Accenture boss Vukani Mngxati to become Microsoft’s CEO in South Africa
Vukani Mngxati, the boss of Accenture in South Africa, is set to take on a new challenge as the incoming CEO of Microsoft in South Africa.
Effective 1 October 2025, Mngxati will steer Microsoft’s strategic direction and operations in the South African market. His focus will include expanding the company’s cloud infrastructure, broadening its client base across key domains such as business applications, cloud and AI, and strengthening partnerships aligned with South Africa’s national development priorities.
Mngxati brings more than 25 years of experience in consulting, technology, and enterprise modernisation to the role. He joins Microsoft from Accenture, where he held several leadership positions, most recently serving as Chief Executive Officer and Chairman. In this capacity, he oversaw the full spectrum of Accenture’s service offerings – including consulting, technology, business process outsourcing, creative services, and industrial operations.
Over his 25-year career at Accenture, Mngxati rose from Analyst to Managing Director within 18 years, working across multiple industries. As Managing Director, he led the firm’s Health and Public Service portfolio.
Naim Yazbeck, President for Microsoft Middle East and Africa, said: “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 into its next era of innovation and growth in South Africa. 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 the benefits of technology are felt by all.”
Mngxati added: “Stepping into this role in 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.”
Lillian Barnard, who most recently oversaw the business in South Africa, has stepped into a new leadership role as Chief of Enterprise Partners for the Middle East and Africa. Accenture has meanwhile appointed Kgomotso Lebele as his successor.
