Nompumelelo “Mpumi” Madisa stands as a symbol of transformative leadership and innovation in Africa’s corporate sector. Ranked as the second most powerful woman on the continent and 87th globally, the 45-year-old South African business leader continues to break barriers and inspire a new generation.
As the Chief Executive Officer of Bidvest, a South African services and distribution giant valued at $5.3 billion with nearly 130,000 employees, Madisa has achieved historic milestones. She became the first Black African female CEO of a top-40 company on the Johannesburg Stock Exchange when she assumed her role in 2020, cementing her place as a trailblazer in corporate governance.
Her journey began in Mohlakeng and Sebokeng, where she grew up under modest circumstances, raised by a single mother who was a teacher. Despite these challenges, Madisa excelled academically, earning a BSc in Economics and Mathematics, a BCom Honours in Economics, and a Master’s in Finance and Investment.
Madisa’s career spans over two decades, beginning as a trainee marketing assistant at Hollard Insurance. Her path at Bidvest started in 2003 when she joined Prestige, a subsidiary of the group, rising through the ranks to hold various senior roles, including corporate affairs director and sales director. Her exceptional leadership was recognized in 2019 when she was appointed CEO-designate of Bidvest, officially assuming the role in 2020.
Beyond Bidvest, Madisa is a prominent figure in global governance. She chairs the UN Global Compact SA board and Adcock Ingram and serves on the boards of 16 Bidvest subsidiaries. Her accolades include recognition as one of Africa’s top young leaders by the Choiseul 100 Africa and a finalist spot in Africa’s Most Influential Women in Business and Government Awards.
