CEO-Ready: Uganda’s Rising Business Leaders to Watch in the Next 5 Years

Uganda no longer lacks CEO-ready talent; it is overflowing with it.

From the commanding floors of leading banks and insurance firms, to the boardrooms of fast-moving consumer goods companies, oil and gas multinationals, telecom giants, regulators, and investment firms, there is a new generation of Ugandan professionals.

They are strategically placed, thoroughly equipped, and quietly making their way to the corner office.

These are individuals already entrusted with large budgets, wide teams, and critical mandates.

Some are executive directors, overseeing operations, strategy, risk, and people in top-tier institutions.

Others are chief financial officers, managing billions in assets, liquidity, and compliance in Uganda’s most regulated industries.

Several are chief legal officers, company secretaries, and governance champions.

They are already navigating the delicate intersection between law, leadership, and boardroom politics.

Their profiles showcase a diverse range of talent. From banking and insurance to energy, law, aviation, telecom, manufacturing, agriculture, and Fintech.

Their rise demonstrates that Uganda is not short of capable, confident, and corporate-ready leadership.

It has simply been a matter of opportunity meeting preparation.

From functional experts to strategic leaders

One of the most remarkable patterns emerging from this cohort is how functional mastery has become a foundation for strategic leadership.

Many of these individuals began in highly technical roles, such as accountants, lawyers, engineers, marketers, auditors, or analysts.

But over time, they have evolved into well-rounded leaders.

They are taking on complex mandates, driving digital transformation, managing crises, stewarding institutional change, and shaping new growth strategies.

Whether in finance, strategy, regulatory affairs, investment, or operations, each individual profiled has demonstrated both competence and character.

They have earned the trust of boards, regulators, shareholders, and staff.

That trust is the single most valuable currency for any CEO in today’s volatile business environment.

What’s also clear is that these leaders are already performing at or near the CEO level.

Their ability to lead transformation, deliver results, manage risk, mentor teams, and navigate uncertainty suggests that the only thing separating them from the top job is timing, and in some cases, organizational opportunity.

A new generation that’s globally trained, locally rooted

Another striking insight is the caliber of global academic and professional qualifications many of these leaders possess.

They are alumni of institutions like Harvard Business School, Oxford Brookes, Edinburgh Business School, Wharton, London Business School, University of Cape Town, Strathmore, and Manchester Business School.

Their certifications are equally world-class: FCCA, CPA, CFA, CIM, ICF, LLMs, PhDs, and MBAs in strategy, finance, leadership, and governance.

But what makes them exceptional is not just where they studied — it’s how they have applied those insights back home.

This is a generation that understands both the nuance of Ugandan markets and the discipline of global performance standards.

They know how to manage local dynamics, from informal markets to government stakeholders, while also aligning with international boards, investors, and ESG frameworks.

It is this combination of global literacy and local fluency that positions them uniquely.

They have built the capacity to lead institutions not just in Uganda, but across East Africa and beyond.

Women are quietly but powerfully rising

More than 40% of the professionals on this list are women, a powerful indicator that Uganda’s corporate landscape is no longer a boys’ club.

These are executive directors, COOs, CFOs, heads of legal, directors of strategy, regulators, investment leads, and boardroom anchors.

Many of them are already running institutions in acting capacities, or are in clear succession lines to take over within the next few years.

From finance and governance to FMCG, ESG, and digital transformation, women leaders are making their mark.

And this is not through tokenism but through consistent delivery, values-based leadership, and strong emotional intelligence.

Their rise is not accidental. It is the result of intentional leadership development, mentorship, and visibility, supported by ecosystems like the CEO Apprenticeship Programme, League of East African Directors, Journey to the Boardroom, and the International Coaching Federation.

A pipeline fed by excellence, not entitlement

Perhaps the most compelling observation about this list is that these professionals are not simply the result of luck or patronage. They have earned their place.

• Many began humbly, as tellers, analysts, accountants, legal officers, or junior marketers.
• Others came through elite graduate programmes, but had to prove themselves through resilience, discipline, and value addition.
• Most have rotated across functions and even countries, gaining depth and breadth that allows them to lead beyond silos.
• Several have served during institutional mergers, major strategy overhauls, digital shifts, and regulatory transitions, and emerged stronger.

They bring to leadership not just ambition, but credibility, institutional memory, and a clear sense of stewardship.

What comes next

This list is not exhaustive, but it is emblematic. It represents a generational shift in Uganda’s corporate leadership story.

