HR Excellence Spotlight: Gambia's Best

HR Excellence Spotlight is our flagship digital publication, highlighting the top 25 HR professionals in every African country.

Celebrating leaders who are driving change

This recognition celebrates leaders who are driving change, setting standards, and inspiring the next generation of HR talent.

Each edition of HR Excellence Spotlight not only celebrates excellence but also fosters dialogue and knowledge sharing among HR leaders through the HR Excellence mindset video series, making it a must-read for those passionate about HR's evolving role in Africa. Read on to explore the leadership mindsets that sets the best HR leaders apart.

Recognizing Gambia's Best:

Baboucarr Badjan

Head of Human Resources at Ecobank Gambia Ltd

Baboucarr leads strategic HR initiatives that shape the bank's human capital landscape.  
 
As a Chartered Fellow of the Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development (CIPD), he brings extensive expertise in HR best practices, employee engagement, and organizational growth. Baboucarr has spearheaded transformative projects that have strengthened Ecobank’s workforce efficiency and fostered a resilient, inclusive workplace culture.  
 
His commitment to impactful HR leadership has established him as an influential force within the industry, renowned for driving organisational success, enhancing employee well-being, and cultivating a positive work environment across diverse sectors. 
 

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Oumie Ceesay

Head of Human Resources Qcell Limited

Oumie is a transformative HR leader driving impactful talent and organizational strategies in The Gambia’s telecom sector.

With over a decade at Qcell, she has elevated HR practices, fostering a culture of engagement, growth, and resilience that fuels company success.

Armed with a BA in International Affairs and French from the University of Toronto and prior experience as a Bilingual Administrative Assistant, Oumie brings a global perspective and innovative approach to her work, positioning Qcell as a leader in people-centered excellence in the region. 

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Modou Sise

Human Resources Manager Gambia Tourism Board

Modou is a seasoned Organizational Development Specialist with over a decade of experience in human resources management, currently serving at the Gambia Tourism Board. Since joining in October 2013, he has played a pivotal role in workforce planning, coaching, and driving organizational effectiveness. Previously, Modou was the Human Resources Manager at Edward Francis Small Teaching Hospital, where he provided strategic guidance on HR policies and recruitment processes, significantly enhancing employee relations and performance management. With a Master’s in Management from the University of Derby and a proven track record in HR leadership, Modou is dedicated to fostering a thriving work environment that aligns with organizational goals.

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Katty Jatta

Head Human Resources Access Bank

Katty brings over 19 years of comprehensive experience to her role. Armed with a BSc in Administration (Accounting Option) from the University of Ghana, she excels in shaping a dynamic workplace culture that prioritizes employee engagement and development.  
 
Katty is pivotal in executing strategic HR initiatives that attract, nurture, and retain top talent, driving Access Bank Gambia's mission of delivering unparalleled banking services. Her leadership not only enhances operational efficiency but also strengthens the bank's position as a leader in the financial landscape. 

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Awa Ndure

HR/admin manager Global Properties Gambia Ltd.

Awa is a seasoned HR professional with 16 years of experience, adept at fostering a positive workplace culture and driving organisational success. Since joining the industry in 2008, she has become a trusted advisor to clients and employees alike, ensuring that their needs are met with precision and care.

Awa is passionate about leveraging her extensive knowledge of human resources to develop strategies that enhance employee engagement, streamline administrative processes, and drive performance.  
 
Her dedication to going the extra mile not only elevates the HR function but also results in happy, productive teams and satisfied clients, making her an invaluable asset to her organisation. 

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Sheriff Sheikhna Sisay

Head of Human Resources Trust Bank Limited

Sheriff is an accomplished HR leader at Trust Bank Limited in The Gambia, bringing extensive experience in the banking sector. With a robust background in human resources management, Sheriff excels in crafting strategic HR initiatives that align with organisational goals and enhance employee engagement.  
 
