LSF CEO Announcement
The Localisation Support Fund (LSF) is pleased to announce the appointment of Irshaad Kathrada as its new Chief Executive Officer, effective immediately. Kathrada brings a wealth of experience in economic development, industrial policy, and investment strategy—positioning him to accelerate the LSF mandate of impactful and inclusive localisation and industrialisation across South Africa.
Kathrada’s career spans both public and private sectors, with a consistent focus on fostering sustainable growth in key industries like manufacturing, energy, and mining. He previously served as a Special Advisor to the Minister of Trade, Industry and Competition, where he contributed to shaping South Africa's industrial policy to support local businesses and job creation. He also spent nearly a decade at JPMorgan in the United States and the UK, serving as an Executive Director overseeing North American credit risk and strategy in the Chief Investment Office. Kathrada holds a Master’s in Sustainability, Enterprise and Environment from the University of Oxford and a Bachelor’s in Business Science from the University of Cape Town.
"I am deeply honoured to lead the LSF at this pivotal moment in its journey. South Africa's manufacturing sector is vital to driving our country’s economic growth, and the LSF is uniquely positioned to help industry strengthen the commercial case for a globally competitive local manufacturing base. I’m excited to build on the Fund’s progress and unlock opportunities that enable our local industries to thrive in both domestic and international markets," said Irshaad Kathrada.
The LSF is entering a new phase focused on delivering practical solutions to unlock South Africa's industrial potential. Kathrada’s appointment reinforces the Fund’s commitment to strengthening South Africa’s localisation efforts by targeting industries where scalable projects can deliver broad economic impact. Structural reforms, energy sector improvements, supply chain resilience, and opportunities from the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) are creating a strong business case for local manufacturing. Additionally, the shift toward green industries presents opportunities for South Africa to lead in emerging sectors.
"We are excited to welcome Irshaad Kathrada as the new CEO of the Localisation Support Fund. With his diverse experience across government, entrepreneurship, and the private sector, he brings a well-rounded perspective to lead the Fund in advancing South Africa's industrial development. We are confident that under his leadership, the LSF will deliver real impact and support the re-industrialisation of South Africa. At the same time, on behalf of the board and the entire team, I would like to extend our deepest gratitude to Thami Moatshe for her exceptional leadership in building the foundation of the LSF. Her vision, dedication, and commitment have been instrumental in setting us on the path toward achieving our ambitious goals, and we are grateful for the lasting legacy she leaves behind," said Harald Harvey, Chair of the LSF Board.
The LSF remains committed to fostering sustainable economic growth by supporting scalable localisation projects that build industrial competitiveness and create opportunities for South African industry. Under Kathrada's leadership, the Fund will continue to prioritise transparency, accountability, and inclusive development in all its initiatives.
The LSF was established in 2021 as a non-profit company (NPC) and public benefit organisation (PBO), bringing together stakeholders across manufacturing value chains to accelerate and drive industrialisation within the South African economy. The LSF’s vision is to create a thriving, inclusive South African economy driven by robust and competitive local manufacturing industries serving both local and export markets. To support this vision, the LSF offers comprehensive services, including industry research, business case development, technical expertise, project execution, and connecting stakeholders to unlock growth opportunities.
To date, The LSF has actively supported various sectors, including critical infrastructure, renewable energy, and apparel manufacturing. This work includes studies to strengthen local manufacturing for the expanded transmission grid rollout, promote the localisation of renewable energy components and systems, and improve efficiency in apparel manufacturing—resulting in increased employment and output.
All reports are available on the LSF website: https://www.lsf-sa.co.za/reports and applications for support from LSF can be sourced from: https://www.lsf-sa.co.za/applytolsf
For media inquiries, please contact:
Ms Nokuphila Buthelezi
Localisation Support Fund
Tel (011-269-3736)
Email: info@LSF-SA.co.za