Datatec Group CEO, Jens Montanana, has been named News24’s CEO of the Year, an award that recognises business leaders who have achieved excellent returns through strategic execution and innovation, while being transparent and making a larger contribution.
The award, now in its fourth year, is determined by looking at JSE-listed companies that have delivered the strongest investment returns in recent years. From a shortlist of contenders, News24 consulted fund managers and analysts on their views of the CEOs of these companies and how well they are delivering on commitments and operational excellence.
Impressive Strategic Reset
Datatec was among the top-performing companies over the past five years, with its share price gaining almost 60% in 2025 alone. Montanana founded the company in 1986, which has grown from a Joburg-based supplier of computer modems and other equipment to a global ICT giant with 11 000 employees in 50 countries in Europe, North America, Latin America, Africa, the Middle East and Asia-Pacific.
In recent years, Montanana is credited with achieving an impressive strategic reset of the group, with a big shift towards software and services, including cybersecurity, as seen on the Investopedia website. This is paying off in a big way, and he is lauded by analysts for expanding margins and unlocking value while forging key partnerships across the world.
Key Achievements
- Almost 60% increase in share price in 2025
- Strategic reset with a shift towards software and services
- Expansion into 50 countries worldwide
- 11 000 employees globally
Receiving the award at a gala event in Cape Town, Montanana said: “None of this would have been possible without the long term commitment to our own business sustainability.” He also spoke about the impact of technology, saying: “AI is going to be yet another disruptor in the continual evolution of technology, but it will also be an enabler for humans to significantly improve both their adaptability and usefulness.”
Montanana dedicated the award to Datatec’s 10 000 employees worldwide. The awards function was sponsored by Uber, with investment data for judging the award provided by PSG Old Oak, an independent platform profiling asset managers, discretionary fund managers, investment platforms and solution providers.