His expertise spans event planning, data analysis, corporate communications, and creative writing, enabling him to drive innovative solutions within the workplace. Armed with a Bachelor's degree in International Relations and Politics from the University of The Gambia, Sheriff combines his academic foundation with practical insights to foster a dynamic work environment that supports both individual and organizational growth.

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Fats Ceesay

HR Manager SICPA Gambia Ltd

Fats Ceesay is a resourceful HR Manager with over a decade of experience in diverse sectors, including Manufacturing, Aviation, and Oil and Gas. Armed with a Master’s Degree in Human Resource Management and CIPD accreditation, she excels in negotiation, budgeting, and team building.  
 
Her prior leadership roles, notably as Head of HR at Gambia National Petroleum Corporation, have honed his ability to align HR strategies with organizational goals. Fats is dedicated to cultivating a vibrant workplace culture that enhances employee engagement and drives organisational success.

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Saaro Darboe

Head of Human Resources YONNA GROUP

Momodou he plays a pivotal role in shaping HR strategies that foster a dynamic and innovative workplace. With extensive experience in the telecommunications sector, Momodou is dedicated to optimizing talent management and driving organisational performance. 
 
His leadership ensures that the company not only attracts top talent but also cultivates an inclusive culture that empowers employees to excel and contribute to the company's success. 

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Macoumba Njie

Head of HR Kombo Beach Hotel

Macoumba has been instrumental in enhancing operational efficiency and fostering a positive workplace culture for over five years. 

With extensive experience in the hospitality sector, Macoumba excels in human resources management, ensuring that staffing and administrative functions align with the hotel's strategic goals. His strong background in tourism and hotel management, complemented by his skills in negotiation and health and safety, empowers him to effectively manage HR initiatives that enhance employee engagement and service excellence. 

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Lamin Yabou

Human Resources Manager Royal Insurance Gambia Limited

With nearly 11 years in the role, Lamin has overseen workforce planning, talent acquisition, and HR policy development, all while fostering a supportive organizational culture. His deep understanding of HR practices, combined with his commitment to employee well-being and corporate growth, has helped Royal Insurance navigate a rapidly evolving industry, positioning the company as an employer of choice in The Gambia. 

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Aisatu Maane

Head of Human Resources Mega Bank Gambia

Aisatu is a dynamic leader currently serving as the Head of Resources at MegaBank Gambia Ltd, where she leverages over eight years of experience in the banking sector. Her previous roles include Head of Human Resources and Head of Business Development at FBNBank Gambia, where she significantly enhanced operational efficiency and talent management strategies.  
 
With a proven track record in business development and human resources, Aisatu excels at fostering a high-performance culture that drives organizational success and employee satisfaction. Her expertise extends to strategic planning, project management, and customer relationship management, making her a key asset to MegaBank's growth and innovation initiatives.

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Abdou E Badjie

HR Manager Gambia International Airlines

Abdou has transformed HR practices over five impactful years in the aviation sector. Renowned for his expertise in public speaking, HR policies, and labor relations, Abdou excels in cultivating a high-performance culture that drives employee satisfaction and organisational success.  
 
His MBA in Business Administration from the University of Buckingham enhances his strategic vision, allowing him to lead innovative HR initiatives that align with the company's goals. With a passion for nurturing talent and a commitment to excellence, Abdou is a pivotal force in shaping the future of Gambia International Airlines. 

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Ernest A. Mendy

Director of Human Resource and Administration Gambia Revenue Authority

With 30 years of public service experience, including over 20 years dedicated to Human Resources, Ernest A. Mendy is a distinguished leader in the field. As the current Director of Human Resources & Administration for the Gambia Revenue Authority, he has been instrumental in driving HR reforms that established the Authority as a regional leader in competency-based HRM. Ernest's extensive background includes pivotal roles at the Ministry of Health and the Gambia Civil Aviation Authority, complemented by his postgraduate and master's degrees in Human Resources Management from the University of Manchester. 
 
A recognized expert in HRM across West and Central Africa, he has facilitated modernization initiatives for revenue authorities in Liberia, Guyana, and Eswatini. A member of the Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development (CIPD) in the UK, Ernest combines strong analytical skills with exceptional communication and leadership abilities, making him a vital asset in advancing organizational effectiveness and integrity. 
 

