In recent years, Africa has emerged as a vibrant hub of economic potential, with its most valuable companies leading the charge toward innovation and growth.
At the helm of these enterprises are visionary CEOs who not only steer their organizations through complex market dynamics but also play a crucial role in shaping the continent’s economic landscape.
In this article, WoA delves into the profiles of these influential leaders, exploring their backgrounds and leadership philosophies.
1. Carlos Coutino – International Breweries PLC
International Breweries Plc is a Nigerian brewery established in 1978, known for brands like Trophy Lager and Budweiser.
It operates under AB InBev, enhancing its market presence through significant investments and local production initiatives.
Carlos Coutino, the current Managing Director since January 2023, has extensive experience with AB InBev, having held various roles across multiple countries since 2004.
He previously served as the National Sales/Trade Marketing Director, where he significantly boosted the company’s market share in Nigeria.
2. Fabricio Bloisi – Naspers
Naspers is a South African multinational internet and media company founded in 1915, primarily engaged in e-commerce, fintech, and food delivery.
It operates through subsidiaries like Prosus, which holds significant stakes in various tech firms, including Tencent.
Fabricio Bloisi, appointed CEO of both Naspers and Prosus effective July 1, 2024, is known for transforming iFood into Brazil’s leading food delivery service.
3. Mary Vilakazi – First Rand
FirstRand Limited is one of South Africa’s largest financial services groups, operating through brands like First National Bank (FNB) and Rand Merchant Bank (RMB).
It provides a wide range of banking, insurance, and investment services across several African countries and internationally.
Mary Vilakazi was appointed CEO effective April 1, 2024, making her the first female leader of FirstRand.
She previously served as COO and has a strong background in finance, having held executive roles at Momentum Metropolitan Holdings and PwC.
Vilakazi emphasizes continuity and strategic execution to drive growth and innovation within the organization.
4. Sim Tshabalala – Standard Bank Group
Standard Bank Group, headquartered in Johannesburg, is Africa’s largest financial services group, offering comprehensive banking solutions across the continent.
Founded in 1862, it has evolved into a key player in promoting economic growth and development in Africa, with a presence in over 20 countries.
Sim Tshabalala, the CEO since 2017, has been with the bank since 2000.
He previously served as joint CEO and has held various leadership roles, demonstrating a commitment to digital transformation and sustainable development.
5. Gerrie Fourie – Capitec Bank
Capitec Bank, founded in 2000, is South Africa’s largest retail bank, serving over 22 million clients with a focus on simplicity and affordability in banking services.
Its CEO, Gerrie Fourie, has led the bank since 2014, driving significant growth and innovation.
Fourie began his career in financial planning and was instrumental in establishing Capitec alongside its founder, Michiel Le Roux.
Under his leadership, Capitec has been recognized as the world’s best bank in 2018 and continues to expand its offerings, including business banking after acquiring Mercantile Bank.
6. Mike Fraser – Gold Fields
Gold Fields Limited, headquartered in Johannesburg, South Africa, is one of the largest gold mining companies globally.
It operates in regions including Australia, Ghana, and Chile.
Established through the merger of Gold Fields of South Africa and Gencor in 1998, it has a rich history dating back to 1887.
Mike Fraser, appointed CEO in January 2024, previously managed South32’s African and South American operations.
7. Shameel Joosub – Vodacom
Vodacom is a leading telecommunications company in Africa, providing mobile voice, messaging, data, and financial services.
It has recently surpassed 200 million customers across the continent, marking significant growth under the leadership of Shameel Joosub, who has been the CEO since 2012.
Joosub has extensive experience in the telecom sector, previously serving as CEO of Vodafone Spain and holding various senior roles within Vodacom since 1994.
8. Alberto Calderon – AngloGold Ashanti
AngloGold Ashanti is a global gold mining company formed in 2004 through the merger of AngloGold and Ashanti Goldfields Corporation.
It operates 21 mines across four continents and is the world’s fourth-largest gold producer, with significant operations in Ghana, Australia, the US, and Argentina.
Alberto Calderon, appointed CEO in September 2021, emphasizes sustainability and safety in operations.
Calderon has a long history in mining, having previously transformed Ashanti Goldfields into a multinational entity.
9. Mohamed El Kettani – Attijariwafa Bank
Attijariwafa Bank, headquartered in Casablanca, Morocco, is a leading financial services group formed in 2004 through the merger of Banque Commerciale du Maroc and Wafabank.
It operates across multiple countries in Africa and Europe, focusing on universal banking services and sustainable economic development.
Mohamed El Kettani, who has led the bank since 2007, has a background in engineering and extensive banking experience.
Under his leadership, Attijariwafa Bank expanded its operations to 26 countries and enhanced its business model, positioning it as the fifth largest bank in Africa by assets.
10. Paul Hanratty – Sanlam
Sanlam is a leading South African financial services group, established in 1918 and headquartered in Bellville, Western Cape.
It operates across various sectors, including life insurance, investments, and corporate services, and is listed on multiple stock exchanges, including the Johannesburg Stock Exchange.
The CEO of Sanlam is Paul Hanratty, who has held the position since July 2020.
He has extensive experience in the insurance industry, having started his career in 1984.
Hanratty holds a degree in Actuarial Sciences from the University of Cape Town and is a Fellow of the Institute of Actuaries.
