CMC Networks appoints ex-Google exec, Mahesh Jaishankar as Managing Director to lead AI push in Africa

CMC Networks, a pan-African networking provider owned by center3, has appointed Mahesh Jaishankar as Managing Director. The move comes as the company looks to deepen its use of AI in managing connectivity across 62 markets in Africa and the Middle East.

Jaishankar replaces Marisa Trisolino, who stepped down in April 2025. With more than 25 years in digital infrastructure, including leadership roles at Google, du, Arc, and datamena, he helped build one of the Middle East’s largest hubs for hyperscalers and carriers.

Since center3 acquired CMC in June 2024, the company has leaned on Artificial Intelligence for IT Operations (AIOps) to scale service delivery across Africa. Its network footprint spans 51 countries on the continent, positioning it as a bridge between African enterprises, global carriers, and hyperscalers.

“Mahesh brings over 25 years of experience in building and scaling advanced digital infrastructure businesses,” said Fahad Alhajeri, CEO of center3 and chairman of CMC Networks. “His deep expertise with hyperscalers, carriers, and enterprises… makes him ideally suited to lead CMC Networks into its next phase of growth.”

The appointment comes at a time when Africa’s internet traffic is projected to triple by 2030, according to the ITU, driven by cloud adoption, fintech services, and mobile broadband. Competitors such as Liquid Intelligent Technologies, MTN GlobalConnect, and Orange Wholesale are also investing heavily in AI-driven networks, highlighting how automation is becoming central to handling scale and reliability across emerging markets.

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Commenting on his new role, Jaishankar said:

“I’m honoured to take on the role of Managing Director at CMC Networks at such a pivotal moment for AI, innovation, and the growth of Africa’s digital economies. Together with our customers and partners, we will accelerate growth, unlock new opportunities, and deliver intelligent, scalable connectivity solutions that Africa and the Middle East need to thrive in the digital era.”

CMC Networks provides services ranging from dedicated internet and SD-WAN to satellite and cloud connectivity. The company says AI will be central to reducing downtime, improving traffic management, and meeting growing demand for reliable networks in underserved regions.