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Eliman Ndow

Human Resources Manager Gambia Coral Beach Hotel & Spa

Eliman Ndow is a dynamic Human Resources Manager at Gambia Coral Beach Hotel & Spa, bringing over seven years of expertise in shaping HR strategies that enhance employee engagement and drive operational excellence
 
With prior experience at Jerma Beach Hotel Resort and SunSwing Beach Resort, he leverages his education from the Cooperative College of Malaysia to implement effective HR practices in the hospitality sector. Eliman is passionate about fostering a positive workplace culture, positioning him as a key architect of success in a competitive environment.

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Fatou Busso

Human Resources Manager Djeliba Leisure Group & Balafon Company Ltd

Fatou Busso is an accomplished Human Resources Personnel at Djeliba Leisure Group, with over six years of experience enhancing HR functions in the hospitality sector. A graduate of the Management Development Institute in The Gambia, Fatou excels in employee relations, training facilitation, and logistics management.  
 
She plays a vital role in maintaining employee records, conducting interviews, and delivering training on company policies and customer service excellence. Her strong communication skills and dedication to fostering a positive work environment make her an invaluable asset to her organisation.

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Sainey Drammeh

Head, Human Resources and Administration Reliance Financial Services

Sainey Drammeh is an accomplished HR leader driving transformative strategies as the Head of Human Resources and Administration at Reliance Financial Services Company Ltd.
 
With a deep commitment to enhancing organisational performance and employee engagement, Sainey leverages his extensive experience to implement innovative HR initiatives that foster a culture of excellence. His strategic approach and expertise position him as a vital force in shaping the future of the organisation, ensuring alignment with its vision and objectives. 

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Jorr Houma Gillen

Head of Human Resources Vista Bank Group Gambia

As a dynamic leader with over a decade of experience in the financial services sector, Jorr Houma Gillen excels as the Head of Human Resources at Vista Bank Group. Her strategic vision and expertise in human capital management have positioned her as a key driver of organizational success.  

 

Jorr's commitment to fostering a culture of innovation and employee engagement enables her to cultivate talent and enhance performance across the bank. With a strong background in corporate banking and branch operations, she combines financial acumen with a passion for people development, making her an invaluable asset in shaping Vista Bank's future. 

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Suwadou Badjie

Director of H.R and Administration Gambia Ports Authority

With a distinguished role as Director of HR and Administration at Gambia Ports Authority, Suwadou Badjie leads a strategic, people-centered approach to strengthening the organisation’s workforce.  
 
Her leadership ensures streamlined HR operations, robust employee engagement, and adherence to best practices in organisational management. Suwadou’s expertise in administration and her commitment to advancing workplace culture position her as a pivotal force in GPA’s continued success and growth. 

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Musa Jallow

Senior Human Resources Officer Ministry of Health (Gambia)

Musa Jallow is a visionary HR leader at the Ministry of Health, combining over eight years of expertise in public administration, health policy, and workforce management. Driven by a passion for enhancing healthcare delivery, he plays a pivotal role in shaping a robust health workforce across The Gambia.  
 
Musa oversees strategic recruitment, staff deployment, and professional development, ensuring that healthcare personnel are positioned to make meaningful impacts where they’re needed most. Through his adept management of training, incentives, and innovative HR strategies, Musa not only strengthens healthcare capacity but also champions a healthier future for the nation. 

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Cherno B. Jallow

Administrative and Human Resources Manager Gambia Postal Services Corporation

Cherno B. Jallow is a seasoned leader in administration and HR, driving operations at Gambia Postal Services Corporation for over 14 years. His work combines strategic recruiting, effective budgeting, and streamlined planning to strengthen organizational efficiency and employee performance.