It says to boards, shareholders, policymakers, and HR leaders:

The next generation of CEOs is already here. They’re not waiting to be discovered; they’re already delivering.

The challenge now is not finding CEO-ready Ugandans — it’s recognizing them, empowering them, and giving them the platform to lead.

For headhunters and board search committees, this is your shortlist.

For young professionals, this is your mirror and motivation.

For Uganda’s private sector, this is your reassurance — the future is in steady, capable hands.

CEO East Africa Magazine is proud to present “40 Emerging Corporate Leaders”, who are not just on the rise, but are already carrying the weight of leadership.

They are preparing to ascend to the top. This is a tribute to their journey so far, and a signpost of where Uganda’s corporate future is headed.

Gilbert Kamuntu

Chief commercial officer

Uganda National Oil Company

His experience in economic modelling, business analysis, and commercial negotiations across the petroleum value chain places him in a prime position.

He is a key consideration for a chief executive officer role in or outside the oil and gas sector.

He has 15 years of experience, almost all of which is within the oil and gas sector.

His experience spans upstream production to refining, crude oil pipelines, and oil terminals.

The current Uganda National Oil Company chief commercial officer began his career with Shell as a refinery economist in the UK.

He spent several years in Shell’s strategy, mergers, and acquisitions department.

He also worked for Tullow Oil on the Uganda and Kenya upstream developments in London, Nairobi, and Kampala.

He holds a Bachelor’s in Mechanical Engineering from Nottingham University, a Master’s in Science in Energy Studies, and a Master’s in Business Administration from the University of British Columbia.

He has also trained in project and infrastructure finance, corporate strategy, and leadership.

Agnes Namyalo Mayanja

Executive director

KCB

She has previously worked in operations, credit, and strategy, which are key positions in banking.

She currently works as the KCB executive director.

Before joining KCB, she worked as a chief risk officer at dfcu, where she was responsible for risk management, operations, and strategies.

She has over 22 years of experience in the financial services sector, 15 of which have been at a senior level.

Thus, she holds considerable experience for a CEO or managing director role in or outside the banking sector.

She holds a double Master’s in Business Administration from Edinburgh Business School, Heriot-Watt, and Makerere University, and a Bachelor’s in Mass Communication.

She also holds Diplomas in Risk Management and Credit and has completed several executive courses in leadership from Strathmore..

Mbabazi K Emejeit

Executive director

Diamond Trust Bank

She has a mix of two strategic work experiences and knowledge in legal and credit management.

When put together with her strategic position as DTB executive director, she becomes an asset in banking.

She is one in a pool position among Uganda’s next business leaders in or outside banking.

She was appointed DTB executive director in February 2021, before which she had worked as head of legal and company secretary.

She has previously worked as a company secretary at UBA Banka, legal and credit officer at Stanbic Bank, and an Associate at Magezi, Ibale & Co Advocates.

She also has over 10 years of experience in banking and is an advocate of the High Court.

She holds a Master’s of Laws from the University of Cape Town, a Bachelor of Laws from Makerere University, and a practicing certificate from the Law Development Centre.

Eunice Muheirwe

Executive director and country head of finance

Nile Breweries Limited

She is the Executive Director and Country Head of Finance at Nile Breweries Limited.

She occupies a strategic role that anchors numerous reporting lines.

She thus understands how and where the company earns and spends money.

Her only downside is a lack of actual and deeper experience in sales, one of Nile Breweries’ primary drivers.

But her shortcomings in sales are compensated by her 20 years of experience in the fast-moving consumer goods industry, strong financial acumen, and solid leadership skills.

She has previously worked for Coca-Cola Beverages, Rwenzori Bottling Company, and World Vision International.

She is a certified accountant and an old girl of Gayaza High School.

Her approach to challenges focuses on collaboration, teamwork, and cost management.

Kate Kiiza  

Executive director & chief corporate & institutional banking officer

dfcu Bank

She is the executive director and chief corporate & institutional banking officer at dfcu Bank.

She joined the bank in 2015 as the chief financial officer.

She has previously worked in senior finance roles, including at Shell Uganda (now Vivo Energy) and United Bank for Africa.

A Fellow of ACCA (UK) and member of ICPAU, she is a strong financial leader and strategic thinker.

She combines finance expertise, corporate banking leadership, and cross-sector experience, and she understands dfcu inside out.

