South African Airways Group Chief Executive Officer Prof John Lamola has resigned, effective end of April 2026. The Board, chaired by Transport Minister Barbara Creecy as shareholder representative, accepted the resignation following a recent meeting.
Air Chefs CEO Matshela Seshibe takes over as Acting Group CEO immediately, with recruitment for a permanent replacement to start shortly. This leadership shift comes amid resignations of three non-executive board members for varying reasons.
Lamola joined SAA in July 2021 as non-executive director and board chairperson, becoming Group CEO in May 2022. He led the airline out of business rescue, expanding the fleet from five to 19 aircraft and routes from six to 17 destinations.
The departures raise concerns over governance and stability at SAA, an airline still recovering from financial distress. Industry observers note potential operational disruptions during the transition, as the carrier navigates route growth and fleet management amid scrutiny over financial reporting and political influences.