Shipping and Freight Resource extends its warmest congratulations to Adv Michelle Phillips, Group Chief Executive of Transnet, on being named KZN Top Business Woman for 2026..
Accepting the award, Michelle said she was deeply honoured by the recognition and explained that she does what she does because she loves it.. She acknowledged the more than 50,000 Transnet employees as part of this achievement.
The award comes during a demanding period for Transnet and South Africa’s wider logistics system.. Michelle has carried the responsibility of leading the organisation through its operational recovery, infrastructure constraints, sector reforms, and closer engagement with customers and private industry..
Michelle has spent more than 20 years within Transnet, working across legal, operational, and executive roles before being appointed Group Chief Executive in March 2024.. Her experience includes leading Transnet Port Terminals and Transnet Pipelines, giving her a practical understanding of the people, assets, and operating realities behind the organisation..
I recently had the opportunity to speak with Michelle for SFR’s Executive Insights series.. Throughout the discussion, her confidence in Transnet’s people came through clearly..
She spoke about equipment reliability, maintenance, operational discipline, customer engagement, and the work required to reduce congestion across the port system.. She also stressed the need for South Africa to recognise progress while continuing to deal honestly with the work that remains..
That balance matters.. Running Transnet involves thousands of daily decisions, many of them far removed from public view.. Trains must move, vessels must be worked, pipelines must operate safely, equipment must remain available, and customers must be kept informed when pressure builds..
Leadership in an organisation of that size is measured through the work carried out across the system every day..
While this recognition is a proud personal achievement for Michelle, it is also a welcome moment for the wider Transnet team whose work supports South Africa’s economy and trade..
Congratulations, Michelle.. SFR wishes you continued strength and success as you lead Transnet through the next stage of its recovery and growth..
