Optimism and Customer-Centric Leadership<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n Appointed CEO in 2020, Richard Hirsch exudes optimism for South Africa\u2019s potential, emphasising the value of resilience and customer focus.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Under his leadership, Hirsch\u2019s, a family business founded in KwaZulu-Natal, celebrated 45 years of growth with 20 branches nationwide. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Hirsch prioritises customer service by spending time in stores to engage with staff and shoppers. He encourages excellence, believing survival depends on standing out in a competitive market.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Passionate about entrepreneurship, the company fosters women and small business networking events.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Hirsch\u2019s approach reflects a commitment to innovation and community, building on his family\u2019s entrepreneurial legacy.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Pieter Engelbrecht \u2013 Shoprite Holdings<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n Balancing Profit and Social Impact<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n CEO since 2017, Pieter Engelbrecht, champions Shoprite as a transformative institution beyond retail.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Leading Africa\u2019s largest grocery chain, he merges profitability with community upliftment through initiatives like job creation, skills development, and supporting small businesses. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Engelbrecht\u2019s legacy includes launching financial services like Money Market and acquiring strategic assets such as Computicket. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Shoprite\u2019s recognition as News24\u2019s Company of the Year in 2023 reflects its robust strategy and positive societal impact. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Engelbrecht\u2019s leadership emphasises the vital role Shoprite plays in millions of lives, from alleviating hunger to narrowing inequalities, portraying it as a beacon of stability and progress.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Roy Bagattini \u2013 Woolworths Holdings Limited<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n Driving Innovation and Supporting Youth Entrepreneurs<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n Since 2020, Roy Bagattini has leveraged two decades of global retail expertise to elevate Woolworths.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Under his leadership, the retailer achieved R76.4 billion in turnover in 2024, demonstrating its strength across diverse brands and portfolios. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Bagattini focuses on fostering entrepreneurship through initiatives like the Youth Makers Competition, which invests in young innovators. <\/p>\n\n\n\n His vision centres on deeper customer connections and maximising Woolworths\u2019 potential. Bagattini’s leadership combines operational excellence with social responsibility, reflecting his commitment to both financial growth and fostering innovation within South Africa\u2019s entrepreneurial ecosystem.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Mpumi Madisa \u2013 Bidvest Group<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n Breaking Barriers and Championing Representation<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n Appointed in 2020, Mpumi Madisa became the first Black female CEO of a top 40 JSE company. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Leading nearly 130,000 employees, she views her role as an inspiration for others, particularly women and people of colour, to ascend to leadership. <\/p>\n\n\n\n With 18 years at Bidvest, she stresses the importance of paving the way for future female CEOs. Madisa actively contributes to governance, serving on 16 subsidiary boards. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Under her leadership, Bidvest continues to thrive, balancing robust operations with a commitment to representation and breaking glass ceilings in corporate South Africa.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Dawie de Villiers \u2013 Alexforbes Group<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n Leadership as Coaching and Client Trust<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n CEO since 2018, Dawie de Villiers, likens his leadership to coaching, focusing on strategy, trust, and empowering employees. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Passionate about winning and doing the right thing, De Villiers fosters a culture of transparency, enabling employees to prioritise clients\u2019 best interests\u2014even when solutions extend beyond Alexforbes.<\/p>\n\n\n\n This customer-first ethos strengthens client relationships and bolsters business confidence. <\/p>\n\n\n\n His sports analogy underscores a commitment to teamwork, strategy, and adaptability, qualities that position Alexforbes as a trusted advisory firm under his dynamic leadership.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Sim Tshabalala \u2013 Standard Bank Group<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n Driving African Growth and Sustainability<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n Sim Tshabalala, Group CEO since 2017, leads Standard Bank, Africa\u2019s largest lender, with a strong focus on the continent\u2019s development. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Under his leadership, the bank reported R22 billion ($1.2 billion) in headline earnings for 2023, bolstered by growth in its banking, insurance, and asset management divisions. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Tshabalala emphasises the bank\u2019s commitment to sustainability, aiming for net-zero carbon emissions by 2040 and investing in renewable energy projects.<\/p>\n\n\n\n His leadership reflects a balance between financial performance and environmental stewardship, cementing Standard Bank\u2019s role as a driver of Africa\u2019s growth and a leader in climate-conscious initiatives.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Kenny Fihla \u2013 Standard Bank Group<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n Championing SMEs and Energy Solutions<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n Appointed Deputy CEO of Standard Bank Group and CEO of Standard Bank South Africa in 2024, Kenny Fihla is a seasoned leader with over 18 years at the bank. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Fihla focuses on supporting SMEs and implementing sustainability-linked financing. He leads initiatives to expand renewable energy projects, with the bank committing up to R300 billion ($16.9 billion) for the energy transition. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Fihla emphasises collaboration among financial institutions to address Africa\u2019s energy needs responsibly.<\/p>\n\n\n\n His strategic efforts ensure SMEs thrive while advancing the continent\u2019s shift toward renewable energy, solidifying Standard Bank\u2019s leadership in sustainability.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Dr. Gloria Serobe \u2013 WIPHOLD<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n Trailblazing Women\u2019s Empowerment and Investment<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n Co-founder of WIPHOLD in 1994, Dr. Gloria Serobe champions women\u2019s economic empowerment. Overcoming early challenges, WIPHOLD now boasts over 19,200 Black women shareholders and investments exceeding R3 billion ($169 million). <\/p>\n\n\n\n Serobe\u2019s leadership emphasises strategic involvement in sectors like financial services, mining, and agriculture.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Celebrating 30 years in business, she highlights WIPHOLD\u2019s pivotal role in clearing pathways for women in leadership. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Recognised with a Lifetime Achievement Award and installed as Chancellor of the Tshwane University of Technology, Serobe continues to advocate for greater representation of women in South Africa\u2019s corporate landscape.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Fani Titi \u2013 Investec<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n Leading Through Crisis and Promoting Sustainability<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n Appointed CEO during the pandemic in 2020, Fani Titi has steered Investec with resilience and vision. With sustainability as a core focus, Titi represents Investec on the Global Investors for Sustainable Development Alliance, working to unlock funding for the UN\u2019s Sustainable Development Goals. <\/p>\n\n\n\n A veteran leader, he co-founded Kagiso Trust Investments and has chaired Investec since 2011. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Titi\u2019s strategic leadership balances Investec\u2019s core businesses with delivering sustainable outcomes, reinforcing the company\u2019s reputation as a leader in private banking and investment.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Mustaq Brey \u2013 Brimstone Investment<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n Building Community-Focused Investments<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n Mustaq Brey, CEO since 1995, co-founded Brimstone Investment with a mission of community upliftment. Under his leadership, Brimstone\u2019s portfolio, valued at R2.7 billion ($152 million), includes key assets in the food, health, and insurance sectors. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Brey\u2019s dedication to the community extends to initiatives like the Saabri & Ashrafi Relief Fund and his role with the Mandela Rhodes Foundation, which empowers young African leaders. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Passionate about sustainability and growth, Brey balances reducing debt with expanding high-value assets like Sea Harvest and Oceana Group, driving both corporate success and community impact.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Adrian Gore \u2013 Discovery Group<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n Innovation Through Crisis<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n Adrian Gore, founder and CEO of Discovery Group since 1992, built the company into a global leader with operations in 41 markets and a market capitalisation of R100 billion $5.6 billion.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Gore attributes Discovery’s success to innovation during adversity, launching amidst South Africa’s political upheaval. <\/p>\n\n\n\n With 2.7 million beneficiaries in Discovery Health, the company also expanded into banking and investments. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Gore\u2019s leadership extends beyond Discovery, serving as Vice President of Business Unity South Africa and championing entrepreneurship and sustainable healthcare. <\/p>\n\n\n\n His forward-thinking approach reflects his belief that crises often catalyse innovation, fostering long-term societal and business impact.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Anton Pillay \u2013 Coronation Fund Managers<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n Fostering Long-Term Growth and Community Impact<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n Anton Pillay, CEO of Coronation Fund Managers since 2013, focuses on long-term value creation for investors and community development. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Coronation’s 2023 Sustainability Report highlights its commitment to primary education and food security, addressing South Africa’s socio-economic challenges. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Pillay emphasises a holistic approach, supporting teachers, parents, and students to unlock potential.<\/p>\n\n\n\n With extensive experience in investment and banking, Pillay also leads industry transformation as Chairperson of ASISA. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Under his leadership, Coronation balances financial performance with meaningful corporate social investment, earning the trust of investors while contributing to sustainable societal progress.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Paul Hanratty \u2013 Sanlam Group<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n Strategic Growth and Global Expansion<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n Since 2020, Paul Hanratty has led Sanlam Group through transformative growth, focusing on strengthening South African operations and expanding into Africa and Asia. <\/p>\n\n\n\n In 2024, the group launched SanlamAllianz in Ghana and acquired a majority stake in MultiChoice\u2019s insurance business. These strategic moves contributed to a 19% increase in net financial services results, exceeding $396 million in 2023. