Microsoft South Africa announced today that Lillian Barnard will be taking over the reigns as MD from the 1 March, following the resignation of Zoaib Hoosen.

Hoosen, who has been MD of the company for the past five years, was credited with overseeing the business’ evolution to the cloud and computing at the edge. Microsoft noted that he has also been pivotal in building programmes around digital skills development especially among the youth, helping to digitally transform education, and enabling access to technology for social impact, while also helping South African businesses to digitally transform.

Barnard has been the director for Public Sector at Microsoft since May 2017, and according to Microsoft, has more than 20 years’ ICT experience in leadership roles both in South Africa and internationally.  

The company elaborated that during her tenure at Microsoft, Barnard has pulled together a strong Public Sector team that has delivered innovative digital solutions and helped digitally transform the South African Government. She has also been pivotal in re-igniting the South African chapter of Women@Microsoft and spurring a culture that embraces gender equality in the workplace.

“South Africa continues to be one of Microsoft’s key markets to drive our digital transformation ambitions and empower governments, organisations and individuals to achieve more,” said Samer Abu-Ltaif, President Middle East and Africa at Microsoft. “Lillian is a seasoned professional with proven capabilities and a strong understanding of the region. We believe she is just the right person to take on this role and further strengthen Microsoft's commitment to South Africa to fuel economic growth, drive prosperity, and transform industries and societies,” he added.

“Succeeding someone who has led with such distinction is an honour. Zoaib has ensured that I will be taking over an extraordinary organisation. The business truly is in a strong position as a result of his commitment over the last five years. I am planning to continue to drive this growth as we move forward,” concluded Barnard.