Alex Okosi Becomes Managing Director for Google in Africa

By Modupe Gbadeyanka

A seasoned media, entertainment, and technology leader, Mr Alex Okosi, has been appointed as the Managing Director for Google in Africa.

The appointment of Mr Okosi was announced on Tuesday, September 5, 2023, in a statement issued by the renowned search engine platform.

He would be expected to lead the operations of Google on the continent, which boasts nearly two billion people.

Google has been operating in Africa for over a decade and has offices in Ghana, Kenya, Nigeria and South Africa. The company’s products and services are used by millions of people in Africa every day.

Before his latest job, Mr Okosi was the Managing Director for YouTube in EMEA Emerging Markets, playing a pivotal role in steering the platform’s growth and expansion across Africa, the Middle East, and Turkey.

Prior to joining YouTube, a subsidiary of Google, he held the position of Executive Vice President and Managing Director of Viacom International Media Networks Africa and BET International.

He will now direct Google’s operations in Africa, including programs to help businesses and economies on the continent to grow, as well as expanding access and providing tools to help the next billion users get more from the web.

“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,” the new appointee said.

“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,” Mr Okosi added.

Also commenting, the Vice President for EMEA Emerging Markets at Google, Mr Meir Brand, said, “Alex is a proven leader with a wealth of experience in the media and technology industries. He has a deep understanding of African countries and a passion for using technology to empower people and businesses.”