The Southern African Venture Capital and Private Equity Association (SAVCA) has confirmed the departure of CEO Tshepiso Kobile, who leaves the role to pursue new professional opportunities after a transformative tenure at the helm of the industry body.
Kobile’s exit marks the close of a chapter defined by strategic repositioning, policy engagement, and internal renewal. She joined SAVCA during a leadership transition and helped rebuild capacity, recruit a new executive team, and reposition the organisation for relevance in a shifting investment landscape.
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During her term, SAVCA sharpened its advocacy voice in regulatory spaces, including active input on the Conduct of Financial Institutions (COFI) Bill and merger discussions involving the Competition Commission and the Department of Trade, Industry and Competition (DTIC). Kobile also played a key role in expanding the association’s mandate to reflect the full spectrum of private capital providers — including equity, mezzanine, and debt players.
Under her guidance, SAVCA elevated its presence on global platforms and championed conversations around responsible investment, cross-border capital flows, and diversity in the private capital ecosystem.
“Tshepiso’s tenure brought meaningful momentum to SAVCA,” the Board said in a statement. “She expanded our influence, broadened the conversation, and helped position private capital as a key player in economic transformation.”
SAVCA’s annual flagship conference also grew significantly under her leadership, with record attendance prompting a move to a larger venue. Internally, she helped modernise operations and align the association with the sector’s evolving demands.
To maintain continuity while the search for a permanent CEO gets underway, SAVCA has seconded one of its own board members, Nicola Gubb, to step in as interim Executive Director.
Gubb brings deep industry experience to the role, having held leadership posts at WDB Investment Holdings, Vunani Capital, RMB Fund Managers and HSBC. She will work with the executive team to sustain operations and drive strategic initiatives.
Her appointment is intended to ensure the association retains momentum and continues to represent the interests of venture capital and private equity players across Southern Afr
