She stepped into the legal profession at a time when the ink had barely dried on South Africa’s first democratic constitution. Now, decades later, she brings that same trailblazing spirit to our executive team. Meet Anna Isaac, our new Chief of Legal, Risk and Compliance – a seasoned legal mind, proud mother and champion for diversity.

In a candid video interview, Anna opens up about what drives her, the critical role of ethics in shaping sustainable business, the power of representation in leadership, and how her life journey, from courtrooms to corporate corridors, has been guided by purpose, resilience and a deep commitment to doing what’s right.

  • A legacy of firsts and purpose

“I was the first female General Counsel of one of the top four banks in South Africa,” Anna says. “It was not easy to get there in a male-dominated arena, especially in legal,” From the start, she saw law not just as a profession but as a vehicle for equity, truth and justice. 

  • Why representation matters

Beyond the legal frameworks, Anna is passionate about the visible and invisible impact of diversity in leadership. “It’s really important for us to have representation at all levels in an organisation. Females bring a different perspective.” Many countries are now requiring a certain quota for women at the board level, and there’s good reason for that: research shows that it leads to better decision-making, she explains.

  • More than a title

Outside of work, Anna is a mother, a mentor and a fierce advocate for young professionals navigating industries she once had to break into alone. Her leadership style? Bold, but human. And always purpose-led.

“I believe as a leader you need to be brave and courageous and make bold decisions,” she says. “I believe that you must touch the hearts and minds of people. As a leader, you need to make sure that you lead from the front.”

Anna brings a voice of wisdom, empathy and clarity to our leadership team – one forged through lived experience and professional excellence. Watch her full video interview to hear more about her journey, her vision for the future of compliance, and why she believes now is the time to lead with both head and heart.