With a commitment to adapting HR to the digital age, Cherno advocates for integrating ICT in educational and business environments to keep pace with rapid information growth. His previous roles, including Payroll & Credit Controller at Netcom Information Technology and Administrative Manager at the Medical Research Council, highlight his deep expertise in financial oversight and organisational management.  

 

Cherno’s approach to leadership emphasizes forward-thinking strategies that prepare teams for the demands of a connected, digital economy. 

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Fatou J. Jallow

Director of Human Resources & Admin Gambia Civil Aviation Authority

Fatou J. Jallow serves as the Director of Human Resources & Administration at the Gambia Civil Aviation Authority, bringing strategic insight and a commitment to operational excellence to the nation’s aviation sector.

Her leadership is instrumental in shaping the Authority’s workforce strategies, enhancing staff development, and strengthening administrative efficiency to support Gambia's growing aviation needs. With a sharp focus on aligning HR practices to the Authority’s vision, Fatou is at the forefront of fostering a dynamic, high-performance environment that meets international aviation standards. 

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Yaya Tamba

Human Resources and Admin Manager S&S Properties Gambia

Yaya Tamba serves as the Human Resources and Admin Manager at S&S Properties Gambia, where he has been instrumental in driving HR and administrative excellence since 2018. With a foundation in Economics and Finance from the University of The Gambia and further expertise gained from his MBA studies, Yaya leverages his strategic mindset and relentless pursuit of growth to foster a dynamic and inclusive workplace. Known for his high standards and passion for impactful change, he channels his inquisitive nature into developing innovative HR initiatives and creating an environment that empowers employees to excel, ultimately contributing to the success of S&S Properties in the competitive real estate market. 

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Alieu M Singhateh

Director of People Operations at AMS Mavens

Alieu M. Singhateh, MCIPD, CPLP, is a transformative leader and Director of People Operations at AMS Mavens, where he implements innovative HR strategies to attract and nurture top talent, fostering a highly engaged workforce. With over five years of experience, including key roles such as Group Head of Operations & HR at Unique Group and HR/Learning & Development Manager at Tsogo Sun in Abu Dhabi, Alieu has significantly enhanced employee performance and organizational culture.  

His expertise in business process improvement drives efficiencies and profitability, while his commitment to continuous learning empowers employees through impactful training programs. A strong advocate for creating thriving work environments, Alieu is dedicated to leading AMS Mavens towards sustainable growth and innovation, demonstrating that when people flourish, businesses excel. 

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Baboucarr Cham

Director- Human Resources Department Central Bank of Gambia

Baboucarr Cham is the Director of the Human Resources Department, where he leads initiatives focused on recruiting highly qualified and experienced staff to drive organizational success. Under his direction, the department not only oversees comprehensive training programs to develop employee skills but also ensures a fair and supportive staff welfare system. Baboucarr’s leadership promotes an equitable and progressive work environment, aligning talent management with organizational goals for sustained growth and employee satisfaction. 

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Dr. Yankuba E. Manneh MBA, PhD

Director, Human Resources and Administration, Social Security and Housing Finance Corporation

Dr. Yankuba E. Manneh is a highly accomplished HR leader, currently serving as the Director of Human Resources and Administration at the Social Security and Housing Finance Corporation (SSHFC) in The Gambia. With over 10 years of HR experience, Dr. Manneh is a registered member of the Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM) and specializes in developing high-performance teams and fostering an inclusive and productive work environment. He holds an MBA in International HR and a PhD in Public Administration with a focus on HR. His career includes a significant tenure at the University of The Gambia (UTG), where he was Deputy Director and Acting Director of HR and Head of the HR Unit in the School of Business and Public Administration. During this time, Dr. Manneh led curriculum development, faculty recruitment, and HR policy improvements, making a lasting impact in both academia and professional HR management. His broad expertise encompasses training, HR planning, compensation management, and organizational development. 

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What Sets Great HR Leaders Apart?

True HR leadership extends beyond skills and qualifications; it’s anchored in the powerful mindsets that enable some HR professionals to excel and make a lasting impact. Are you ready to shift your perspective and elevate your leadership from good to truly exceptional?

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