Microsoft has announced that Vukani Mngxati has been appointed as the new Chief Executive Officer of Microsoft South Africa, effective 1 October 2025. His appointment follows the exit from the role of Lillian Barnard last month, who has stepped into a new leadership role as Chief of Enterprise Partners, Microsoft Middle East and Africa.
Vukani has a strong business consulting background was the Chief Executive Officer for Accenture Africa, responsible for driving the company’s growth.
In his new role, Mngxati is set to lead Microsoft’s South African operations, driving initiatives that support the country’s digital and AI transformation journey. Leveraging the foundation built, The company has indicated that 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.
Vukani’s LinkeIn profile, details his passion for supporting development and growth in the broader community and it follows that his appointment seeks to further strengthen 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.
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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.
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.
Mngxati comments on his appointment that: “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.
Naim Yazbeck, President for Microsoft Middle East and Africa, commented: “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”.