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Hanratty prioritises leveraging Sanlam\u2019s scale and market positions in high-growth economies. With a focus on stakeholder value creation, Hanratty\u2019s leadership ensures Sanlam\u2019s position as a dynamic, globally competitive financial services provider.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Gerrie Fourie \u2013 Capitec<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n Innovation and Entrepreneurial Leadership<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n Gerrie Fourie, CEO of Capitec since 2014, attributes the bank\u2019s success to a culture of innovation and client-centric solutions. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Ranked South Africa\u2019s best bank in 2018, Capitec reported $599 million in headline earnings in 2024. Fourie views entrepreneurship and innovation as integral to Capitec\u2019s DNA, driving its rapid growth and transformative impact. He fosters a culture where staff make client-focused decisions intuitively. <\/p>\n\n\n\n His leadership reflects his passion for building value-driven businesses, ensuring Capitec remains a market leader by consistently delivering innovative and accessible banking solutions.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Ajen Sita \u2013 Ernst & Young (EY)<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n Resilience Through Leadership Challenges<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n Ajen Sita, EY Africa CEO since 2010, guided the firm through the challenges of the Covid-19 pandemic by prioritising agility, client service, and staff motivation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Described as a strategic thinker, Sita champions the development of people and transformation across Africa\u2019s auditing profession. <\/p>\n\n\n\n He believes in consistency, curiosity, and embracing opportunities, which are values he instills within EY\u2019s culture. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Under his leadership, EY maintained strong business performance despite uncertainties, positioning itself as an adaptable and resilient professional services firm dedicated to supporting clients and empowering staff across the continent.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Shirley Machaba \u2013 PwC Southern Africa<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n Empowering Women and SMMEs<\/strong> She emphasises confidence and purpose-driven leadership, leveraging PwC’s resources to support SMMEs and promote corporate governance.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Through initiatives like the Faranani Program, Machaba has empowered over 4,200 women, with 68% running profitable businesses that address unemployment and inequality. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Her focus on inclusivity and climate-conscious supply chains demonstrates a commitment to both economic transformation and sustainability. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Under her guidance, PwC strengthens entrepreneurship and collaboration, leaving a lasting impact on South Africa\u2019s economic and social landscape.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Victor Sekese \u2013 SNG Grant Thornton<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n Modeling Corporate Responsibility<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n Victor Sekese, CEO since 1998, has positioned SNG Grant Thornton as a leader in diversity, inclusion, and sustainability. <\/p>\n\n\n\n With 75% Black and 25% female ownership, the firm reflects South Africa\u2019s transformation journey. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Sekese leads with the vision of making SNG a benchmark for corporate responsibility, fostering an inclusive culture and meaningful stakeholder engagement. <\/p>\n\n\n\n His focus on ethical leadership and societal contributions ensures the firm remains a model for equity and excellence. <\/p>\n\n\n\n SNG\u2019s commitment to gender and racial diversity, coupled with Sekese\u2019s strategic leadership, underscores its role as a transformative force in the business landscape.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Shameel Joosub \u2013 Vodacom Group<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n Driving Innovation in Telecoms and Financial Services<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n Shameel Joosub, CEO of Vodacom since 2012, has steered the company to groundbreaking innovations in telecommunications and financial services. Vodacom reported R151 billion ($8.5 billion) in revenue in 2024, serving over 200 million customers. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Joosub\u2019s strategic investments during crises like Covid-19 positioned Vodacom ahead of competitors.<\/p>\n\n\n\n With initiatives like the Super App, he integrates telecommunications with digital payments, fostering financial inclusion and redefining mobile money in Africa. <\/p>\n\n\n\n His leadership emphasises connectivity, entrepreneurship, and youth development, ensuring Vodacom continues to address pressing socio-economic challenges while driving technological progress across the continent.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Ralph Mupita \u2013 MTN Group<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n Championing Digital and Financial Inclusion<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n Ralph Mupita, MTN Group CEO since 2020, prioritises digital and financial inclusion across Africa.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Under his leadership, MTN reported $12 billion in revenue in 2024, expanding connectivity and transforming rural and urban lives. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Mupita leverages MTN\u2019s mobile money and fintech platforms to foster financial empowerment, aligning with the company\u2019s pan-African ethos. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Despite his unconventional path from civil engineering to telecoms, his vision emphasises dignity and opportunity through digital transformation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Mupita\u2019s commitment to scalable solutions ensures MTN continues to bridge the digital divide and unlock economic potential for millions across the continent.