The CEO of Ethiopian Airlines, Africa’s largest carrier, is resigning from his position.
Tewolde Gebremariam has led the airline over an 11 year period, during which it has seen significant growth.
Ethiopian Airlines said he was taking early retirement because of health issues, explaining that he had been getting medical treatment in the US for the last six months.
The airline confirmed the board had accepted his request for early retirement and said a successor would be announced shortly.
Tewolde led the company through the coronavirus pandemic without bailouts by pivoting to cargo, keeping the company profitable and cash positive.
Tewolde also helped the airline recover from the crash three years ago of flight 302, a Boeing 737 MAX bound for Kenya, killing all 157 passengers and crew.
Tewolde’s career saw him win a number of accolades including “African CEO of the Year” and “Best African Business Leader”.
