Kenya Airways has recently made changes in its executive team with key appointments aimed at steering the company toward sustained growth and greater operational efficiency. Hellen Mwariri Mathuka has stepped into the role of Chief Strategy and Innovation Officer. Mathuka, who has been with the airline since 2009, was previously the Chief Finance Officer and is now set to guide KQ’s strategic vision at a crucial juncture for the company.
These changes come as the airline celebrates a remarkable financial turnaround, posting its first half-year profit in a decade. Kenya Airways reported a net profit of Ksh. 513 million for the six months ending in June 2024, a stark contrast to the Ksh. 21 billion loss incurred during the same period last year. This impressive 102% increase underscores the effectiveness of KQ’s ongoing restructuring efforts.
Mathuka’s new role will see her at the helm of several pivotal areas, including strategy, innovation, sustainability, corporate communications, and network planning. Her extensive background in audit, revenue management, and finance has well-equipped her to lead the airline through its strategic turnaround plan, Project Kifaru 2.0.
Ensuring continuity within the finance department, Mary Mwenga has been named Acting Chief Finance Officer. Mwenga brings over 20 years of experience to the table, having previously overseen Business Performance and Reporting at Kenya Airways.
Allan Kilavuka, KQ Group Managing Director and CEO, expressed optimism about the future, saying, “By optimizing our internal structures and focusing on strategic areas, Kenya Airways is now better equipped to respond to growing market demands, embrace new opportunities, and sustain our trajectory of growth.”
Kilavuka also pointed out that the company’s renewed focus on financial restructuring and cost discipline is laying the groundwork for continued success in the competitive world of aviation.