Atana has appointed Bongani Mthombeni as its new Chief Executive Officer (CEO), marking a new chapter for the company as it continues its transition under independent local ownership.
Also see: Matthew Booth and Bongani Mthombeni join forces in business venture, Booth Africa
Bongani is a board member and executive leader within Atana, succeeding Interim CEO Vidar Johannessen, who has led the business since February. Her appointment is effective from 1 October 2026.
18 years of leadership experience
Bongani brings 18 years of experience across engineering, infrastructure and professional services, having held several senior leadership positions throughout her career.
She joined Atana in 2021 and has served as an Executive Director, board member and Director of the Smart Mobility Advisory Group. She is also a chemical engineer by training and holds a Master of Science and Bachelor of Science Honours in Chemical Engineering from the University of Cape Town, reported Business Explainer.
Her appointment comes as Atana continues its transition following its move to independent local ownership and a period of significant change.
BONGANI MTHOMBENI APPOINTED CEO
Atana has appointed Bongani Mthombeni as its new Chief Executive Officer.
A board member and executive leader within the company, she succeeds Interim CEO Vidar Johannessen, who has led the business since February.
Mthombeni brings 18 years of experience across engineering, infrastructure and professional services, having held senior leadership roles at several organisations.
Her appointment comes as Atana continues its transition following its move to independent local ownership and a period of significant change.
As CEO, she will focus on strengthening operational performance, deepening client relationships, developing talent and driving sustainable growth across South Africa and the wider African market.
Full profile – https://t.co/eL6GMSSX14
— Business Explainer (@businessXplain) October 6, 2026
Bongani Mthombeni’s priorities as CEO
As CEO, Bongani will focus on strengthening operational performance, deepening client relationships, developing Atana’s people and driving sustainable growth in South Africa and across the African continent.
Speaking about her appointment, Bongani said it was a privilege to lead a business with Atana’s history, expertise and potential.
She added that her focus would be on the company’s people and clients while building a strong, sustainable business recognised for technical excellence, trusted relationships and the impact of its work.
Also see: Bongani Mthombeni breaks her silence on her relationship with Matthew Booth
Bongani Mthombeni’s relationship with Matthew Booth
Away from her professional achievements, Bongani has also attracted public attention for her relationship with former Bafana Bafana defender Matthew Booth.
The couple’s relationship first became a major talking point in 2022 when Matthew’s then-wife, Sonia Booth, publicly accused him of having an affair with Bongani. Sonia detailed the allegations in a series of social media posts, in what became widely known as the “cheesecake” scandal.
Both Bongani and Matthew later addressed the controversy. Bongani said she had been subjected to considerable online backlash and maintained that there had been “so many mis-truths” surrounding the scandal. She also said the experience ultimately made their relationship stronger.
The pair eventually went public with their relationship, with Bongani sharing pictures of herself and Matthew together in January 2024. By then, both had divorced their former spouses.
Couple expecting their first child together
Bongani and Matthew are now preparing to welcome their first child together.
The couple announced the pregnancy in September 2026, sharing a picture of three pairs of trainers representing the two parents and their baby. Bongani also shared images showing her growing baby bump.
The baby news comes as Bongani enters another major chapter of her life — taking the reins of Atana while continuing to build her life with Matthew.
With her extensive experience in engineering and infrastructure, Bongani now steps into the CEO role at a significant point in Atana’s development, with a mandate to strengthen the business and drive its next phase of growth across South Africa and the continent.
Also see: Matthew Booth and Bongani Mthombeni announce pregnancy
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