Beauty Apleni Takes Helm as Openserve CEO, Leading South Africa’s Critical Fixed-Line Network
Johannesburg, South Africa – On 1 July 2025, Beauty Apleni assumed the role of Chief Executive Officer at Openserve, Telkom’s wholesale fixed-line division, marking a significant milestone in South Africa’s telecommunications landscape. As the new CEO, Apleni now oversees the country’s most vital fixed-line network infrastructure, a backbone supporting millions of connections nationwide.
The Strategic Importance of Openserve
Openserve operates South Africa’s largest fixed-line network, managing critical infrastructure that enables DSL broadband, landline telephone services, and fibre connectivity across the nation. The company’s wholesale services form the foundation for internet service providers (ISPs), fostering competition and innovation in South Africa’s broadband market.
“Without Openserve’s infrastructure, much of South Africa’s internet and voice traffic simply wouldn’t function,” explains telecommunications analyst Thando Mkhize. “They’re the invisible force keeping businesses, government services, and everyday communications running smoothly.”
Apleni’s Vision for Openserve
In her inaugural address, Apleni emphasized Openserve’s pivotal role in South Africa’s digital transformation: “As I take on this new chapter, I’m acutely aware of Openserve’s significance within the Telkom Group and our vital role in enabling South Africa’s digital future.”
The new CEO brings extensive experience to the position, having served in various leadership roles at Telkom over her 25-year career with the company. Apleni succeeds acting CEO Selby Khuzwayo, who held the position on an interim basis since December 2024.
Career Journey: From IT Intern to CEO
Apleni’s career trajectory demonstrates remarkable progression:
- 2000: Joined Telkom as IT intern after completing Computer Science degree at Nelson Mandela University
- 2010-2015: Held executive roles at Cybernest (Telkom’s data center division)
- 2015-2016: Chief Information Officer for Telkom’s retail business
- 2016-2019: Chief Technology and Information Officer for consumer/small business division
- 2019-2022: Chief Technology and Sales Officer for consumer business
- 2022-2025: Group Executive for M&A, then Chief of Staff for Strategy
Key Achievements and Leadership Style
Throughout her career, Apleni has delivered several groundbreaking achievements:
- Implemented South Africa’s first fully cloud-hosted mobile architecture
- Led Telkom’s 2G network shutdown strategy
- Improved fibre and mobile installation delivery times
- Spearheaded the R6.75-billion disposal of Telkom’s towers business, Swiftnet
Telkom Group CEO Serame Taukobong praised Apleni’s appointment: “Beauty’s experience and strong knowledge of our businesses, M&A, and the ICT industry place her in an excellent position to lead Openserve’s growth and sustainability.”
The Road Ahead for Openserve
Industry experts anticipate Apleni will focus on:
- Expanding fibre network coverage to underserved areas
- Enhancing wholesale services for ISPs
- Modernizing infrastructure to support 5G and IoT technologies
- Strengthening network resilience and security
As South Africa continues its digital transformation journey, all eyes will be on Apleni’s leadership at this critical network operator. Her deep institutional knowledge and proven track record position her well to navigate the challenges and opportunities ahead in South Africa’s rapidly evolving telecommunications sector.
Source: MyBroadband