Acsa begins CEO transition as Mpumi Mpofu exits in June

Airports Company South Africa (Acsa) has announced a planned leadership transition following the completion of CEO Mpumi Mpofu’s fixed-term tenure. Mpofu will officially conclude her six-year service at the state-owned organisation on 30 June 2026.

Leading through ‘unprecedented’ times

Mpofu’s departure comes after a period defined by significant global disruption and internal recovery for the aviation sector. During her six years at the helm, she was tasked with navigating Acsa’s operations through a volatile economic climate and spearheading strategic initiatives aimed at long-term stability.

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Irvin Phenyane, chair of the board of Acsa, noted that the board and the outgoing CEO have agreed on a “carefully managed transition” based on mutual cooperation.

“She has led the organisation through an unprecedented period within the global aviation sector and has overseen Acsa’s operations and financial recovery while advancing critical strategic initiatives that have strengthened the company’s long-term position,” Phenyane stated.

Interim leadership and the search for a successor

The board of directors has appointed Charles Shilowa as the acting CEO, effective 1 July 2026. Shilowa is an internal veteran of the organisation, currently serving as the group executive for capital infrastructure asset management, a position he has held since July 2023.

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Shilowa is said to bring a diverse corporate background to the acting role, having previously held senior leadership positions at Rand Merchant Bank, the South African Revenue Service (Sars), Sasol Technology, and Unilever.

Ensuring operational stability

The transition plan emphasises continuity, with Mpofu remaining in her role until the final day of her contract to work closely with the board, the executive team, and Shilowa. This collaborative handover is designed to ensure “continued operational stability” while the board begins the formal process of searching for and appointing a permanent CEO.

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