She drives key revenue areas, making her a solid candidate for a CEO or managing director role in or outside banking.

Andrew Bugembe

Chief financial officer

MTN

He is an accomplished telecommunications finance executive with over 20 years of experience across five countries.

He is currently MTN’s CFO, and the profitability strategy focuses on service revenue growth and margin expansion.

He has held several other senior roles within MTN, including general manager, financial planning and analysis, and general manager, financial operations.

He is a Fellow of the Association of Chartered Certified Accountants (UK) and holds a Master of Commerce from the University of Wollongong, Australia.

He possesses strong financial insight and stakeholder management, which positions him for a CEO role in or outside the telecom sector.

Sam Mwogeza

Executive director and head of personal and private banking

Stanbic

He is the executive director and head of personal and private banking at Stanbic.

He has over 20 years of experience across Uganda, Zambia, Tanzania, and DR Congo.

He has previously worked as CFO, executive director, and global CFO at VisionFund. He holds an MBA, is a Harvard alumnus, and a Fellow of ACCA.

He has led core bank areas—finance, retail, and operations—showing clear strategy, strong execution, and people development skills.

He also coaches leaders and serves on boards.

With such a wide array and trusted leadership, he is well-placed for a CEO role in or outside banking.

Gerald Paul Kasaato

Deputy managing director

NSSF

He is the NSSF deputy managing director and has previously served as chief investment officer, overseeing the Fund’s $3.8b portfolio.

With deep experience in investment, he has also previously held senior roles at National Housing and NIC.

He also serves on the Serena Hotels and the Yield Fund boards.

He holds a CFA Charter, UK Chartered Accountant, three finance degrees (Oxford Brookes, Exeter, London South Bank), and is a Harvard Business School alumnus.

With his unmatched investment expertise, institutional memory, and global finance training, he is well-positioned to lead NSSF or any other business in the managing director role.

His edge lies in capital stewardship and fund growth.

Stevens Mwanje

Chief financial officer

NSSF

He is the chief financial officer at NSSF, Uganda’s largest company by assets.

His experience and proven track record in finance, customer experience, risk management, business planning, and building high-performance teams place him in the leadership queue both within and outside NSSF.

He is a Fellow of ACCA and CPA, with an MBA from Edinburgh Business School and executive training from Wharton, GIBS, and Strathmore.

He also holds certifications in ESG, leadership, risk, and strategy.

With board experience at Quality Chemical Industries Limited, he holds strong governance and financial oversight.

A possible weakness may be limited exposure in frontline regulatory or political navigation.

But his skill set and board experience bridge that gap well.

Ronald Makata

Chief finance and value management officer

Stanbic Bank

He is the Stanbic Bank chief finance and value management officer, the country’s largest lender by assets and deposits.

He joined Stanbic over a decade ago as a financial reporting manager, rising from a teller at Barclays in 2004.

Over the years, he has worked as a financial controller, product development and innovation lead, and treasury and capital management head.

He holds an MBA from Edinburgh Business School and a Bachelor of Commerce from Makerere University.

He is a Fellow of ACCA and a member of the Institute of Certified Public Accountants of Uganda.

His deep knowledge, broad finance experience, and track record of leading innovation position him well for senior leadership. His journey from teller to executive shows resilience and a strong grasp of banking operations.

A potential area for growth is expanding experience in strategic leadership beyond finance, such as client-facing roles and business development.

Michael Segwaya

Executive director and chief finance officer

Absa

He is the Absa executive director and chief financial officer, a role he has held since 2012. 

His experience positions him well for a CEO or managing director role in or outside banking.

He is currently the executive director and chief finance officer at Absa.

He has previously worked as a financial controller at Barclays (now Absa), head of financial reporting, finance officer, clearing officer, and banking officer at the defunct Nile Bank.

He holds a Master’s in Business Administration from Oxford Brookes University and a Bachelor’s of Commerce in Accounting.

He is also a fellow of ACCA and a member of the Institute of Certified Public Accountants of Uganda.

Claver Serumaga

Executive director in charge of commercial banking

Equity Bank

He was recently appointed Equity Bank executive director in charge of commercial banking.

This elevation positions him well for prime roles in or outside the larger Equity Group.

With more than 19 years of pan African banking experience, he has a strong track record of turnaround leadership.

His most recent role was managing director of NCBA Tanzania, where he lifted the bank out of decades of losses.

