Microsoft's new GM for Middle East and Africa (MEA), Mteto Nyati, has been tasked with developing an emerging market region over the next year, as the company seeks to tap into growth potential in emerging markets.
Nyati was promoted with effect from today, and has been replaced at Microsoft SA by Zoaib Hoosen, who has been the company's local COO since 2013.
Hoosen was promoted to COO from being the company's Enterprise and Partner Group director, a post he held for three years.
Addressing media at a briefing in Sandton this afternoon, Nyati said Microsoft wanted to double its presence on the continent in the next four to five years. He declined to provide current figures, but noted he could be developing staffing plans on a country-by-country basis.
Nyati's newly-created position covers all African countries except for SA, Nigeria and Egypt, as well as several Middle Eastern countries that have recently been beset by turmoil, such as Iraq.
Despite the rise in insurgence, he is confident these countries will yield long- and short-term growth opportunities. "You know what? There are challenges everywhere."
In addition to seeking growth opportunities for the software company, Nyati will assist leaders of its Nigerian and South African operations. SA is Microsoft's largest regional unit, accounting for about a quarter of all sales in the MEA segment.
Hoosen notes the local strategy will not be changed as he will build on the groundwork laid by Nyati, focusing on three areas: cloud skills, devices and access. The group aims to soon start launching more affordable devices and has already piloted an affordable broadband project and initiated skills development interventions.
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