MTN South Africa CEO Charles Molapisi is set to return to his previous job as the operator group’s CTIO, in one of a number of changes at the helm of the company expected to drive an updated strategy.

Molapisi took charge of MTN’s operation in its home market at the start of 2022 and will be replaced by group chief risk officer (CRO) Ferdi Moolman.

The move comes as the operator divides its group CTIO and digital infrastructure roles. Current incumbent of both Mazen Mroue retains responsibility for the latter though takes on a wider remit within that digital infrastructure banner.

Another change at group level will see CFO Tsholofelo Molefe’s responsibilities extended to include M&A activity.

Its chief commercial officer Selorm Adadevoh will have strategy and transformation added, as current chief strategy and transformation officer Chika Ekeji moves to focus on emerging business opportunities.

MTN also unveiled several changes impacting operating units across its footprint due to the changing make-up of its international operations.

Current MTN VP for Southern and East Africa Yolanda Cuba is set to become deputy CEO of MTN South Africa.

VP Middle East and North Africa Ismail Jaroudi moves to VP of special projects alongside being CEO of MTN Dubai, while SVP markets Ebenezer Asante takes on the job of VP of Ghana, Southern and East Africa.

MTN Nigeria CEO Karl Toriola will have VP Francophone Africa added to his job spec.

All executive team changes are effective 1 November 2025.

Ambition beyond 2025
MTN explained the slew of changes were to “strengthen strategy execution and delivery” of priorities moving forward, defined by its board in a recent review of its ongoing Ambition 2025 strategy.

The company noted following the assessment and “evolving geopolitical, macroeconomic and technology landscapes” the broad objectives in its current plan were still relevant but outlined an aim to “streamline” its focus going beyond 2025.

Its upcoming drive revolves around three primary platforms of connectivity, financial technology and digital infrastructure.