He has previously worked as a deputy managing director of Bank of Africa Kenya and chief digital officer at Bank of Africa Group.

He is an accomplished banker who has built diverse and inclusive teams in banking.

He is a Fellow of the Chartered Institute of Marketing, UK, and holds an MBA in Executive Management from the Graduate School of Business, University of Cape Town.

Sam Ntulume

Executive director

I&M Bank

He had been primed to lead I&M Uganda after navigating the bank through a rebranding in 2021.

However, having been skipped, he retained the executive director role, which he continues to hold to date.

He has more than 28 years of experience, 16 of which have been in the financial services sector. 

His role at I&M positions him as a rising star and leader of the future in or outside banking.

He has held several executive positions and was most recently the executive director, finance and strategy at NCBA Bank.

He has also previously worked as managing director and business amalgamation at Commercial Bank of Africa. 

He has also worked at Stanbic Bank in both Uganda and Kenya, Total, and Uganda Revenue Authority.

He holds an MBA from East & Southern Africa Management Institute, Arusha, and a Diploma in Business Studies from the National College of Business Studies (now MUBS).

Andrew Kabera

Executive director and chief digital financial services officer

PostBank

He is an astute banker with a strong bias in financial digital solutions.

He is currently the executive director and chief digital financial services officer at PostBank.

He has been key in PostBank’s digital innovations, such as Wendi Mobile Wallet, used in the disbursement of PDM cash.

Before joining PostBank, he had worked as a chief operating officer at dfcu and held various leadership roles at Stanchart.

Holds a Bachelor’s in Economics from Makerere University and a Master of Business Administration from Uganda Martyrs University.

His positioning in an era where companies are digitizing places him in a pool position for a managing director or CEO role in or outside banking.  

Frances Namatovu

Executive director

Quality Chemical Industries Limited

She is a shining female executive in the pharmaceutical sector.

She was appointed executive director of Quality Chemical Industries Limited on 16 April 2025.

She is a seasoned pharmacist with over a decade of experience in regulatory affairs, pharmacovigilance, and strategic business development.

She is currently the head of regulatory affairs and pharmacovigilance at QCIL.

She has been the company’s qualified person for pharmacovigilance since 2020.

Her regulatory affairs experience spans over 11 years across Southern and West African States, and the World Health Organisation.

She holds a Master of Science in Drug Development with Biobusiness from Aberdeen University, Scotland, UK, and a Bachelor of Pharmacy from Manipal University, Karnataka, India.

She is also a member of the QCIL board, which strengthens her leadership in one of the most regulated sectors.

Paul Muganwa

Executive director and head of corporate and investment banking

Stanbic Bank

He is one of the rising stars at Stanbic, having been appointed executive director and head of corporate and investment banking. 

He has close to two decades of banking experience, having worked in both Uganda and South Africa.

His leadership has been pivotal in driving growth markets at Stanbic over the last three years, including providing strategic direction.

He holds a Bachelor of Commerce in Economics and Finance from the University of KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa, among other qualifications.

He has a robust skill set that includes mergers and acquisitions, investment banking, capital markets, syndications, IPO, and sovereign debt.

Andrew Makumbi

Chief financial officer

Jubilee Allianz General Insurance Company

He is a rising executive with immense potential in the insurance industry.

He is currently the chief financial officer at Jubilee Allianz General Insurance Company.

He has more than 17 years of professional experience, 10 of which have been in the insurance sector.

He has extensive experience in financial reporting and corporate accounting, finance operations, and general management.

He has previously worked at AIG Uganda, Kenya, and South Africa.

He also has external audit and advisory experience gained while working with Price Waterhouse Coopers (PWC) in Uganda.

He holds a Bachelor’s in Mathematics from Makerere University and is a Fellow of ACCA, UK, and a member of CPA.

Joseph Kiwanuka Balikuddembe

Executive director

Centenary Bank

He is the current executive director of Centenary Bank. He has more than 21 years of banking experience, having started his career in 1999 as a banking officer. 

He has previously held senior roles at United Bank for Africa, where he was the executive director and Absa, where he held several senior executive roles, including head of business banking, retail and business banking, head of trade finance, corporate and investment banking, relationship manager – multinationals and large corporates, corporate and investment banking.

He has also worked with Stanbic as a business manager in personal and business banking.

He holds an MBA from Edinburgh Business School, Heriot-Watt University, and a Bachelor of Science in Agriculture from Makerere University.

