Alex Okosi Appointed Managing Director at Google to Drive Africa’s $6bn Tech Ecosystem
Nigerian media and tech executive, Alex Okosi, has been appointed as the new Managing Director, Africa, at Google. Okosi, with a formidable track record in the tech industry, takes on the influential role having previously served as the Managing Director, Emerging Markets, YouTube EMEA for three years.
In addition to overseeing Google’s operations and vision in Africa, Okosi will be advancing the global technology giant’s presence and impact on the continent while identifying the unique challenges and opportunities that the region presents.
“I am excited at the prospect of leading Google’s team in Africa and the opportunity to be an even closer part of this diverse and dynamic region, which is so close to my heart,” says Okosi in a statement released by Google.
“I’m a firm believer in the potential for technology and, in particular, the internet to improve people’s lives and to help individuals and businesses in Africa to thrive,” adds Okosi.
Alex Okosi’s appointment marks a pivotal moment in the digital transformation currently being witnessed across 54 countries on the continent. Having established himself as a pacemaker in the field, Okosi brings to Google a wealth of experience and a deep understanding of the African market. His over two decades of building successful global businesses and brands uniquely position him to play a key role in addressing the evolving needs of African technology users and markets.
Africa’s tech startup ecosystem, mostly dominated by young people, is fast-growing. The ecosystem has experienced a 40% surge in the number of tech startups, with investments skyrocketing from $1.3 billion in 2020 to over $3 billion in 2022. Future growth is also projected to reach $712 billion by the year 2050.
In 2021, Google announced its plans to support Africa’s digital transformation by investing $1 billion in the continent over the next few years through the provision of access to fast and affordable internet and startup funds. The company noted it would commit $50 million to investing in startups through the Africa Investment Fund.
In a post on his LinkedIn page, the Nigerian-born Okosi affirms his quest to harness the youthful energy and tech talents on the continent for a continued digital renaissance. As a known advocate for issues relating to youth empowerment and nurturing on the continent, Alex Okosi is poised to further champion initiatives that promote inclusivity, digital literacy, economic growth and innovation among Africa’s young and diverse population.
A mission-driven leader, Okosi spent 22 years at ViacomCBS Networks in the US, Europe and Africa before taking on the Managing Director role at YouTube in 2020. At YouTube, he spearheaded the successful roll-out of the YouTube Shorts feature and the YouTube Kids app in the EMEA Emerging Markets. He also played a key role in setting up YouTube’s $100 million multi-year Black Voices Fund in EMEA, a project dedicated to identifying and promoting the growth of black creators and music artists on the platform.
