Taelo Mojapelo’s versatility as an entrepreneur has been shown through the various leadership roles she has held across boardrooms in African. Her exceptional leadership not only drives high performance but also fosters diversity and gender equity by recognizing individuals’ unique strengths. With over 20 years of professional experience in supply chain leadership, strategy, and operational excellence, Taelo stands out as a leader who continuously breaks barriers.
As the CEO of bp Southern Africa (bpSA), Taelo has excelled in the traditionally male-dominated energy sector, leading the company through significant milestones, even after stepping into the role during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic and a period of historically low crude prices.
In an interview, Taelo shared her guiding philosophy: “In everything I do, how do I uplift other women and grow the men?” This mantra is reflected in her advocacy for equity and the notable increase in female representation at the executive level within bpSA under her leadership.
Taelo is committed to transforming workplaces into environments where all employees can thrive through value-based leadership.
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Early life and education
Born and raised in South Africa, Taelo holds a BSc in Chemical Engineering from the University of Natal, a Master’s in Environmental Engineering from Cambridge University, and an MBA from the Gordon Institute of Business Science (GIBS). She is also a Certified Supply Chain Professional (CSP) and a certified director with the Institute of Directors South Africa (IoDSA). Additionally, she lectures on modular supply chain management at the University of Witwatersrand.
Taelo Mojapelo’s corporate journey
Taelo began her career as a management trainee at South African Breweries before advancing as a scientist and supply chain expert, focusing on African markets. She held several senior operational and leadership roles at South African Breweries, Kellogg’s, and DHL Exel. Prior to joining bpSA, she was the Supply Chain Director at Mondelez International.
In April 2020, Taelo joined bpSA as the Head of Commercial Optimization and Supply for Southern Africa. Just two months later, she was appointed CEO, making history by taking on the role amid a global crisis.
Taelo’s leadership philosophy emphasizes the importance of making meaningful contributions to communities and empowering the next generation of talent. Throughout her career, she has remained committed to youth empowerment and purposeful leadership.
Leadership at bp Southern Africa
bp Southern Africa is one of the leading global petroleum companies, with over 500 branded service stations across South Africa and a 50% share in the SAPREF refinery in Durban—one of the largest refineries in Africa. Under Taelo’s leadership, bpSA’s workforce includes 45% women, with the same level of female representation at the executive level.
Taelo’s efforts to promote external empowerment are evident in initiatives such as bpSA’s sale of its East London fuel terminal to the black-women-owned WASAA and support for Makwande Supply and Distribution, a 100% black-women-owned enterprise, as a secondary transport operator.
Recognition and awards
In 2023, Taelo was included in Africa.com’s Definitive List of Women CEOs, recognizing her as one of the women leading major businesses in Africa. She was also named the Top Women Business Leader of the Year at the Standard Bank Top Women Awards, honoring her track record of exceptional business performance and innovative policies to empower women.
Personal life
Taelo is married and a mother of two boys. Reflecting on her life, she says, “I can tell you a lot about my academic and career successes, but these are meaningless if you are lonely. So, I guess it’s obvious what I value most—my family.” In her spare time, she enjoys reading, gardening, and traveling.
As Taelo continues to impact the worlds of entrepreneurship and leadership, she leaves us with words of wisdom: “We learn from failure—fear of failure robs you of the opportunity to be bold and courageous. Don’t be afraid to fail while trying.”
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