Clovice Bright Irumba

Director of exploration at the

Petroleum Authority of Uganda

He is a petroleum geoscientist with specialised training and practical knowledge in petroleum law and policy.

He currently works as the director of exploration at the Petroleum Authority of Uganda.

For over 20 years, he has worked in the oil and gas sector, having started at the Ministry of Energy.

He is one of the architects of Uganda’s oil and gas legal framework.

He is thus knowledgeable in legal drafting and development analysis of petroleum policy and strategy.

Having participated in the Albertine and Graben field studies during the establishment of the Petroleum Authority of Uganda and policy and legislation development, he is a valuable asset to Uganda’s energy sector.

He holds a Master’s in Petroleum Law and Policy from the University of Dundee (UK) and a Master of Science in Petroleum Geoscience from the University of Newcastle, UK.

He also holds a Diploma in Petroleum Development and Operations from Stavanger, Norway, and various certificates in Petroleum Geoscience, Law, and Economics from the UK, US, Norway, and China.

Vincent Ssematimba

Chief Finance Officer

Jubilee Insurance

He is currently the Chief Finance Officer at Jubilee Insurance, a position he has been holding since 2021.

He has previously worked as the chief accountant at Jubilee Life, financial accountant at dfcu, and at Bank of Africa as a reconciliation accountant.

He holds an advanced diploma in accounting and business from ACCA, a bachelor’s in Statistics from Makerere University, and is an accounting affiliate from the Institution of Certified Public Accountants of Uganda.

He has excelled in financial resource management and regulatory compliance.

He has demonstrated leadership in directing high-performing teams, achieving a 50% cost-to-income ratio, and enhancing financial forecasting accuracy through advanced budgeting techniques and strategic analysis.

Peace Ayebazibwe Kabunga 

Executive director and chief business officer

Housing Finance Bank

She holds a strategic role at Housing Finance Bank as executive director and chief business officer.

Her experience in mortgage finance, SME lending, and customer strategy places her in the succession plan for a top executive role in or outside banking.  

She has over 15 years of experience and has previously worked in senior roles at Barclays (now Absa) and Stanbic.

She holds a Master’s in Financial Management from Amity University, a Bachelor’s in Statistics from Makerere University, and is an ACCA qualified accountant.

Her blend of strategic insight, operational experience, and a commitment to inclusive finance makes her one of the emerging leaders in Uganda’s corporate scene.

Kelvin Musana

Executive director and chief financial officer

Standard Chartered Bank

He is the Standard Chartered Bank executive director and chief financial officer.

His position makes him one of the most strategically placed rising professionals with the potential to take on a managing director role in or outside banking.

As CFO of a globally connected bank, he plays a central role in financial governance, capital strategy, and regulatory compliance — all critical in a high-stakes, fast-evolving financial landscape.

Before joining Standard Chartered, Musana worked at Barclays Bank (now Absa).

His experience covers financial reporting, business planning, risk management, and cross-border finance operations.

He holds a Bachelor’s in Statistics from Makerere University and is a Fellow of ACCA, in addition to being a member of ICPAU.

Charles Katongole Mbidde

Executive director and head of corporate and investment banking

Standard Chartered

As the Standard Chartered executive director and head of corporate and investment banking, Mbidde is strategically placed for a managing director or chief executive officer in or outside banking.

He has led teams in some of the core banking areas, including high-value client relationships, corporate finance, and strategic investment.

He also leads engagements with some of the bank’s large local and multinational clients, which makes him a key driver of the bank’s profitability and long-term positioning.

He has nearly two decades of experience in banking and corporate finance, complex transactions, managing risk, and fostering strategic partnerships in energy, manufacturing, and infrastructure.

He holds a Master of Business Administration from Heriot-Watt University (UK) and a Bachelor’s in Social Sciences from Makerere University.

His proven ability to lead large client portfolios and navigate complex investment environments makes him a natural candidate for top CEO roles.

Rita Faith Nansasi

Acting chief executive officer

Uganda Retirement Benefits Regulatory Authority

She is currently the acting chief executive officer of Uganda Retirement Benefits Regulatory Authority.

She sits at the forefront of Uganda’s pension and retirement benefits sector, steering policy oversight, regulatory compliance, and sector-wide reform.

She has close to two decades of experience in financial regulation, risk management, and institutional supervision.

She has previously worked as director of supervision and market conduct at UBRA, where she played a critical role in strengthening sector compliance and expanding coverage of retirement savings among informal workers.

