CASE STUDY

In this conversation, he outlines how the AA is undergoing a major strategic shift centred on Digital Transformation, shares the technologies that excite him most and explains why modern CIOs must step up as strategic business leaders.

Can you walk us through your career journey and what led you to your current role as CIO?

I’ ve spent over two decades in IT, and it’ s been a rewarding journey built on problem-solving, collaboration and using technology to drive meaningful impact. I started out in technical support and gradually progressed through infrastructure, systems administration and solution design roles, each offering new perspectives and challenges.

A pivotal part of my journey was my time in consulting. It broadened my view and helped me think beyond internal systems to how tech can support diverse business models and customer needs.

Becoming CIO felt like a natural progression, not just in terms of responsibility, but in purpose. It’ s about shaping how technology enables people, processes and longterm strategy. Every step of the way, I’ ve come to believe more strongly that IT delivers the most value when it’ s deeply aligned with the core of the organisation.

What are the biggest technology priorities for your organisation right now, and how are you aligning them with business strategy?

This is an exciting and transformative time for the Automobile Association. We’ re in the midst of a strategic brand refresh that places digital innovation at the heart of how we serve our members. Our technology priorities are firmly aligned with our overarching business strategy, which is focused on growing our membership base, optimising operational efficiency, and amplifying our voice in the national mobility conversation.

Technology is the critical enabler of this vision. We ' re investing significantly in the automation and digitisation of key processes across the organisation. This will not only streamline internal operations, but also deliver a more seamless, intuitive and responsive experience for our members. From modernising our digital platforms to enhancing our customer engagement tools, we are reimagining how the AA connects with South Africans, making it easier than ever to access our support when they need it most.

Ultimately, our goal is to empower the business to focus more intently on what we do best: supporting and protecting our members on their mobility journeys. Through a future-fit technology strategy, we’ re laying the foundation for long-term growth, greater brand visibility and meaningful impact in the mobility ecosystem.

How do you see the role of the CIO evolving in today’ s fast-paced, digitally driven business environment?

The CIO’ s role has shifted dramatically. It’ s no longer just about keeping the lights on or managing infrastructure. Today, CIOs are expected to be business leaders who understand regulation, risk, strategy and most importantly the customer.

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