Leaders Unscripted – Eskom chairman Mteto Nyati discusses the energy utility’s impressive turnaround

 ·19 Nov 2025

In this episode of Leaders Unscripted – an EY Transformative Podcast Series – Mteto Nyati discusses how South Africa’s energy stability has improved during his tenure as the chairman of Eskom.

Nyati is one of South Africa’s most respected business leaders.

He has led some of the most influential companies in South Africa, with his resume including the following titles:

  • Group Chief Executive – Altron
  • Chief Executive Officer – MTN South Africa
  • Chairman – BSG
  • Managing Director – Microsoft
  • Director of IBM Global Technology Services – IBM

As a result of this impressive history of major leadership positions, Nyati is considered one of the foremost business thought leaders in South Africa.

He provided his valuable insights to the nation when authoring his number one best seller, Betting on a Darkie.

Furthermore, to recognise his achievements, the University of Johannesburg’s College of Business and Economics awarded Nyati an honorary doctorate in IT Management in 2021.

He also holds a BSc in Mechanical Engineering from the University of KwaZulu-Natal.

The interview

In this interview, Nyati discusses his career and how it has led him to his current role as the chairman of Eskom.

He explains why he values transformation so highly and explains what he believes successful transformation looks like.

Nyati then unpacks how his team has managed to pull South Africa out of regular load-shedding, and what internal transformation took place at Eskom to improve the embattled state entity.

He talks about the technologies that Eskom is using to optimise its operations, as well as how the energy provider is planning to ensure the future of Eskom remains bright.

Nyati, who has often stepped into organisations when they have faced pivotal moments, then discusses how he approaches leadership in such uncertain contexts.

He then provides his insights into the broader South African business environment, revealing where he sees the greatest potential for transformation and growth over the next five years.

Nyati concludes the interview by sharing his most valuable piece of advice to aspiring leaders who want to drive meaningful change.

Watch the full interview with Mteto Nyati, below.

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