She holds a Master’s in Economic Policy Management and a Bachelor’s in Statistics from Makerere University.

She is also a certified financial analyst with additional training in pensions regulation and actuarial oversight.

With her technical expertise, regulatory insight, and experience in institutional leadership, she is well-positioned to either permanently lead UBRA or transition into top executive roles in the broader pension or financial services ecosystem.

Artur Edeet

Chief financial officer

UAP Old Mutual

He works as the chief financial officer at UAP Old Mutual.

He oversees financial strategy, risk management, and regulatory compliance for one of Uganda’s leading insurance and asset management firms.

His role is central to ensuring financial stability and supporting the company’s growth ambitions in a competitive market.

With over 15 years of experience in finance and accounting, he has worked across various sectors, including banking, insurance, and investment management.

He is recognized for his strong expertise in financial planning, budgeting, and corporate governance.

He holds a Bachelor’s in Commerce from Makerere University and is a certified chartered accountant.

His analytical skills and leadership of financial operations position him well for future senior executive roles within or outside the financial services sector.

Olive Lumonya

Deputy director general

Civil Aviation Authority

She is a distinguished leader with over 25 years of experience in governance, leadership, and strategic marketing across private, government, and NGO sectors.

As the deputy director general of Civil Aviation Authority, she provides strategic oversight, ensuring compliance with international standards.

She is strategically positioned for a top CEO role in or outside the wider aviation sector. 

She has previously worked as the country director of SOS Children’s Villages Uganda, National Social Security Fund, and Nile Breweries.

She is a chartered marketer with a CIM certificate from the UK, a certified balanced scorecard champion, and an Africa Board Fellow.

She holds an MBA from ESAMI, a Bachelor’s in Mass Communication from Makerere University, and certifications in aviation, social security, and governance from institutions like Singapore Aviation Academy and London Business School.

Sylvia Jagwe Owachi

Acting managing director

Cairo Bank

She is a seasoned banker with over 25 years of leadership. She currently works as the Cairo Bank’s acting managing director.

Before this, she was the bank’s executive director, a job she had held since July 2020.

She has previously overseen Cairo Bank’s Business, Treasury, IT, Marketing, PR, and Communications, which prepared her well for a managing director or CEO role.

She has twice acted as a Cairo Bank managing director, which could have offered her sufficient knowledge of the operations of the bank.

She has previously been head of corporate banking at Guaranty Trust Bank, and head of commodity traders and agribusiness at Standard Chartered Bank, among other roles.

She holds an MBA from Edinburgh Business School, specialising in credit risk, financial management, and strategic planning, and a Bachelor’s of Commerce in Finance from Makerere University.

Getrude Wamala Karugaba

Group chief legal officer

Equity Group Holdings

She is a highly accomplished business executive, commercial lawyer, and governance leader.

She has over 20 years of experience across financial services, corporate law, and board leadership.

She currently works as Equity Group’s chief legal officer, overseeing legal and strategic governance across banking, insurance, Fintech, and social impact entities in over six countries.

She is strategically positioned for a managing director role in either the wider Equity Group or within or outside banking.

She has previously worked as a partner and head of corporate mergers and acquisitions at DLA Piper Africa (Uganda) and head of legal and company secretary at Stanbic.

She holds a Master of Laws from the University of Cambridge, a Bachelor of Laws from Makerere University, and a Diploma from the Law Development Centre.

John Baptist Kaweesi

Head of consumer banking and mortgages

Housing Finance Bank

He is a results-driven business leader with over 17 years of extensive experience in banking.

He currently works as the head of consumer banking and mortgages at Housing Finance Bank and has previously worked at Stanbic Bank as head of digital and e-commerce and head of alternate channels.

He has a wealth of expertise across diverse areas, including retail and business banking, digital banking (end-to-end management), product development, credit structuring and analysis, risk and compliance, budgeting, and strategic planning.

His position and expertise place him among Uganda’s rising executives. 

He holds a Bachelor of Science in Statistics and Mathematics from Makerere University and is currently pursuing a Master of Business Administration from the University of East London.

Francesca Nakaggwa Kakooza

Director of legal services and secretary

Insurance Regulatory Authority

She is a distinguished legal and governance expert with over 14 years of experience.

As director of legal services and secretary at Insurance Regulatory Authority, she provides strategic legal and governance oversight, ensuring regulatory compliance.

