Mr Matjila holds a BA degree in Law from the University of Lesotho, a LLB degree from Wits University as well as the Management Advanced Programme Diploma from Harvard University.

Mr Matjila was an active member of the Civic Movement and has held various leadership positions in the African National Congress. He was instrumental in the formation of the Greater Johannesburg Transitional Metropolitan Council during 1994. Mr Matjila was the first Chairperson of the South African Local Government Association (SALGA). He also served as Chairperson of the Commonwealth Local Government Forum (CLGF) and as an Executive Member of the International Union of Local Authorities.

Mr Matjila has extensive experience within the economic regulation environment. He has been the Chairperson of the National Electricity Regulator since 2001. As Chairperson he has proven himself to be an insightful strategic thinker, diligent, meticulous, a visionary and a bridge builder. These qualities have been invaluable to the continued success of the Board executing its mandate.

With his fine legal and strategic mind and years of experience, he has demonstrated an excellent grasp of the issues facing the electricity industry and has contributed immensely in assisting the Board to regulate the industry efficiently and effectively.

Mr Collin Matjila currently serves as the Chief Executive Officer of Kopano Ke Matla Investment Company (Pty) Ltd, (South Africa) the investment company of the Congress of South African Trade Unions (COSATU).

On 1 October 2005, Mr Matjila was appointed by the Minister of Minerals and Energy as Chairperson of the National Energy Regulator (NERSA).