Meet Our
Leadership Team

Karl brings nearly four decades of financial services experience to his role as CEO of Finance Africa. He began his career in asset-based finance and advanced through senior leadership positions at Standard Bank, where he served as Director of Origination and Sales for Vehicle and Asset Finance. His deep understanding of the South African lending landscape, combined with a passion for inclusive economic growth, led him to co-found Finance Africa — a business built on the belief that every entrepreneur deserves access to the capital they need to succeed. Karl is known for his client-centric philosophy, his commitment to building long-term relationships, and his drive to create meaningful impact across the African continent.

Thoko is a seasoned business leader and co-founder of Finance Africa, bringing extensive experience in corporate governance, business strategy, and financial services. Her background spans executive roles across multiple sectors, and she has been instrumental in shaping Finance Africa's vision for inclusive, transformative asset finance. Thoko is a passionate advocate for B-BBEE compliant business practices and the empowerment of women and previously disadvantaged entrepreneurs across South Africa. Her strategic insight and deep networks across the financial services industry are central to Finance Africa's growth trajectory.

Prof. Thabang Mokoteli serves as a Non-Executive Director on the Finance Africa board, contributing academic rigour and strategic perspective to the company's governance framework. With a distinguished career in academia and business, Prof. Mokoteli brings expertise in financial management, corporate strategy, and organisational development. Her academic credentials and practical business experience provide Finance Africa with an independent voice that strengthens board oversight, risk management, and long-term strategic planning.

Chris Harito serves as Chief Financial Officer for Finance Africa's South African operations, overseeing financial planning, reporting, compliance, and treasury management. With a strong background in financial services and corporate finance, Chris ensures that Finance Africa maintains the financial discipline and transparency required to serve its clients and lender partners with confidence. His expertise in structuring complex financial transactions and managing credit risk is central to Finance Africa's ability to deliver competitive, sustainable funding solutions.

Leon Kotze is the Chief Operating Officer at Finance Africa, responsible for overseeing the day-to-day operations of the business and ensuring seamless delivery of financing solutions to clients. With a background spanning operations management, process optimisation, and financial services, Leon brings the operational discipline needed to scale Finance Africa's platform efficiently. He works closely with the sales, credit, and compliance teams to ensure that every client interaction — from initial enquiry to final disbursement — is handled with speed, professionalism, and care. Leon's focus on operational excellence is a key driver of Finance Africa's reputation for fast, hassle-free approvals.