Over 200 marketing leaders and practitioners (across 50 brands gathered at Serena hotel for the extraordinary edition of the CMO breakfast organized by Uganda Marketers Society, themed “The leadership leap: positioning yourself for the boardroom”

The keynote speaker – Gloria Evelyn Byamugisha (Group Chief HR Officer at Dangote Cement Plc), who has led HR strategies at major corporations across Africa, including but not limited to her roles as Group HR Director at Equity Group, Regional HR Head at Ecobank Nigeria and EAC, Group HR Director at Bharti Airtel among others, took the attendees on a journey through the evolving demands of leadership, offering wealth of experience and wisdom gleaned from her vast career.

“The leader today must be able to rethink, reinvent, and adapt to a world that is constantly shifting,” she said. “A great leader is one who not only connects with the team but also understands the complexities of the global landscape.” She emphasised the importance of preparing oneself for the boardroom, urging attendees to reflect on their leadership journey and positioning. “To succeed in the boardroom, you need depth. It is not just about knowing a little bit of everything but mastering your sphere of influence,” she explained. “Whether it’s marketing, operations, or strategy, understanding your ‘kingdom’ is crucial.”

The session also delved into the challenges of leadership in today’s volatile business environment. Byamugisha shared a personal anecdote about navigating complex business decisions during a crisis. “In one of the most trying times, my team and I had to manage business continuity amidst a global shutdown. The decisions we made had far-reaching implications, not only for the business but for the lives of thousands of people,” she said.

Byamugisha also highlighted the role of personal preparation in advancing one’s career. “Professional preparation goes beyond technical competence. It includes how you present yourself, communicate, and build relationships,” she stressed. “Trust is the cornerstone of any leadership role, and it must be cultivated through consistency and professionalism.”

“Legacy is not built on titles or accolades but on how you touch the lives of others. As you prepare for your future in the boardroom, remember that your impact will define your legacy,” she concluded. The event provided a platform for interactive discussions, where participants exchanged ideas on the changing dynamics of leadership, boardroom expectations, and the essential skills for future leaders. Byamugisha’s address was met with resounding applause, leaving attendees inspired and better equipped to take the next step in their leadership journeys.

Additionally, a seasoned panel rich with insight and experience featured Goretti Masadde (CEO Uganda Institute of Banking and Financial Services), and Hasan Saleh, managing director of Multichoice Uganda, moderated by the poised and dynamic Remmie Kisakye (CEO Majestic Brands).

Goretti’s story echoed with resilience. From managing multi-million-dollar projects to standing firm in spaces that once doubted her, Masadde underscored a key truth: “You don’t stumble into leadership, you build towards it, step by step, with clarity, courage, and character.” Saleh, on the other hand, took a different route in his leadership journey—one marked by bold, unpopular decisions. “I’ve had to take downward moves to move forward,” he shared. “Everyone thought I was crazy, but I knew what I was building. I wanted to lead big businesses, and for that, I needed breadth—crisis management, people leadership, and cross-border experience. I took the hard road.” He highlighted the importance of stretching beyond comfort zones, pointing to his selection for an Africa Mobility Programme in 2002. “It wasn’t glamorous. I was earning less than my peers. But I saw the long game—and it paid off.” In closing, Saleh added a powerful charge: “The future belongs to those who are bold enough to reimagine their role. We need more African experts at the table—not waiting for validation, but offering value.”

According to Kisakye, personal presentation is also key in striking the right impression. “Your appearance matters. Remember to be yourself and keep a close circle of friends.” “Build your personal brand the same way you build your other brands,” said Masadde. “As a marketer, what prepares you for the boardroom?”

One consistent message echoed from all speakers: marketers must move from being “doers” to being “drivers.” From campaign execution to corporate influence.

Charity Asiimwe Kamusiime, the Uganda Marketers Society President, emphasised the importance of personal connections and how they shape careers. “I am who I am today because I stand on the shoulders of so many who came before me. Thank you to every shoulder I’ve leaned on. I am not done yet. But everything I am — and everything this Society is — comes from the power of the market, the power of community,” she stated. She added, “We each carry a light. Let no one pass you without feeling its warmth. Let’s be bold in this transition. Let’s transform the lions of our industry — and roar with purpose. Every marketer here matters. You are not just a voice. You are a force. And together, we are rewriting the story of marketing in Uganda.”

The 2025 UMS CMO Breakfast wasn’t just a morning of ideas—it was a moment of transformation. A reset. A declaration that Uganda’s marketing leaders are not just brand stewards—they are boardroom contenders.