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Darren Hele \u2013 Famous Brands Limited<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n Resilience and Growth in Food Services<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n Darren Hele, CEO since 2016, has led Famous Brands to resilience amid economic challenges, adding 137 new restaurants in 2024. The company reported assets worth R3.5 billion ($197 million), maintaining market leadership with iconic brands like Steers and Wimpy. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Hele supported franchise partners during load-shedding, providing R21.6 million ($1.2 million) in relief while also promoting sustainable development through initiatives like the YES Programme. <\/p>\n\n\n\n With significant investments in Black-owned and women-owned businesses, Hele drives economic empowerment. <\/p>\n\n\n\n His strategic focus on innovation and sustainability ensures Famous Brands remains a cornerstone of South Africa\u2019s food services industry.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Anthony M. Leeming \u2013 Sun International<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n Navigating Challenges and Driving Growth<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n Anthony Leeming, CEO since 2017, has successfully guided Sun International through the hospitality sector’s challenges, particularly during and after the pandemic. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Under his leadership, the group achieved R6 billion ($339 million) in revenue for the first half of 2024, with a 71.8% growth in SunBet income. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Leeming emphasises supporting Black female-owned SMMEs as part of Sun International’s sustainability goals. Key achievements include the $16 million Sun City Vacation Club expansion, which incorporated local contractor involvement.<\/p>\n\n\n\n With strategic planning and stakeholder collaboration, Leeming ensures the group’s resilience while fostering community upliftment and economic growth.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Chris Du Toit \u2013 Tsogo Sun Group<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n Sustainability and Recovery<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n Chris Du Toit has been leading Tsogo Sun Group since 2019, guiding it through pandemic recovery. In 2024, the group reported R11.5 billion ($651 million) in revenue and outlined ambitious sustainability goals, such as expanding solar power generation and optimising water and energy use.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Du Toit has a strong background in gaming and entertainment, which aids in navigating challenging economic conditions. <\/p>\n\n\n\n His leadership ensures Tsogo Sun remains a key player in South Africa’s hospitality industry while focusing on environmental responsibility and long-term viability in an evolving energy landscape.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Dr. Thulani Dlamini \u2013 CSIR<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n Championing Local Innovation<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n Dr. Thulani Dlamini, CEO of CSIR since 2017, focuses on strengthening South Africa\u2019s industrial and scientific capabilities. <\/p>\n\n\n\n A former research scientist, he contributed to advancing photonics and innovation strategies. Dlamini emphasises reducing import dependency and stimulating local production to drive economic growth.<\/p>\n\n\n\n As a leader in science and innovation, he champions homegrown solutions for sustainable development. His involvement with the UNDP and ASSAf highlights his dedication to fostering global partnerships.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Dlamini\u2019s leadership ensures CSIR remains at the forefront of supporting South Africa\u2019s technological and industrial progress.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Nompumelelo \u2018Mpumi\u2019 Mpofu \u2013 ACSA<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n Revitalizing South Africa\u2019s Aviation Sector<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n Since becoming CEO of ACSA in 2020, Mpumi Mpofu has revitalised the aviation sector, recording a 16% revenue increase to R7 billion ($395 million) in 2023-2024.<\/p>\n\n\n\n With extensive public sector experience, Mpofu focuses on restoring confidence in South Africa’s airports post-pandemic. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Her leadership supports business and leisure travel growth, which is vital for economic recovery. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Mpofu\u2019s focus on operational efficiency and infrastructure development positions ACSA as a key player in Africa’s aviation landscape, driving connectivity and economic activity despite global challenges.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Serge Sacre \u2013 L\u2019Or\u00e9al South Africa<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n Celebrating Diversity in Beauty<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n As CEO since 2019, Serge Sacre champions inclusivity and authenticity in South Africa\u2019s $6 billion beauty industry. <\/p>\n\n\n\n L\u2019Or\u00e9al South Africa\u2019s initiatives celebrate African heritage, empowering communities through locally inspired products. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Sacre emphasises creating beauty solutions “designed by Africans for Africans,” fostering representation and cultural pride. Under his stewardship, L\u2019Or\u00e9al aligns business goals with social impact, seeking opportunities to uplift underprivileged communities.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Sacre’s leadership ensures the brand resonates with diverse consumers while contributing to the country\u2019s socio-economic growth.<\/p>\n\n\n\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/businesstech.co.za\/news\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/12\/Richard-Hirsch.jpg\")
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Shirley Machaba, CEO of PwC Southern Africa since 2019, is a trailblazer as the first woman in this role.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<\/a><\/figure>\n\n\n\n
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