Johnson Idesoh

Pioneer
DISC Type : sdi

Group Chief Information and Technology Officer at Absa Group

City of Cape Town, Western Cape, South Africa

Overview

As Group CITO at Absa, Johnson is a technology executive with experience in finance and pharma. Drawing on his Harvard Business School education, he leads transformational change and innovation. He is described by colleagues as a "committed and professional leader" focused on delivering results.

In late 2023, Johnson was named "CIO of the Year" at the Africa Tech Festival Awards for his significant contributions to technology and innovation.

Personality Overview

Decisive But Friendly

Driven But Considerate

Friendly But Fast

They have the unique ability to win both love and respect from their team (or outsiders)  If they are convinced, they can become very strong champions for your product They combine a unique set of diverse traits where they are fast and friendly but can slow down to be thorough when needed

Topics They Care About

Digital Transformation
He leads Absa's digital strategy, which recently won a "Best Digital Transformation Project" award, and often speaks on creating customer value through technology.
AI in Banking
He accepted an award for Absa's "Best Use of AI" and is inspired by using artificial intelligence to solve real-world customer challenges.
Fostering Tech Talent
He shows a passion for nurturing talent through his active leadership and enthusiastic support for Absa's annual Technology Hackathon events for colleagues.

Media Appearances

Planning Innovation Accordingly: Q&A With Absa Group's Information Technology Chief Johnson Idesoh. Featured in GFMA (Global Financial Markets Association)

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Absa group CITO Johnson Idesoh reflects on his 2025 CIO of the Year recognition. Featured in CIO South Africa

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Absa Group CTO Johnson Idesoh is focusing on sustainable technology practices. Featured in CIO South Africa

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Work History

1-2023
Group Chief Information and Technology Officer at Absa Group
1-2021 - 12-2022
Executive Board Member at CABS
4-2018 - 12-2022
Chief Information Officer at Old Mutual Limited
10-2014 - 3-2018
Chief Technology Officer - Old Mutual Emerging Markets at Old Mutual Limited
4-2013 - 9-2014
COO Transformation and Shared Services Director at Aviva

Education

3-2022 - 5-2022
Advanced Management Programme from Harvard Business School
1998 - 2001
MBA from University of Strathclyde

More Information

Social Presence :

Prographics :

Exp : 25 Location : City of Cape Town, Western Cape, South Africa Job Level : Leadership Designation : Group Chief Information and Technology Officer at Absa Group
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Insights For Selling To Johnson

During A Call Or A Meeting

DO's

  • During followups, use calls or text if needed, they should be fine
  • Use phrases like ‘your decision will’, ‘you will impact’ etc.
  • Mostly stick to your standard pitch and qualifying script, but add some stories or anecdotes to it

DONT's

  • Don't lean very heavily into providing too much information, sharing whitepapers etc.
  • Avoid focusing only on the product or its ROI, keep building trust subtly
  • Don’t hesitate from asking questions or pushing them, but take a formal approach

When Cold Calling

When Writing An Email

While Negotiating & Closing

    The secret to closing fast with Johnson is

  • Nothing less than a strong combination of proof of results, relationship and high levels of professionalism is effective with them.
  • Will you ever get a clear answer from Johnson

  • They can say no while staying friendly, but can also be pursuaded to reconsider

Insights For Deal Planning

    How fast (or slow) will Johnson move?

  • They are generally fast movers and can take quick decisions
  • Can Johnson take some risk or not?

  • They have high risk-appetite but can get ahead of themselves once in a while. Observe carefully

You And Johnson

Personality Compatibility


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