Viljoen goes early
By all accounts the resignation of chief executive Andre Viljoen from South African Airways was an amicable separation.
But with just under two years left on his contract, and an orderly succession in the works, the country's media has inevitably been searching for a deeper meaning to his early departure. Viljoen is staying until September to hand over the reins to deputy chief executive Oyama Mabandla.
Much has been made in South Africa over the airline's large fuel hedging losses as contributing to Viljoen's departure, but internal personality issues between Viljoen and members of the management team are thought to be contributory factors.
SAA's board is searching for a replacement, but Oyama is the current favourite, especially if he performs well as acting chief during what is effectively a probation period.
When he was made Viljoen's deputy in late 2003 the intention was to begin grooming the airline's head of strategy and network planning for the top job. The move may have come earlier than expected.
Although the hedging losses have created something of a cloud over Viljoen's management, overall SAA was well-run and a "shining light" among African carriers, says a source close to the carrier.
MARK PILLING LONDON
Source: Airline Business
