Edward Kieswetter

Edward Kieswetter is the commissioner of the South African Revenue Service (SARS), the country's tax authority. He is a South African tax and business executive who assumed the role in May 2019. Kieswetter was appointed to lead the organisation through a period of institutional rebuilding following years of governance challenges and declining tax collection performance. Before joining SARS, he held senior positions in both the public and private sectors, including roles at Alexander Forbes and Old Mutual. He also served as a board member of several organisations and brought extensive experience in financial services and public administration to the commissioner role. As SARS commissioner, Kieswetter has championed the modernisation of tax administration through digital transformation, data analytics and emerging technologies including artificial intelligence and machine learning. He has prioritised combating tax evasion, addressing the illicit economy and improving taxpayer compliance while rebuilding public trust in the revenue service. Kieswetter's tenure has been marked by efforts to enhance operational efficiency, strengthen enforcement capabilities and restore SARS's institutional integrity. He regularly features in South African business coverage for his commentary on tax policy, revenue collection performance and the agency's strategic initiatives. His leadership is seen as central to the government's efforts to stabilise public finances and broaden the tax base in a challenging economic environment.