Unlocking the Power of Branding in Uganda’s Boardrooms
On April 25, 2025, Uganda’s brightest marketing minds converged at the iconic Serena Hotel for a deeply insightful edition of the Uganda Marketers Society (UMS) CMO Breakfast. Themed "The Leadership Leap: Positioning Yourself for the Boardroom," this event was not just another routine gathering; it was a catalyst for transformation.
A New Era of Leadership
Under the dynamic moderation of Remmie Kisakye, CEO of Majestic Brands, attendees were challenged to redefine their understanding of leadership and reconsider the vital role marketers play in the boardroom. With a lineup that included CMOs, CEOs, and senior executives, the event set the stage for an enlightening dialogue about the transition marketers must make from operatives to decision-makers.
“Leadership isn’t about waiting to be invited—it’s about preparing, showing up, and confidently claiming your space. The boardroom isn’t for the timid; it’s for the intentional,” insisted Kisakye.
Insight from Influential Leaders
The panel discussion featured powerful insights from Goretti Masadde, CEO of the Uganda Institute of Banking and Financial Services, and Hassan Saleh, Managing Director of Multichoice Uganda. Both leaders offered raw, heartfelt narratives from their own leadership journeys that resonated deeply with the audience.
Navigating Corporate Seas
Goretti Masadde’s story is one of resilience and breaking barriers. She recounted her experiences as one of the few female leaders at Uganda Breweries Limited, where she managed teams composed mainly of men.
“I was often told I didn’t fit the mold—too young, too female, too everything. Yet, I continued to show up, armed with results that spoke louder than any stereotype,” she reflected.
Masadde’s journey emphasizes a crucial truth: “You don’t stumble into leadership; you build towards it with clarity, courage, and character.”
Boldness in Decision-Making
Hassan Saleh, on the other hand, shared a contrasting approach marked by strategic risk-taking. He candidly recalled the difficult choices he made in his career, often opting for moves that seemed unpopular at the time.
“I’ve taken downward moves to move forward,” Saleh explained. “Early on, people thought I was crazy, but I was building a foundation for my future leadership ambitions.”
He highlighted the importance of pushing beyond comfort zones, noting how an experience with the Africa Mobility Programme had proved pivotal in his career trajectory.
“It wasn’t glamorous, but I knew I was playing the long game—and it paid off.”
The Shift from Doers to Drivers
A central theme emerged: marketers must evolve from being ‘doers’ to becoming ‘drivers’ of corporate strategy. Kisakye articulated this notion emphatically, stating:
“Marketing is not a back-office function. It is the engine of growth. If we don’t see ourselves as leaders driving business outcomes, no one else will.”
Personal Branding: Your Seat at the Table
The breakfast event also provoked profound reflections on personal branding and executive presence. Masadde offered compelling advice:
“We often wait for someone to set a place for us at the table. Instead, build your own table or at least come with your own chair.”
Kisakye added that one’s presentation is also critical for making the right impression, stressing the importance of authenticity and a close circle of supporters.
“Your appearance matters. Stay true to yourself,” she urged attendees.
Embracing a Bold Future
As the event unfolded, Saleh reinforced the importance of innovation and courage, declaring:
“The future belongs to those who are bold enough to reimagine their role. Africa needs more experts at the table—not waiting for validation, but actively contributing value.”
In a heartfelt closing, Charity Asiimwe Kamusiime, president of the Uganda Marketers Society, emphasized the significance of community and personal connections:
“I am who I am today because I stand on the shoulders of many who paved the way before me. Every voice here matters—you are not just a participant; you are a force. Together, we are rewriting the narrative of marketing in Uganda.”
Conclusion: A Transformative Experience
The 2025 UMS CMO Breakfast was more than just a morning filled with ideas—it was a pivotal moment of transformation. It underscored that Uganda’s marketing leaders are not merely custodians of brands; they are contenders for seats in the boardroom.
This event marked a decisive shift in the narrative of marketing, inspiring attendees to take bold strides not just in personal branding but in redefining their value in the business landscape. Let this gathering serve as a call to action for all marketers in Uganda: be bold, be proactive, and claim your space at the top.
By adopting these principles and strategies, you too can join the ranks of influential marketers ready to make formidable impacts in the corporate world.
