Telkom Names Beauty Apleni as Openserve CEO

Johannesburg – Telkom Group has announced the appointment of Beauty Apleni as the Chief Executive Officer of Openserve, South Africa’s leading provider of wholesale infrastructure connectivity, effective from 1 July 2025.

In her role, she will spearhead the continued growth and adoption of Openserve’s fibre network in line with Telkom’s data-centric strategy.

Apleni brings more than 25 years of experience in the ICT sector, with 15 years in executive leadership, emphasizing strategy formulation, implementation, and operational excellence.

Her diverse experience within Telkom Group includes:

• Telkom Consumer: Chief of Sales and Technology;
• Telkom Consumer: Chief Technology & Information Officer;
• Cybernest: Executive Service Delivery & Solution Design;
• Cybernest: Executive IT Outsource Services; and most recently,
• Telkom Group: Chief of Staff, Strategy and Mergers & Acquisitions.

Apleni holds a BSc in Computer Science from Nelson Mandela University and has completed various qualifications in management, strategy, and leadership.

Serame Taukobong, CEO of Telkom Group, highlighted that Apleni’s appointment reinforces the Group’s commitment to leadership continuity, a robust succession planning framework, and dedication to cultivating exceptional talent internally.

“Beauty’s vast experience and comprehensive understanding of our businesses, M&A, and the ICT industry make her well-suited to guide Openserve’s growth and sustainability in the future,” remarked Taukobong.

“I am confident that she will play a significant role in maintaining momentum and advancing the Group in a complex operational environment.”

Apleni expressed her excitement at the opportunity to lead Openserve into a digital future for South Africa.

“Having dedicated over two decades to Telkom, I am deeply committed to our mission of connecting all South Africans to a brighter future,” Apleni stated.

“I am grateful to the Telkom board for entrusting me with this responsibility.

“I look forward to collaborating with the group executive committee, the talented team at Openserve, and working alongside the entire OneTelkom family.”

Telkom extends its gratitude to Selby Khuzwayo for his effective leadership as Acting CEO since December 2024, ensuring operational excellence during the transition.

*This article first appeared in our sister publication techfinancials.co.za