Coca-Cola Beverages Uganda (CCBU) has appointed Emmy Hashakimana as its new General Manager, bringing on board a leader with an extensive track record across Africa and the United Kingdom. He officially assumed the role on August 12.
Hashakimana joins from Uganda Breweries, where he most recently served as Commercial Director. His career began at Unilever before moving to Uganda Breweries in 2012 as Head of Customer Marketing. Over the next decade, he climbed the ranks, including a five-year stint in London with Diageo’s Global Innovation Team as Head of Innovation Commercialisation for Africa.
Upon returning to Uganda, Hashakimana led the Marketing and Innovation function before taking on the role of Commercial Director, overseeing a team of more than 200 people. Under his leadership, the company recorded double-digit profit growth and tripled turnover in key markets. His tenure was marked by enhanced sales and operations planning, improved execution, and the introduction of digital route-to-market solutions.
Renowned for championing diverse, high-performing teams, Hashakimana has promoted internal talent mobility in markets including the UK, Kenya, and Tanzania.
Gavin Hudson, Chief Operating Officer of Coca-Cola Beverages Africa (CCBA) – the parent company of CCBU described the appointment as part of a broader strategy to strengthen local leadership capacity.
“This appointment reflects our continued focus on strengthening local talent in Africa and building a strong leadership pipeline for the future,” Hudson said. “We have a people-first culture that ensures unparalleled professional development for our valued employees. Our aim is to nurture potential, attract and retain high-performing talent, and invest in growth.”
Hudson noted CCBA’s recognition as a Top Employer in Uganda, three other African countries, and at the continental level, saying it underscores the company’s commitment to being an employer of choice.
Welcoming Hashakimana to the leadership team, he added: “His passion for building high-performing teams and his deep understanding of the East African market make him a valuable addition. We look forward to the journey ahead with Emmy as part of our team.”