The Board of Directors of Uganda Airlines has initiated the recruitment process for a new Chief Executive Officer (CEO), following President Yoweri Museveni’s decision not to renew the contract of incumbent CEO Jennifer Bamuturaki.
Bamuturaki has served as CEO of the national carrier since 2022. According to an internal communication reportedly sent to staff, her position is set to be advertised, although it remains unclear when she will officially exit office.
“The Board will advertise the position of Chief Executive Officer shortly, and you are all encouraged to apply if you meet the required qualifications. The job description and application form will be published on the website,” Bamuturaki reportedly said in the communication.
The development comes amid ongoing investigations into alleged abuse of office, embezzlement of funds, and false accounting involving officials of Uganda Airlines. The investigations are being jointly conducted by the Criminal Investigations Directorate (CID) and the State House Anti-Corruption Unit and relate to several financial transactions undertaken by the national carrier.
Revived in 2019, Uganda Airlines is a state-owned national carrier currently operating a fleet of seven aircraft across 17 regional and international destinations.
The airline plays a strategic role in enhancing national connectivity, supporting economic development, promoting tourism and trade, and projecting Uganda’s national brand within the African aviation market and beyond.
Earlier today, the Board of Directors advertised the position, seeking to recruit a visionary and results-oriented Chief Executive Officer to provide strategic leadership and oversee the sustainable growth and performance of the airline.
The CEO will be responsible for leading and driving the overall business success of the airline, including devising and executing its corporate strategy.
Key responsibilities include strategy formulation and implementation, compliance with regulatory frameworks, financial management and reporting, commercial management, communication, people management, revenue generation, budget control, and overall operational oversight.
According to the Board, the ideal candidate must possess a bachelor’s degree in Administration, Business Administration, Aviation Management, Engineering, Finance, Law, or another business-related field. A master’s degree in any of these disciplines is required, while training in aviation-related fields will be an added advantage.
“The suitable candidate must have at least ten years of aviation experience at senior management or executive committee level, with proven experience working closely with a Board of Directors in a corporate, public sector, or regulated environment,” the Board stated.
Applicants must demonstrate a strong understanding of airline economics and network planning, aviation legal and regulatory frameworks, safety and risk management systems, financial management, and operational performance improvement.
The Board further noted that candidates must have demonstrable success as heads of key functions, with a proven track record of delivering against key goals and overcoming significant challenges.
“High ethical standards, integrity, sound judgment, commitment to public accountability, and experience managing a large workforce at various levels are essential,” the Board said.
Candidates must not be older than 60 years. The Board added that applicants from outside the aviation industry with comparable experience from other sectors may also apply, provided they can demonstrate the ability to execute the role effectively.
