Onome Amuge
Rockwell Automation has strengthened its African leadership team with the appointment of Rodrick Naidoo as cluster director for English-speaking Africa, as the company sharpens its ambition to expand its footprint in some of the continent’s fastest-growing industrial markets.
Naidoo, who will be based in Johannesburg, will oversee sales operations in South Africa, Nigeria, Angola, Ghana, Botswana, Zimbabwe, Namibia and Zambia. The US-listed group, which describes itself as the world’s largest company dedicated to industrial automation and digital transformation, said the move reflects its commitment to long-term growth across Africa.
For Rockwell, the appointment comes at a moment when African economies are pushing to modernise infrastructure, upgrade manufacturing capacity, and expand energy and mining output. Industrial digitalisation is seen as key to improving efficiency and attracting investment.
“English-speaking Africa is a strategic region for us, with tremendous opportunities across energy, mining, manufacturing, and infrastructure,” said Ediz Eren, regional vice president for the Middle East, Türkiye and Africa. He added that Rockwell’s portfolio of digital technologies positions it well to support African industry as it transitions towards more automated, sustainable operations.
Naidoo brings more than 18 years of experience in sales and leadership across oil and gas, mining and process solutions. He previously held senior roles at Rockwell Automation before a stint as commercial director at eXess Africa. His return marks a renewed focus on building customer partnerships in sectors that underpin much of Africa’s growth story.
As cluster director, he will be tasked with driving strategic growth and embedding what the company calls “sales discipline” across the region. He will also be responsible for strengthening ties with African customers and partners as industries seek to digitise operations and improve resilience in volatile market conditions.
“I am honoured to return to Rockwell Automation and take on this exciting leadership opportunity. It’s a privilege to work alongside such passionate and talented teams. I look forward to collaborating with our customers, partners and internal stakeholders to deliver innovative solutions and accelerate growth across Africa,” Naidoo said.
Analysts say Rockwell’s focus on Africa is in line with broader trends, as global industrial groups increasingly look to emerging markets to offset slower growth in developed economies. The company stated that it has already invested heavily in solutions designed to optimise production and improve sustainability. This, it considers areas of growing importance as African governments seek to meet rising demand while tackling environmental challenges.
