First Ethiopian to Take Helm at Coca-Cola


First Ethiopian to Take Helm at Coca-Cola

Coca-Cola Beverages Africa (CCBA) in Ethiopia has appointed Melkamu Abebe as its new Managing Director, marking the first time an Ethiopian has held this position. His appointment follows a period as general manager of Coca-Cola Beverages Uganda (CCBU). Melkamu holds over 16 years of experience within the Coca-Cola system, starting with the Graduates in Training Programme in 2008 and progressing through supply chain and general management roles. While at CCBU, Melkamu integrated separate bottling entities. His educational background includes a BSc in Mechanical Engineering from Addis Abeba University, as well as leadership programs at the Georgia Institute of Technology and Nelson Mandela Metropolitan University. He takes over the reins from Daryl Wilson. CCBA is the largest bottler of Coca-Cola brands in Africa. CCBA-Ethiopia, operates four plants, including the country's largest in Sebeta with its daily production capacity of 72,000 cases, contributing to CCBA-Ethiopia's total daily output of 352,000 cases. Ambo Mineral Water Sc is also a CCBA subsidiary.


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