tenure. I am indebted to my executive team and to all our staff for their commitment to the JSE’s success and for their contributions to building better markets,” said Fourie.
Her replacement
The board has appointed Reddy as the next group CEO, effective 1 April 2026. Reddy currently serves as the Director of Capital Markets at the JSE.
The board said that it is confident that Reddy’s deep industry expertise, strategic acumen, and stakeholder relationships will position the JSE for continued success
“It is an honour to be appointed as Group CEO, and I am delighted to lead this institution into its next chapter,” said Reddy.
“My focus will be on accelerating innovation and enhancing our competitiveness through ongoing strategic transformation.
“I look forward to working with our talented team and valued partners to unlock new opportunities for growth and impact.”
Fourie said that leading an institution like the JSE provides a unique platform to grow the national agenda and position the nation’s capital markets on the global stage.
“Having served as Group CEO since 2019, I feel the time is appropriate to pass the baton to Valdene as one of our own talents to step forward into this important leadership role,” she said.
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