By Spy Uganda
After an illustrious career spanning over 15 years, media executive Joe Kigozi has stepped down from his role as Deputy Group CEO and Chief Strategist at Next Media Services.
His resignation was confirmed by Next Media Group CEO, Kin Kariisa, who noted that Kigozi would continue working with the media powerhouse in a consultancy capacity, focusing on the group’s franchise model solutions.
“He’s going to work with us from the outside, handling the franchise model solutions,”Kin Kariisa told our Spy Irumba on Tuesday afternoon, confirming Joe’s transition. Â
Kigozi’s journey with the group has been defined by his unwavering dedication, marketing expertise, and leadership in some of the most significant projects that have propelled NBS Television, Sanyuka TV, and NBS Sport to the top of Uganda’s media landscape. Â
In his farewell message to staff on Tuesday, Kigozi reflected on his journey, breaking it down into two impactful periods: 2008-2015 and 2015-2025. He highlighted key achievements, including:
-Leading the NBS rebranding
– Heading the Beera Digital migration campaign
– Spearheading major marketing activations such as Owakabi (BTL Campaign)
-Supervising marketing and project leads for five years
-Chairing landmark events like the Uganda Economic Forum, Housing Baraza, and the launch of Next Media Park
-Overseeing the NBS@15 UB40 Anniversary project and
-Leading the Cancer Run project for seven years, among others.
Holding Multiple Senior Positions
Throughout his tenure at Next Media, Joe Kigozi held several high-profile roles, including:
– Chief Marketing Officer (CMO)-5 years
-General Manager, Nextcom-2 years
-General Manager, Sanyuka-5 years
-General Manager, NBS Sport-2 years
-Chief Strategy Officer-7 years
-Deputy Group CEO-7 years
His leadership extended beyond Next Media, as he also serves as Vice Chairperson of the National Association of Broadcasters (NAB) and founded the Joe Kigozi Academy, an initiative dedicated to nurturing young football talent.
A Bitter sweet Goodbye
In his heartfelt farewell, Kigozi expressed gratitude to the CEOs, clients, partners, and staff he worked with over the years. He acknowledged their contributions to the company’s transformation and emphasized that it was time for new blood to take on the mantle.
“These years have been filled with passion, dedication, and a relentless pursuit of transformation and innovation. I am incredibly proud of the impact we have made together,”* he wrote.
While Kigozi is stepping away from his executive role, his influence on Next Media will remain as he transitions into consulting for the group. His next moves outside Next Media remain undisclosed, but given his track record of success, industry insiders believe he will continue making a significant impact in Uganda’s media and business landscape.
This marks the end of an era but also the beginning of a new chapter for both Joe Kigozi and Next Media services Ltd.
Here at TheSpy Uganda, we wish Joe the best ahead, welcome to consultancy world big brother.