Schneider Electric, the global leader in energy management and automation, and recognised sustainability leader, has announced the appointment of Canninah Dladla as its new Cluster President for English-speaking (Anglophone) Africa, effective from 1 June 2025.
Dladla is Schneider Electric’s first female Cluster President for English-speaking Africa, which comprises 24 countries and is headquartered in Johannesburg, South Africa. The region is important to Schneider Electric due to its rapidly growing economies and expanding populations.
The firm, in a statement announcing her appointment, noted that the choice of Dladla as Cluster President for English-speaking Africa was due to her commitment and strategic effort, which is in line with Schneider Electric’s mission to promote sustainable growth through innovative energy management across the continent.
She succeeds Devan Pillay, who will transition into his new international role as Segment President, Heavy Industries, based in London, England.
“Dladla has a well-established history with Schneider Electric from 2008 to 2013, spanning various strategic roles, including the position of Vice President for the company’s Energy Business within its Power Systems division. She now rejoins Schneider Electric with an impressive 29-year career and a proven track record of impactful leadership.
“Dladla most recently served as Managing Director and Country Sales Director, Africa of Rockwell Automation, where she played a key role in championing business transformation and promoting cultural alignment, ensuring that global strategy was seamlessly adapted to local markets.
“As a brand and culture ambassador, Dladla was instrumental in driving Rockwell Automation’s expansion across both English- and French-speaking Africa, strengthening its regional presence while fostering a more inclusive and locally relevant approach.
Among other leadership roles, she also held an executive management role at GE Power, driving strategic accounts and key Business Transformation initiatives.
Commenting on the development, Zone President, Middle East & Africa at Schneider Electric, Walid Sheta, expressed confidence in Dladla’s appointment, noting that, “Her extensive industry expertise, proven leadership skills, and innovative vision will undoubtedly drive our operations and growth across English-speaking Africa.”
“Canninah will be leading this region on specific areas, starting with talent development and technology deployment towards our targeted segments through digitisation and electrification, whilst ensuring that we continue to empower our customers, partners, and communities across the continent,” Sheta added.
In her acceptance speech, Dladla said that Schneider Electric’s global and local expertise will enable her to drive innovative solutions and services, which will empower businesses and communities while unlocking new possibilities that create enduring positive effects for millions of Africans.
“I’m delighted to rejoin Schneider Electric at a time when Anglophone Africa shows great potential for transformation. The region holds many prospects for economic growth through improved infrastructure and expanded electricity access, with its combination of vast natural resources, growing urbanisation, and rising sustainable energy needs,” she said.
