Ralph Tendai Mupita is a Zimbabwe-born engineer, businessman, and corporate executive who currently serves as Group President and Chief Executive Officer of MTN Group, Africa’s largest mobile network operator. His appointment took effect on 1 September 2020, following three years as the company’s Chief Financial Officer.
Background & Education
Born on 11 April 1972 in Zimbabwe, Mupita’s early education took him through Mutare Junior School, Churchill School, and Plumtree School. He later pursued higher education at the University of Cape Town (UCT) in South Africa, earning a Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering. He went on to complete a Master of Business Administration (MBA) at UCT, and further sharpened his leadership skills through the Graduate Management Program at Harvard University.
Career Journey
Mupita began his professional career as a civil engineer at Haw & Inglis Civil Engineering in Cape Town, where he worked for just over three years. In 2001, he transitioned into financial services, joining Old Mutual South Africa. Over the years, he held senior roles including Director of Strategy and Director of Retail for High Net-worth & Affluent Clients.
In 2012, he was appointed CEO of Emerging Markets at Old Mutual Plc, based in Johannesburg, a role he held until 2017. His leadership focused on driving growth across diverse markets in Africa, Asia, and Latin America.
In April 2017, Mupita joined MTN Group as Chief Financial Officer, where he played a pivotal role in strengthening the company’s financial position and guiding its strategic direction. His appointment as Group CEO in 2020 marked a new chapter, succeeding Rob Shuter and positioning him at the helm of one of Africa’s most influential telecoms companies.
Personal Life
Mupita is married to Makole Mupita, a chartered accountant and founder of Mahlako A Phahla Investments (Pty) Ltd, established in 2009. Together, they have four children.
