Valdene Reddy Appointed as JSE CEO, Succeeding Retiring Leila Fourie

Africa’s biggest stock exchange, the JSE, has announced that Group CEO Leila Fourie will step down on 31 March 2026, with Valdene Reddy poised to assume the role starting 1 April.

This announcement was made on Tuesday via a notification on JSE Sens.

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“Fourie has guided the JSE through a pivotal time characterized by strategic innovation, operational resilience, and inclusive leadership,” the notice indicated.

Reddy, who is currently the Director of Capital Markets at the JSE, is pending regulatory approval for her new role.

According to the JSE, “The board is confident that Reddy’s extensive industry experience, strategic vision, and strong stakeholder connections will help advance the JSE in a dynamic financial landscape.”

JSE chair Phuthuma Nhleko commented, “Leila has led the JSE with a clear strategy and steadfast commitment to transformation. Her leadership has been defined by innovation, operational resilience, and a profound sense of purpose.”

“Under her leadership, the JSE has demonstrated robust financial performance and transformed into a more inclusive, collaborative, and forward-thinking organization. On behalf of the board, I extend our heartfelt appreciation to Leila for her exceptional leadership and the lasting impact she has made.”

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Since her appointment in 2019, Fourie has made notable advancements in enhancing earnings quality, diversifying revenue streams, and modernizing technological and regulatory frameworks, according to the JSE.

“Fourie’s leadership has gone beyond financial performance and operational excellence. She has passionately championed inclusive leadership, sustainability, transformation, and regulatory excellence.”

“Additionally, Fourie has supported national private sector initiatives alongside CEOs of major South African companies to strengthen South Africa’s capital markets.

“These initiatives, led by the National Treasury, include Operation Phumelela and various efforts aimed at improving South Africa’s sovereign credit rating,” it emphasized.

“I am honored to be appointed Group CEO and look forward to guiding this institution into its next chapter,” Reddy remarked.

“My priority will be to foster innovation and enhance our competitiveness through ongoing strategic transformation. I am eager to collaborate with our talented team and esteemed partners to unlock new growth and impact opportunities,” she added.

The JSE Limited’s share price

Nhleko believes that Reddy’s extensive industry knowledge, strategic perspectives, and stakeholder relationships will drive the JSE toward long-term success.

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