CMC Networks, Africa’s leading networking provider and a subsidiary of center3, has named Mahesh Jaishankar as its new Managing Director.

Jaishankar will spearhead the company’s strategy to expand AI-driven connectivity while leveraging its deep-rooted expertise across Africa and the Middle East. He succeeds Marisa Trisolino, who stepped down as CEO in April 2025.

With more than 25 years of experience in digital infrastructure, Jaishankar brings a strong track record in scaling regional and global platforms. He previously held an advisory role at Arthur D. Little, led strategic negotiations at Google, and was instrumental in launching and growing datamena into a premier regional connectivity hub during his tenure at du.

“Mahesh brings over two decades of experience in building and scaling advanced digital infrastructure businesses,” said Fahad Alhajeri, CEO of center3 and Chairman of CMC Networks.

“His expertise with hyperscalers, carriers, and enterprises makes him ideally suited to lead CMC into its next phase of growth. We are confident he will strengthen CMC’s leadership in delivering intelligent, AI-driven connectivity solutions across Africa and the Middle East.”

Since its acquisition by center3 in June 2024, CMC Networks has accelerated the adoption of Artificial Intelligence for IT Operations (AIOps), reinforcing its position as a pioneer in AI-driven connectivity across 62 markets in Africa and the Middle East, where it has operated for more than 35 years.

Commenting on his appointment, Jaishankar said:

“I’m honoured to take on this role at such a pivotal moment for AI, innovation, and Africa’s digital economies. CMC has an incredible heritage of delivering customer-focused solutions in some of the most complex markets in the world. Together with our partners, we will accelerate growth, unlock new opportunities, and deliver scalable connectivity solutions that empower Africa and the Middle East in the digital era.”

Jaishankar holds an engineering degree and an MBA. Alongside his corporate career, he has been an advocate for entrepreneurship and innovation as a charter member of TiE Dubai. His appointment reflects CMC Networks’ ambition to combine global expertise with regional insight in shaping the next generation of connectivity across Africa and the Middle East.