L-R: The new Maad McCann board members; Adris Kamuli, Joseph Lubaale, Annette Sebba, Marx Rukundo and Michael Kafeero
Maad McCann has announced the appointment of Joseph A. Lubaaale Bagabo as the new Board Chairman and Marx Rukundo as a new Board Member. These appointments were confirmed at the recent shareholders’ meeting and mark a significant milestone in Maad McCann’s commitment to strong corporate governance, as they are the first independent directors to join the board.
Joseph Bagabo, who brings over twenty years of experience in finance, human capital management, and business strategy, steps into the role as Chairman, succeeding Daniel Ligyalingi. Bagabo’s stewardship is expected to further propel Maad McCann’s growth and continued innovation.
A veteran in the financial sector, Joseph Bagabo has held senior leadership roles at prominent institutions such as Stanbic Bank Uganda, Barclays Bank Uganda (now Absa), and the Uganda Institute of Banking and Financial Services. His proven track record in shaping Uganda’s financial landscape, along with his recent appointment as Board Chair of Eeze Money FinTech, underscores his deep expertise and forward-thinking leadership.
In accepting the position, Bagabo expressed his gratitude, “It is truly an honor to serve as Board Chairman at Maad McCann. Reaching 16 years of operation is a significant milestone for the Agency, especially as only 5% of Ugandan companies make it beyond the 10-year mark. This speaks to the resilience and foresight of the founding members.”
Adding to this, outgoing Chairman Daniel Ligyalingi reflected on his time at the helm: “Leading Maad McCann for 16 years has been an incredible journey. What stands out most is our deliberate focus on hiring young, talented professionals and empowering them to take the company into the future. This focus on succession planning has positioned the Agency to thrive for many years to come. With Joseph taking the reins, I am confident that the Agency will continue its upward trajectory, leaning into the future with innovative leadership while benefiting from the global McCann affiliation.”
Joining the Board alongside Bagabo is Marx Rukundo, an accomplished leader in commercial management and business development. Currently the General Manager at BRAC Social Business Enterprise Uganda, Rukundo has an extensive career that spans senior roles in companies like Ipsos Uganda, where he served as Country Manager, and Orange Uganda. His expertise in strategic planning, financial management, and market research will be a valuable addition to the Board.
The continuity of current directors Annette Sebba, Micheal Kafeero, and Adris Kamuli will ensure board stability, blending their experience with the fresh perspectives of the new independent directors. This strong mix of leadership will strengthen the agency’s strategic focus and ability to meet the evolving demands of the industry.
As Maad McCann expands its influence both locally and regionally, these appointments reflect a strategic focus on leadership continuity and innovation, ensuring the agency remains competitive while delivering innovative solutions for its clients.