She has previously worked as company secretary and chief legal advisor at Shelter Afrique and Uganda Development Bank, respectively, and senior manager of legal and board affairs at Housing Finance Bank.

She is a faculty member of the Chartered Governance Institute UK & Ireland and holds an MBA from Uganda Management Institute.

Marion Muyobo

Total Energies EP Uganda

Internal audit manager

She is a seasoned sustainability practitioner and strategic leader with over 25 years of experience in marketing, internal audit, and corporate governance.

She has worked since 2023 as the internal audit manager at Total Energies EP Uganda, which positions her as a key figure in the oil and gas sector.

She has previously worked as head of social affairs and head of methods, regulatory affairs, and stakeholder engagement at Total E&P Uganda and director of marketing at Uganda Breweries.

She combines two key fields – legal and marketing – that are important in organizational leadership.

She holds an MBA from the University of South Wales, an Advanced Management Programme from Strathmore Business School, and an Internal Audit Practitioner certification from the Institute of Internal Auditors.

Rita Kabatunzi

Company Secretary

Stanbic Bank Uganda

She is a governance expert and chartered governance professional with over 20 years of experience. 

As Company Secretary at Stanbic Bank Uganda (2019-present), she champions robust corporate governance, ensuring compliance and strategic alignment.

She has previously worked as a company secretary at Vision Group, gaining experience in two diverse sectors: banking and media.

She has also worked as an Adjunct Executive Fellow at Strathmore Business School since September 2024, training leaders in governance and leadership.

She holds a PhD in Business Administration (Leadership) from Walden University and an MBA from the University of Leicester.

Dustan Ian Rukare

Global financial operations director

UpEnergy

He is a seasoned international financial director with over 20 years of experience.

He has worked since 2021 as the global financial operations director at UpEnergy, providing strategic financial leadership and ensuring robust investment decisions. 

He has previously worked as a commercial finance director at Coca-Cola Company, regional finance manager for Coca-Cola’s East Africa, Gas Natural Fenosa, and Imprint as the finance, HR, and procurement lead for major projects like the 250MW Bujagali Hydro Electric Power Plant.

He holds an MBA from the University of Manchester and certifications from the Wharton School, including Corporate Governance and the CFO: Becoming a Strategic Partner.

His experience and leadership position him as a key candidate for the top job in the soft drinks, beverage, and energy sectors.

Alan Muguma

East African Breweries Limited

Business integrity director

He has over 25 years of experience in risk management, compliance, and financial advisory.

He has been working as the business integrity director at East African Breweries Limited (EABL) since April 2019.

He has previously worked as a commercial finance manager and supply chain finance manager at Uganda Breweries and group audit and risk manager at EABL.

He holds an MBA from Edinburgh Business School and a Bachelor’s in Economics and Philosophy from Makerere University.

His experience roles position him well for top jobs within and outside East Africa.

He is a seasoned Partner at Sebalu & Lule Advocates (S&L Advocates), with over 17 years of experience.

He specializes in insolvency, business restructuring, debt recovery, asset tracing, and recovery litigation and has previously advised major financial institutions and corporate entities, including Standard Chartered Bank and GroFin Africa Fund.

He holds a Postgraduate Diploma in International Insolvency Law from Nottingham Trent University and a Postgraduate Diploma in Legal Practice from the Law Development Centre.

His experience and effective risk management, and compliance make him an emerging leader in and outside the legal profession.

Ann Marie Mwaka Sabano

Head of Investments

aBi – Agricultural Business Initiative

She is a seasoned professional with over 15 years of expertise in agricultural finance, blended finance, and ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) impact investing.

As head of investments at aBi – Agricultural Business Initiative since December 2021, she drives strategic investment leadership, overseeing a robust portfolio of traditional and green credit lines and guarantees.

Her work focuses on optimizing portfolio performance for sustainability and impact, managing market research for innovative financial products, and ensuring risk and compliance oversight.

This places her well for leadership roles in ESG, banking, and credit management, or any other field.

She is a certified expert in ESG and Impact Investing from the Frankfurt School of Finance and Management, holds an MBA in Project Management, and has a Bachelor of Science in Agriculture from Makerere University.

Beatrice Lugalambi

General manager for business development and marketing

Centenary Bank

She is a seasoned banker and corporate leader with over 15 years of senior management experience spanning marketing, communications, business development, and strategic banking operations.

