For the last six years, chartered accountant Priscillah Mabelane served as the chief financial officer of BP Southern Africa adding to her already impressive resume. 

British Petroleum announced Monday, Aug. 28 that Mabelane would continue working for the company as its new CEO. The historic appointment makes her the first black woman in South Africa's oil industry to serve as CEO of a major company like BP.  

“Given her proven track record in her previous executive roles, we are confident that Priscillah will be a strong leader for our business, especially as we continue to explore new areas of growth and development,” BPSA chairperson, Thandi Orleyn said in a statement.

“Priscillah’s appointment reinforces BPSA’s pioneering role and strength of commitment to cultivating a diverse and inclusive workforce that will breed creativity and ensure we meet, even exceed customer expectations.”

Mabelane's 20-year career has also included stints at Airports Company of South Africa (ACSA) as CFO, Ernst & Young where she served as a tax director, and at Eskom where she held various roles in finance, tax and general management.

Her tenure as CEO began Friday, Sept. 1. Keep shining!!!