Microsoft has announced that Vukani Mngxati has been appointed as Chief Executive Officer of Microsoft South Africa, effective 1 October 2025. His appointment builds on Microsoft’s more than three decades of partnership and investment in South Africa, reflecting the company’s continued commitment to enable public and private sector companies to unlock the power of AI, and drive inclusive economic growth and long-term prosperity for all.
In his new role, Mngxati will lead Microsoft’s South African operations, driving initiatives that support the country’s digital and AI transformation journey. Leveraging the foundation built, he will focus on expanding cloud infrastructure, growing AI skills in local communities, and building partnerships that align with South Africa’s national development goals. His appointment further strengthens Microsoft’s local leadership as the company continues to equip South African businesses, government, and civil society with the technology and tools they need to innovate, grow, and compete globally – while enabling them to benefit from its strong partner ecosystem and global best practices.
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. 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.
With extensive experience in both technical and business leadership, Vukani Mngxati brings a strong track record in digital transformation, skills development, and strategic innovation to Microsoft South Africa. His passion for advancing health, education, and employability aligns with Microsoft’s commitment to empowering communities and driving inclusive economic growth, positioning him to lead initiatives that enable South African organisations to fully leverage cloud and AI technologies for lasting impact.
Reflecting on Vukani’s appointment, Naim Yazbeck, President for Microsoft Middle East and Africa, commented: “South Africa is at the heart of Microsoft’s vision for inclusive digital transformation, and our commitment to empowering every organisation with the transformative power of AI has never been stronger. 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. 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.”
Mngxati added: “Stepping into this role in Microsoft South Africa is a deeply meaningful and proud moment for me. I’m excited to continue the legacy and capitalise on the opportunity to help businesses – public and private, large and small – across South Africa unlock their full potential through cloud and AI technologies. By harnessing the strength of our partner ecosystem and global best practices, we’re not just driving competitiveness in South Africa; we’re enabling real, sustainable impact. I look forward to working closely with Naim, the South Africa leadership team and our customers and stakeholders to shape a future that’s inclusive, innovative, and digitally empowered.”
Lillian Barnard, who most recently oversaw the business in South Africa, has stepped into a new leadership role as Chief of Enterprise Partners, Microsoft Middle East and Africa, accelerating growth with enterprise partners in the region.