In an industry often dominated by men, Faith Burn stands out as a beacon of leadership and innovation in the tech sector. As the Chief Information Officer (CIO) of Eskom Holdings SOC Ltd, she is not only navigating the complexities of one of South Africa’s largest power utilities but also setting a precedent for women in technology.
Faith’s journey to the helm of Eskom began with a solid academic foundation. She earned her Master of Science in Mathematics from the University of Johannesburg and an MBL in Project Management from UNISA. These qualifications paved the way for a career marked by significant achievements and leadership roles. Prior to her appointment at Eskom in May 2020, she served as the Group CIO at Tsebo Solutions Group and held critical IT leadership positions at Novartis and ACSA.
At Eskom, Faith faces the dual challenge of enhancing the utility’s IT infrastructure while navigating the broader complexities of South Africa’s energy landscape. Her strategic vision involves leveraging technology to improve operational efficiency and drive innovation, particularly in an era marked by rapid technological advancement and increasing environmental concerns.
Her journey has not been without its hurdles. As a woman in a senior executive role, she has encountered challenges that many female leaders face in the tech industry, from breaking through glass ceilings to advocating for diversity in the workplace. Yet, her resilience and dedication to good governance have positioned her as a role model for aspiring female technologists.
Faith is passionate about mentoring young women and promoting gender diversity in tech. She actively participates in initiatives aimed at inspiring the next generation, believing that representation matters.
As she looks to the future, Faith remains committed to fostering a culture of excellence within her team and the industry at large.
In a rapidly changing world, Faith Burn is not just keeping pace with technological advancements; she is leading the charge, ensuring that Eskom remains at the forefront of the energy sector while championing the values of excellence, governance, and inclusivity.