The upcoming King V code, launched by the Institute of Directors South Africa, is expected to refine rather than drastically change corporate technology governance frameworks. Siva Padayachee of fintech firm e4 notes that King V will build on previous versions, with a particular focus on Artificial Intelligence governance, including clearer rules to protect client data and promote use of private AI models. The code will also emphasize managing reputational risk and responsible technology adoption. e4 supports these principles through an internal oversight committee to foster a culture of accountability and ethical innovation.
As the Institute of Directors South Africa (IoDSA) prepares to launch King V at the end of October, Siva Padayachee, Head: GRC & Business Assurance at fintech specialist e4, says the new code is expected to strengthen rather than radically reshape corporate governance in South Africa.
For over two decades, e4 has partnered with leading financial institutions and enterprises to deliver secure, compliant, and innovative digital solutions. As digital transformation accelerates, the company has remained a strong advocate for responsible technology adoption, balancing innovation with robust governance frameworks that protect client trust and reputation.
“From a technology governance perspective, I anticipate much will stay the same,” says Padayachee. “The King Code and its guidelines have matured significantly over the years, making them easier to manage and consume. We saw a huge leap between the first and third iterations, while the move from King III to King IV was far smoother. I’m working on the assumption that King V won’t be a dramatic departure from its predecessor.”
However, Padayachee believes King V will take a more specific stance on governance in the era of Artificial Intelligence (AI). “While South Africans love a buzzword, we’ve seen increasing interest in the use of AI – and that means we urgently need clearer guardrails,” he says. “These are particularly important when it comes to contractual obligations and maintaining trusted client relationships.”
He adds that responsible use of client data is a critical consideration. “If e4 is entrusted with a client’s information, it is our duty to ensure that this data is not exposed to the internet or shared with free, publicly available AI tools. Doing so could not only compromise security but also damage the relationship of trust we’ve built with our clients. I expect King V may recommend broader use of closed or private AI solutions, rather than open models, as a key governance safeguard. While at e4 we do this already, there are many who don’t.”
Beyond AI, Padayachee believes King V will place greater emphasis on reputational risk. “As technology providers, we must be seen as competent and responsible users of technology. The way we adopt and integrate new tools must be mindful, measured and purposeful,” he explains.
To embed this philosophy internally, e4 has established an oversight committee focused on promoting the responsible use of technology across the group. “We’re on a long journey, but these cultural shifts need to start happening sooner rather than later,” Padayachee notes. “Through this committee, we’re ensuring that standards are defined, governance is embedded, and that a shared culture of accountability and responsible innovation takes root.”
The committee meets twice annually, with the next session scheduled for March 2026. “I’m excited to see how far we’ve progressed by then,” he says. “Governance and innovation are not opposing forces – they’re partners in ensuring sustainable, ethical progress.” ENDS.
About e4
e4 is a leading partner in digital transformation, dedicated to accelerating our clients' digital journeys with tailored, forward-thinking solutions. Trusted by blue-chip organisations both locally and internationally, e4 specialises in transforming complex, process-driven environments into streamlined digital ecosystems, enabling clients to achieve a strategic advantage in a fast-paced digital landscape. With capabilities across digital transformation, technology integration, process automation, data management, compliance, and user experience design, we are committed to understanding what matters most to our clients, both today and in the future. Our client-centric approach and collaborative mindset make us more than a service provider; we’re a partner in achieving meaningful, sustainable growth.
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