Interview

Cricket enthusiast and Shoprite Group CTO Chris Shortt has masterfully navigated organisational culture, secured buy-in and spearheaded the retail giant’s largest-ever point-of-sale (POS) system upgrade – transforming 29,000 till points with precision and impact.

The African proverb ‘Umuntu ngumuntu ngabantu’, which translates to ‘I am because we are’, perfectly encapsulates Mpilo Technologies CTO Sizwe Mabanga’s belief that great leaders are shaped by their communities. 

Technology leader Verushca Hunter, has combined her passion for healthcare and providing a healing touch with technology – and business strategy – bringing her career full circle.

Josiah Moloi, PPS sector CIO: shared services, says his goal is to connect people, simplify complexity and bridge two worlds.

Slow innovation can have a knock-on effect on your business, as companies cut down on IT costs, but steps can be taken to optimise tech teams while keeping them motivated, agile and innovative.

Forget the traditional first 100 days – Thabani has set his sights on achieving a clean audit finding and establishing a clear digital transformation roadmap in the first 90 days in his role. 

In the world of retail technology, Massmart Africa CTO Nicole Harris stands out as a beacon of inspiration. From a fast-tracked academic career to embracing motherhood at a young age, Nicole’s resilience, determination, and a deep-rooted faith have resulted in her ability to connect with people, empathise, and still get the job done.

Although he’s been programming from a young age, Peter Robb only knew he wanted to be in IT when two CIOs suggested he’d be good at it – now he is the CIO of Omnia.

Here are some books, ranging from historical insights to technical expertise, suggested by South Africa's top CIOs.

CIO South Africa caught up with Eugene van der Lingen, chief information officer at the Africa Health Research Institute and Aveena Mothilall, group head of data and analytics at Engen, to find out what areas they’ll be prioritising in 2025.

Shaped by a strong upbringing, Maletsema Phofu, CIO (designate) at the University of Johannesburg, is determined to drive meaningful social change – both professionally and personally. She is preparing to lead the university’s 2025 strategy, which aligns deeply with her passion for empowering people and fostering a cyber-savvy society.

As the Quality Council for Trades and Occupations’ (QCTO) director of IT, Tafadzwa Ramhewa and his team are fortifying back-end systems and implementing rigorous quality assurance processes to combat fraudulent qualifications and elevate the credibility of tradesmen.

Discovery CDO Siphamandla Masuku has a passion for learning more about the human condition. His distinct approach to innovation integrates theoretical frameworks, cutting-edge technology and an in-depth understanding of human behaviour.

The initiative focuses on addressing key skill shortages in areas such as cybersecurity, networking, and software development, explains Jezeiyn Naidoo, head of operations and partnerships at Digital Skills Africa.

Following Deloitte’s recently published 2024 Chief Data Officer Survey, CIO South Africa caught up with Omeshnee Naidoo, CIO programme leader and director: digital engineering at Deloitte Africa, to gain her insights into the evolving responsibilities of the chief data officer (CDO).

Brendon Wilson, CIO at the NSRI, has always loved being around water and knew very early in his career that he wanted to become a mechanical engineer so he could build boats. “I was fascinated with them, particularly motorised yachts,” he says.

Wits CISO Galeboe Mogotsi believes that AI is rapidly transforming higher education by enhancing learning experiences and much more. During his sit-down with CIO South Africa, Galeboe shared insights on the transformative role AI is set to play in shaping the future of academia.

Rainbow Chicken’s head of IT Ugan Reddy is confidently “counting his chickens before they hatch” as he gears up to implement his digital vision at the poultry producer. With his extensive experience in the industry, he is also committed to developing the next generation of IT leaders.

Galeboe Mogotsi, CISO at Wits University, shares valuable insights and strategies that IT leaders can implement to secure their environments against the growing landscape of cybersecurity risks.

Galeboe Mogotsi, CISO at Wits University, brings more than just technical prowess to the cybersecurity field. He’s a football enthusiast and an advocate for a healthy work-life balance.