Tewolde Gebremariam Biography: Age, Early Life, Education and Career of Air India's Incoming CEO

Air India, a Tata Group airline, has appointed Tewolde Gebremariam as its new Chief Executive Officer (CEO) and Managing Director (MD), replacing Campbell Wilson. Gebremariam took charge of the airline's operations on September 7, 2026 where he spoke to all the airline's employees accompanied by Tata Sons Chairman N. Chandrasekaran at the company-wide town hall.

Although the official announcement was made today and the final regulation clearance is awaited, Gebremariam has taken charge of operations and has already started working as the acting CEO of the organisation. 

Tewolde Gebremariam Biography

Early Life and Education

• Birthing Place:Gebremariam was born in Ethiopia and kept his education back at home before he commenced studies in engineering and business management. 

• Graduation: He received his B.Sc. in Building Officer/Construction from Addis Ababa University in Ethiopia. 

• Master’s Degree: Later he got his MBA degree from The Open University in the UK.

• Career Development: During his long career, Gebremariam got a number of management certificates in the area of airlines, hub logistics, and safety management systems.

Career Journey 

Gebremariam has been in different areas of international aviation, logistics, and airline operations for many years:

•  1985: Joined Ethiopian Airlines’ Transportation Services                         

•  1990s: Worked in Regional and International Operation (Mumbai included)                          

•  2006: Became Chief Operating Officer (COO).                   

•  2011-2022: Worked as Group CEO of Ethiopian Airlines                          

•  2026: Became CEO and Managing Director of Air India.

Ethiopian Airlines (1985 – 2022)

• Getting into Aviation: Gebremariam started working in aviation in 1985 when he was appointed by Ethiopian Airlines as an agent in cargo and passenger traffic services.

• International Experience: In the 1990s, he was responsible for international operations in various regions like in Mumbai.

• Career Progression: In 2006, he received a promotion to be Chief Operating Officer (COO) in charge of global flight operations, maintenance, repairs, and ground operations.

• A 11-Year CEO Office: In 2011, Gebremariam was appointed as Group CEO of Ethiopian Airlines where he led the airline during the phase of expansion according to profit.

• Financial Performance Improvement: Increased total revenue of the airline more than four times.

• Fleet Development: Expanded the number of operating fleet of Ethiopian Airlines almost three times.

• Airport and Infrastructure Development: Transit hub of Addis Ababa was established by developing world-class training and maintenance infrastructures. 

Gebremariam Takes Over Management at Air India (2026)

 The Air India's Board of Directors appointed Gebremariam to the position of CEO on August 5, 2026, succeeding Campbell Wilson. Gebremariam took over as CEO on September 7, 2026. His stated objectives are as follows:

Ensuring safety and technical performance become the only must-have focus. Achieving better operational effectiveness and transit time as well as communicating effectively with passengers. Enhancing long-haul international lines and improving aircraft service capabilities.

 Awards and Recognition 

• African CEO of the Year: Acknowledged on several occasions by international aviation platforms for managerial proficiency and successful administration. He held responsibility of serving in the IATA Board of Governors.

• International Transport Forum Award: Given recognition for the creation of one of the most enduring airline business models in times of recession. 

• International Transport Forum Award: Given recognition for the creation of one of the most enduring airline business models in times of recession. 

The appointment of Tewolde Gebremariam is timely for Air India. His success in sustaining Ethiopian Airlines as the most profitable airline in Africa combined with the emphasis on safety, efficient operations, and maintenance positions him as the right candidate to guide Air India during this transformational phase. 

In partnership with Tata Group leaders, Gebremariam has the goal of creating a reliable airline that puts its customers and their safety first.