Microsoft has announced that Vukani Mngxati has been appointed as Chief Executive Officer of Microsoft South Africa, effective 1 October 2025.
Mngxati will lead Microsoft’s South African operations, focusing on the country’s digital and AI transformation journey.
The group plans to expand cloud infrastructure, grow AI skills and build partnerships that align with South Africa’s national development goals.
Microsoft wants to expand its relationships with businesses, government, and civil society, with Mngxati leading the group toward that goal.
Mngxati will be taking over from Lillian Barnard, who most recently oversaw the business in South Africa.
Barnard will step into a new leadership role as Chief of Enterprise Partners, Microsoft Middle East and Africa, accelerating growth with enterprise partners in the region.
“Mngxati will draw on his more than 25 years of experience in enterprise modernisation and strategic innovation to lead Microsoft’s involvement in the country’s digital and AI transformation, preparing businesses to be future ready,” Microsoft said.
He has held several leadership positions at Accenture, most recently as Chief Executive Officer and Board Chairman, and pursued an entrepreneurial venture of his own earlier in his career.
Naim Yazbeck, President for Microsoft Middle East and Africa said South Africa is at the heart of Microsoft’s vision for inclusive digital transformation.
“Vukani’s appointment reflects our deep investment in the country and I am confident in his ability to lead Microsoft South Africa into its next era of innovation and growth,” he said.
“Under his leadership, we will continue to partner with public and private sector customers, partners and communities to unlock new opportunities, accelerate economic progress, and ensure that the benefits of technology are felt by all.” – Business Tech
