PwC South Africa names Anastacia Tshesane as future Chief Executive

Veteran audit partner with nearly 20 years at the firm will assume leadership in July 2026, succeeding Shirley Machaba who retires after leading the South African operations since 2019.

PwC South Africa appoints former Chair of the firm’s Africa Governance Board, Anastacia Tshesane as the next CEO, effective 1 July 2026

Professional services giant PwC has selected Anastacia Tshesane to lead its South African operations starting July 1, 2026, marking a leadership transition for one of the country's largest consulting and audit firms.

Currently serving as head of both PwC South Africa's Governing Board and the PwC Africa Governance Board since mid-2021, Tshesane will transfer these positions to Alsue du Preez upon assuming the chief executive role. Du Preez, who leads PwC Africa's insurance practice, brings nearly two decades of partnership experience focused on major financial services organizations.

Tshesane's career at PwC spans almost 20 years, during which she has built substantial credentials as an audit partner. Her portfolio encompasses financial services, consumer markets, and industrial sectors, including oversight of audits for significant domestic and international corporations. Her management philosophy emphasizes quality standards, ethical practices, diversity, and workforce development.

"Anastacia has played a pivotal role in our expansion and in elevating audit standards," stated Dion Shango, who leads PwC Africa. "Her collaborative work with leadership, clients, and partners has been exceptional. She brings deep insights into our client base, workforce, and organizational culture that have strengthened PwC's position."

The leadership change will see current chief executive Shirley Machaba step down after completing her term on June 30, 2026, capping a 24-year tenure with the organization.

"Leading PwC South Africa has been extraordinarily rewarding," Machaba noted. "We've established a strong legacy focused on building societal trust and addressing critical challenges. Anastacia is well-positioned to advance this work further."

Tshesane expressed enthusiasm for the role, stating, "Maintaining excellence and trust remains paramount as we advance our people and client success. Building upon Shirley's robust framework represents both an opportunity and responsibility. Her leadership sets a high standard, and I appreciate Dion's ongoing guidance as we continue driving value for clients and teams."