SAA CEO Prof John Lamola resigns
The Board of South African Airways has announced the resignation its CEO, Professor John Lamola.
In a statement released on Friday, both the Board and Transport Minister Barbara Creecy confirmed they have accepted his departure, which takes effect at the end of April.
Lamola took the helm of the national carrier in May 2022, leading the airline through its post-business rescue recovery and the volatile aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic.
While the reasons for his sudden exit remain unclear, Lamola’s tenure was not without friction.
His appointment was previously overshadowed by allegations of improper interference involving Deputy President Paul Mashatile and Minister Creecy.
However, a subsequent investigation by the Public Protector found those claims to be unsubstantiated.
To ensure stability, the board has appointed Matshela Seshibe, the current CEO of SAA subsidiary Air Chefs, as the Acting Group CEO.
The airline says the recruitment process for a permanent successor will begin shortly.