Media24 Executive and Leadership Team

May, 2026

Leadership Overview

Media24 has 4 executives leading key functions including strategy, finance, legal, and technology.

Driven by a commitment to journalistic integrity and digital innovation, Media24 stands as Africa's largest publisher, printer, and distributor, shaping the media landscape through its extensive print and digital operations.

Leadership Roles at Media24

  • Sub Divisional Chief Executive Officer - Peter Toit
  • Chief Financial Officer - Johan Botha
  • General Counsel - Su- Anne van der Merwe
  • Chief Technology & AI Officer - Mergan Velayudan
  • Peter Toit - Sub Divisional Chief Executive Officer

    Peter Toit, the Sub Divisional Chief Executive Officer at Media24, directs the strategic vision and operational execution across the company's extensive print and digital media activities. This leadership role involves guiding the integration of traditional publishing with emerging digital platforms, ensuring Media24 maintains its position as Africa's largest publisher. Toit oversees the performance of various business units, driving growth and innovation in newspaper and magazine publishing, as well as the digital content generated by the 24.com web portals. The focus remains on expanding market reach and enhancing reader engagement through diversified content strategies. Peter Toit's executive oversight ensures alignment with the broader objectives of Naspers, Media24's parent company, by optimizing resource allocation and fostering a culture of continuous improvement across all publishing and printing operations. This involves managing key relationships with stakeholders and driving the company's long-term strategic development within the dynamic African media market.

    Johan Botha - Chief Financial Officer

    Johan Botha, the Chief Financial Officer at Media24, manages all financial operations and fiscal strategy for Africa's largest publisher. This critical function involves overseeing budgeting, financial planning, risk management, and reporting across Media24's diverse portfolio, which includes print media, magazine publishing, and digital web portals. Botha ensures robust financial controls are in place to support the company's extensive printing and distribution activities. His responsibilities extend to optimizing capital allocation, driving profitability, and maintaining strong relationships with financial institutions and investors. Johan Botha's leadership guides the financial health of the organization, enabling strategic investments in new technologies and market expansion. By meticulously analyzing financial performance and market trends, the Chief Financial Officer provides essential insights that inform executive decision-making, ensuring Media24's sustained growth and financial stability within the competitive South African media sector.

    Su- Anne van der Merwe - General Counsel

    Su- Anne van der Merwe, the General Counsel at Media24, provides comprehensive legal counsel and oversees all legal affairs for Africa's leading media conglomerate. This role encompasses managing corporate governance, regulatory compliance, intellectual property, and litigation across Media24's extensive publishing, printing, and digital operations. Van der Merwe ensures that all business activities, from newspaper and magazine publishing to the internet activities of 24.com, adhere strictly to South African and international legal frameworks. Her expertise is vital in navigating the complex legal landscape of the media industry, safeguarding the company's interests and reputation. Su- Anne van der Merwe's strategic guidance supports Media24's expansion initiatives and protects its assets, ensuring operational integrity and mitigating legal risks. The General Counsel's office plays a pivotal role in maintaining ethical standards and fostering a secure operating environment for all Media24 entities.

    Mergan Velayudan - Chief Technology & AI Officer

    Mergan Velayudan, the Chief Technology & AI Officer at Media24, spearheads the technological innovation and artificial intelligence strategy for Africa's largest publisher. This executive role drives the digital transformation across Media24's diverse operations, including print media, magazine publishing, and the 24.com web portals. Velayudan oversees the development and implementation of cutting-edge technology solutions, focusing on enhancing content delivery, optimizing operational efficiency, and exploring new revenue streams through AI-driven insights. His leadership ensures Media24 remains at the forefront of technological advancement in the media industry. Mergan Velayudan's mandate includes managing the company's IT infrastructure, cybersecurity, and data analytics capabilities, fostering a culture of innovation. By integrating advanced AI technologies, the Chief Technology & AI Officer aims to personalize user experiences and streamline complex publishing and printing processes, solidifying Media24's competitive edge.
    Mergan Velayudan

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    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Media24 Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads Media24?
    Media24 is led by Peter Toit (Sub Divisional Chief Executive Officer), along with executives such as Johan Botha (Chief Financial Officer) and Su- Anne van der Merwe (General Counsel).
    Who is part of Media24’s executive team?
    The executive team of Media24 includes leaders such as Peter Toit (Sub Divisional Chief Executive Officer), Johan Botha (Chief Financial Officer), Su- Anne van der Merwe (General Counsel) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does Media24 have?
    Media24 has 4 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in Media24’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of Media24 includes roles such as Sub Divisional Chief Executive Officer, Chief Financial Officer, General Counsel, Chief Technology & AI Officer.