She currently works as the general manager, corporate communications and marketing at Centenary Bank, where she leads brand strategy, public relations, customer experience, product development, and corporate social responsibility.

Previously, she has worked as general manager of business development and marketing, where she oversaw corporate, SME, high-net-worth, and retail banking segments.

In both roles, she has been a key pillar in Centenary’s remarkable transformation – from mid-sized to Uganda’s largest indigenous bank.

She has helped shape and execute the bank’s growth strategy, customer advocacy agenda, and inclusive banking model.

She began her career in corporate banking at Barclays Bank (now Absa).  

She holds a Master of Business Administration from ESAMI, a Postgraduate Diploma in Management from the Uganda Management Institute, and a Bachelor of Arts degree from Makerere University.

Ruth Doreen Mutebe

Board chairperson

UGAFODE

She is a chartered director, certified public accountant, and purpose-driven governance leader.

She has over 20 years of experience in internal audit, finance, and board service across banking, insurance, energy, and public institutions.

She has previously worked with Umeme, Barclays (Absa), Finance Trust Bank, and Excel Insurance.

She currently serves as chairperson of UGAFODE Microfinance, non-executive director at Britam, and immediate past chairperson of the African Federation of Institutes of Internal Auditors.  

She is also a Global Committee Member with the Institute of Internal Auditors and the 2024 ICPAU Accountant of the Year.

With boardroom experience, global exposure, and cross-sector insights, she is now ripe for executive leadership roles, within or outside Uganda.

Denis Kahindi

Airtel Uganda

Director Home Broadband Business

He is a seasoned business executive with extensive experience in telecommunications and corporate governance.

He is currently the director of Airtel Home Broadband Business.

He leads an emerging sector that is expected to change how Ugandans live.

He is responsible for driving strategic sales plans, market expansion, and regulatory compliance.

His leadership focuses on nurturing client relationships, mentoring teams, and aligning business objectives with regional goals, ensuring profitability and brand strength.

He has previously worked as the chief executive officer of Liquid Intelligent Technologies.

He holds an MBA from the United States International University – Africa and certifications in Sales Management from Mercuri International Business School.

Agnes Tibayeita Isharaza

Corporation Secretary & Chief Legal Officer

National Social Security Fund (NSSF) Uganda

She is a seasoned lawyer and governance leader with more than two decades of experience in board and corporate legal practice.

Since April 2019, she has served as Corporation Secretary and Chief Legal Officer at the National Social Security Fund (NSSF), steering the Fund’s legal, regulatory compliance, and governance functions with precision and integrity.

Her career spans leadership roles in banking, leasing/asset finance, development finance, capital markets, oil and gas, and the pension sector.

She has deep specialization in corporate governance, regulatory compliance, credit and loan structuring, contract negotiation, and strategic legal advisory.

Before joining NSSF, she spent over a decade at dfcu Bank, where she rose to head of legal and company secretary.

She played a central role in risk management, corporate transactions, and board advisory.

She holds an Executive MBA from Eastern and Southern African Management Institute (ESAMI), a postgraduate diploma in Legal Practice from the Law Development Centre, and a Bachelor of Laws from Makerere University.

Her professional excellence has been widely recognized. In 2017, she was listed on The Legal 500’s GC Power List – Africa and has twice been nominated by the Uganda Law Society as a Leading Female Corporate Lawyer.

Her expertise and leadership have also influenced legislative reviews and reforms across multiple sectors.

With her unmatched blend of governance acumen, legal expertise, and cross-sector experience, she stands out as a CEO-ready leader, fully equipped to lead complex organizations in Uganda and beyond over the next five years.

Florence Bamwine

Strategic Programmes Lead

dfcu Bank

She is a seasoned strategic leader and finance executive. She previously worked as Strategic Programmes Lead at dfcu Bank.

Her work involved collaborating across departments to drive performance, enhance operational efficiency, and shape future-facing initiatives that support sustainable growth.

This gave her exceptional experience that positions her well for a much higher role at the level of chief executive or managing director in or outside the banking sector.

She is a board member of the League of East African Directors and has previously worked with the Mulwana Group of Companies and Hima Cement.

She has been key in shaping strategic priorities for companies she has worked for, strengthening governance, and mentoring emerging professionals by blending a balanced understanding of risk management, customer-centricity, and innovation.

This positions her as an emerging leader.

She holds a Master’s in Human Resource Management from the University of West London and a Bachelor of Arts in Social Sciences from Makerere University.