The organization’s strength lies not only in its projects but also in its highly qualified leadership. This post highlights key executives shaping the future of development finance in South Africa.
Michael Hillary – Group Executive: Financing Operations
Michael Hillary, born in 1970, has been a cornerstone of DBSA’s operations since his appointment in 2012. With academic qualifications including an MBA and BCom Hons from the University of the Witwatersrand, along with a CAIB (SA) certification from the Institute of Bankers, Michael brings deep financial acumen to his role. Under his leadership, DBSA’s financing operations continue to align with South Africa’s developmental goals.
Catherine Koffman – Group Executive: Project Preparation
Catherine Koffman has been pivotal in guiding DBSA’s project preparation unit since her appointment in 2021. With a strong legal background—holding both a Master of Laws and Bachelor of Laws from the University of the Witwatersrand—alongside an MBA earned from the London School of Economics and other leading global institutions, she ensures that DBSA’s projects are well-prepared, compliant, and ready to advance development goals.
Mpho Kubelo – Chief Risk Officer
Mpho Kubelo, who joined DBSA in 2007 and became its Chief Risk Officer in 2017, brings a robust mix of engineering and finance expertise. Armed with an MBA, a CFA Charter, and an MS in Risk Management from New York University’s Stern School of Business, Mpho is integral to DBSA’s risk management strategy, ensuring that infrastructure investments are both secure and sustainable.
Mpho Mokwele – Group Executive: Transacting
Appointed in November 2023, Mpho Mokwele brings more than 15 years of DBSA experience to her role as Group Executive: Transacting. A Chartered Accountant (SA) with an Advanced Management Programme from INSEAD, Mpho is responsible for ensuring the effective transaction of DBSA’s development projects, aligning financial strategies with the organization’s goals.
Sheila Motsepe – Group Executive: Human Capital
Since 2019, Sheila Motsepe has been responsible for DBSA’s human capital development. Her background in Clinical Psychology and Social Work, alongside an MBA from GIBS, equips her to manage the bank’s most important asset—its people. Under her leadership, DBSA continues to cultivate a culture of growth, diversity, and innovation.
Mohale Rakgate – Chief Investment Officer: Infrastructure Fund
As Chief Investment Officer since 2017, Mohale Rakgate leads DBSA’s Infrastructure Fund. His qualifications, including an MSc in Global Finance and experience in project and infrastructure finance, make him a key player in DBSA’s mission to develop and implement infrastructure projects that drive economic growth in South Africa and beyond.
Chuene Ramphele – Group Executive: Infrastructure Delivery
Chuene Ramphele, who joined DBSA in 2010, has been leading infrastructure delivery since 2018. With an MBL from UNISA’s Graduate School of Business Leadership and extensive public management experience, Chuene ensures that DBSA’s projects are delivered efficiently and sustainably, contributing to the region’s long-term development goals.
Mohan Vivekanandan – Group Executive: Client Coverage
Mohan Vivekanandan, part of DBSA since 2014, leads the client coverage division. His academic journey spans institutions like Kellogg School of Management and HKUST-NYU Stern, with expertise in finance and economics. Mohan ensures that DBSA builds strong relationships with its clients, fostering partnerships that propel infrastructure projects forward.