South African Airways names Zuks Ramasia as interim CEO

June 10, 2019: South African Airways (SAA) has appointed Zuks Ramasia as the interim CEO, after its CEO Vuyani Jarana resigned on June 2. The announcement was made at the airline's head office in Johannesburg to the media.

Ramasia, who is currently general manager for operations at the carrier, is said to be an experienced executive with an extensive aviation background. She will be supported by executive committee members including Peter Davies, the airline's chief restructuring officer, and Deon Fredericks, its chief financial officer.

A statement said, "The board has commenced a search, domestically and globally, for a permanent CEO with appropriate experience and expertise to stabilise the company and to oversee the implementation of the long-term turnaround strategy."

The board has accepted Jarana's request not to serve his full notice and that there was a mutual agreement for him to leave office sometime next week. His notice period extends up to the end of August.

Adam Voss has been appointed as the new CEO of South African Airways Technical (SAAT) and the appointment of a permanent CEO for Mango is being finalised.

"The board and executive management of SAA are fully committed to the turnaround strategy," said SAA chairman JB Magwaza.

"The board acknowledges the critical financial circumstances confronting the company and is in ongoing discussions with the [South African] Department of Public Enterprises, National Treasury, and financial institutions with respect to putting in place a financial structure appropriate to supporting the long-term sustainability of the company," a statement from the airline said.

"The board and executive management met this morning with the labour unions to provide assurances that the turnaround strategy remains on track and will continue to involve all key stakeholders in rolling out the implementation of the strategy," it added.

"In conclusion, the board is committed to transparency and engaging with all stakeholders regarding stabilising SAA and the implementation of the long-term strategy," said Magwaza.