By Spy Uganda
Next Media Park, Naguru: Whereas some online ‘in-laws’ have misinterpreted Next Media Services’ internal memo about its top management team taking a seven-day nap as an indication of “sacking,” this move is, in fact, a masterstroke in strategic leadership that many organizations in Uganda could learn from. It’s a rare example of a company deliberately pausing operations at the top level to ask itself, “How can we do even better?” Not that they’re doing badly,but they’re yearning to improve every hour.
“You cannot properly think about improving the future of your organization while juggling day-to-day operations. You need time and space to reflect and plan,” said Kin Kariisa, CEO of Next Media, during a phone conversation with our Chief Spy, Andrew Irumba on Sunday night. Laughing off the baseless rumors, Kariisa added, “Who sacks an entire top management team for just one week? Does it make any logic?” He emphasized that the memo is not about cutting jobs but fostering growth.
“No one will lose their jobs,” he assured. “Instead, everyone will be empowered and aligned with roles that reflect their talents and strengths. If, for instance, someone is a great writer but is in the accounts department, our HR team will identify that and reassign them where they can thrive.”
Strategic Thinking for Sustainable Growth
This week-long leave is part of a broader Business Process Re-engineering (BPR) initiative designed to position Next Media Services for the future. With the organization having expanded from just one brand (NBS TV) 15 years ago to now managing 17 brands and from 100 to over 500 employees, it recognizes the need to adapt its systems to meet modern demands and harness the latest technologies.
Key Developments
- Seamless Operations During the Transition: While the top management team and Board focus on strategic planning, deputies in various departments have seamlessly stepped into leadership roles, demonstrating the robustness of Next Media’s systems.
- Realignment for Efficiency: The company will merge roles, expand responsibilities, and create new ones to maximize its workforce’s capabilities. Managers will undergo interviews for slots in the expanded Executive Committee (EXCO), which will now have 12 positions. Those who do not join the EXCO will be reassigned to other roles where they can excel.
- Empowering Employees: Every team member will be absorbed into the realigned structure. The focus is on identifying and nurturing talent, ensuring everyone is positioned for growth within the organization.
- Enhanced Leadership Tiers: New management levels will be introduced, streamlining decision-making and further empowering leadership across all departments.
A Benchmark for Other Organizations
“This move showcases the strength of the systems we’ve built,” Kariisa explained. “Even with the top management on leave, operations are running smoothly because deputies and teams are well-prepared and empowered. It’s something every organization should aspire to.” He also pointed out that the systems developed a decade ago were meant for a company managing 100 people. Now, with 500 employees and 17 brands, the need for realignment and reassignment has become critical to remain efficient and competitive.
A Glimpse Into Next Media Services
Next Media Services has grown into one of the most influential media groups in Uganda, with a portfolio of 17 brands, including NBS TV, Sanyuka TV, Nile Post, Salaam TV, Next Radio, and several other digital and social platforms. Starting with just one brand 15 years ago, the company has become a pioneer in delivering diverse media solutions, empowering young talent, and staying ahead in an ever-evolving media landscape.
This current restructuring initiative reflects their commitment to growth, innovation, and adaptability. By leveraging technology and empowering their workforce, Next Media is not just meeting today’s demands but is also laying the foundation for a brighter, more sustainable future. It is a story of vision, resilience, and leadership—one that sets the benchmark for others in the region.
