South African Airways CEO Prof. John Lamola Resigns After Four Years at the Helm
South African Airways (SAA) has announced the resignation of Group Chief Executive Officer Professor John Lamola, effective end of April 2026, following a Board meeting and acceptance by Minister of Transport Barbara Creecy in her capacity as shareholder representative. Lamola first joined SAA in July 2021 as Non-Executive Director and Board Chairperson before assuming the GCEO role in May 2022, taking the helm as the airline emerged from business rescue amid the lingering effects of the COVID-19 pandemic. During his tenure, SAA's fleet grew from five to 19 aircraft and its route network expanded from six to 17 destinations, including the reintroduction of international routes to São Paulo and Perth.
Mr Matshela Seshibe, CEO of SAA subsidiary Air Chefs, has been appointed Acting GCEO while a permanent recruitment process gets under way. The Board also noted the recent resignation of three Board members, with Minister Creecy expressing confidence that the remaining 10 members retain the expertise to fulfil their fiduciary duties. SAA continues to face external headwinds common to the global aviation industry, including rising fuel costs linked to geopolitical developments in the Middle East. Board Chairperson Sedzani Mudau credited Lamola with leaving "a lasting and positive legacy" on the organisation.
Source: African Pilot