Lerato Molebatsi stands as a formidable force in African leadership, with a career spanning over 25 years in financial services, mining, government, non-profit, and professional services sectors. Her extensive work within the government—specifically in the Departments of Labour and Transport—provided her with a deep understanding of the intricacies of policy development and transformative change initiatives.
As a non-executive director at the South African Reserve Bank (SARB), Molebatsi is at the helm of one of Africa’s most critical financial institutions. Her work involves shaping governance in line with King IV corporate governance principles, ensuring that SARB operates with responsibility, accountability, fairness, and transparency. With a seat on the Board of Directors, she plays an instrumental role in maintaining the financial stability of South Africa.
Beyond SARB, Molebatsi’s influence extends across multiple sectors. She holds key roles as Deputy Chair of theAdrian Group in Kenya, and her previous executive positions at General Electric South Africa, Lonmin plc (now part of Sibanye Stillwater), and various senior roles at Old Mutual and Sanlam reflect her multifaceted expertise. Her career is a testament to her ability to drive significant projects and policy changes that uplift entire regions.
Her leadership journey has also brought her to the forefront of advocacy across the continent. From lobbying efforts to large-scale stakeholder engagements, Molebatsi’s work has impacted governments and major global institutions alike. She is a master of building relationships with decision-makers, using her vast network to initiate long-term strategic change. Her advocacy for Black Economic Empowerment (BEE) and stakeholder relations has only further solidified her position as a transformative leader.
On 25-26 November, Lerato will join other powerful women at the Standard Bank Top Women Conference 2024 as a speaker. Her insights into gender parity, leadership, and economic empowerment are sure to resonate with the audience of future female leaders. Her continued work ensures that her legacy is not only one of success but also one of lasting impact across Africa.
