Manoj Murali takes up the mantle from VG Somasekhar as new Airtel Uganda MD
Telecom giant Airtel Uganda has today, Wednesday, October 28, 2020 announced the
appointment of Manoj Murali as its new Managing Director – MD,taking up the mantle from
V.G. Somasekhar who is moving to India where he will continue to be associated with the
Bharti Airtel Group.
While announcing the appointment, Raghunath Mandava the CEO Airtel Africa said Manoj is experienced enough to take Airtel to greater heights.
“Manoj has handled different roles and worked across geographies in India, the Corporate
Office and the International operations of Sri Lanka, Seychelles and Channel Islands. His most
recent assignment was as the Chief Executive Officer, Tamil Nadu and Kerala. Prior to this he
has held other roles including; Chief Operating (Executive) Officer in Rajasthan and Business
Head (Chief Operating Officer) in Andhra Pradesh, amongst other positions within the system,”
he said.
Prior to joining Bharti Airtel, Manoj worked with Crompton Greaves Limited where he was
responsible for managing and expanding the Profit Centre operations of Karnataka state for the
Lighting Business Group.
“I accept this responsibility with optimism, determination and confidence,” Manoj said while
commenting on his appointment.
“I will continue to build on the momentum Airtel is resonating so strongly in the market. I am
excited to be in Uganda and look forward to disruptive and transformative approaches in the
coming years.”
Manoj holds a Masters of Business Administration from the Symbiosis Institute of Business
Management, Pune and a Bachelor of Engineering from the University of Poona, Pune.
Commenting on his move, Somasekhar was thankful for the opportunity to serve and contribute
to the growth of the telecommunication sector and its impact on the socio-economic
development of Uganda.
“It’s been a transformational journey since 2010. I have seen Airtel Uganda emerge as a leader,
admired and respected digital brand among consumers and all stakeholders. I express my
deepest gratitude for the support I have received from the Board, Management and Staff of
Airtel Uganda, Uganda Communications Commission, Ministries and Government of Uganda,”
he said.