HR Excellence Spotlight: Benin'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 Benin's Best:

Mohamed Aminn Bouraima

Deputy Manager HR at Benin Textile SA

Mohamed Aminn Bouraima is an HR professional with experience in recruiting HR experts to address organizational challenges and drive results. He currently serves as Deputy Manager of Human Resources & Admin at Benin Textile SA in Cotonou. Mohamed emphasizes practical HR knowledge and experience for effective HR management. 

 

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Franck Sizogan

Human Resources Manager at NetByUs in Cotonou, Benin

Franck Sizogan is the Human Resources Manager at NetByUs in Cotonou, Benin, where he has been leading HR functions, including payroll and employee well-being, since January 2024. Known for his proactive and solution-oriented approach, Franck brings over six years of HR experience, previously serving as an HR Assistant and Junior Consultant at Cabinet RESHUFORM. He is highly motivated, attentive, and committed to fostering a supportive work environment. 

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Sergio Ahouandjinou

HR Manager at Optimise

Sergio Ahouandjinou is an HR Manager passionate about enhancing human capital. With extensive experience in recruitment, talent development, payroll, and performance management, he focuses on creating dynamic, inclusive workplaces where employees thrive. Currently, he serves as HR Manager at Uptimise and previously held roles at Cabinet YANE VERGER, where he managed recruitment, payroll, employee integration, and performance evaluations. Sergio brings a strong background in HR administration and fostering positive work environments. 

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Franck Akanni

Director Human Resources at CDC, Benin

Franck Akanni is a seasoned Legal and Human Resources Specialist with nearly 15 years of experience in legal consulting and HR. He holds a degree in Legal and Political Sciences and has a robust background in organizational development, particularly in West Africa. Franck joined Caisse des Dépôts et Consignations du Bénin in 2021 as Director of Human Resources and General Resources, where he drives human capital performance. His prior experience includes advancing within a sub-regional industrial group, gaining a comprehensive perspective on industrial issues across sub-Saharan Africa. 

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Paul Couthon

Senior Manager of Human Resources Operations at MTN Benin

Paul Couthon is the Senior Manager of Human Resources Operations at MTN Benin, bringing over 16 years of HR expertise, with a focus on compensation, talent management, and organizational optimization. Based in Cotonou, he has been with MTN for 18 years, with nine years in senior HR management roles. Paul holds a Doctorate in Business Administration with a specialization in HR management, further enhancing his expertise in talent acquisition, development, retention, and labor law within multinational environments. 

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Adonel Tokplo

Director of Human Resources at La Générale des Assurances du Bénin

Adonel Tokplo is the Director of Human Resources at La Générale des Assurances du Bénin, a role he has held since October 2022. With expertise in talent acquisition, compensation and benefits, health and safety, and talent retention, he supports the executive team in achieving strategic objectives. Previously, he served as Administrative and Financial Director at IUST-AS for three years. Based in Cotonou, Benin, Adonel is known for his strategic approach to HR management and talent development. 

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Axelle Bahini

West Africa Region HR Manager at AAK

Axelle Bahini is the West Africa Region HR Manager at AAK, with over 26 years of experience in multinational environments. She specializes in HR strategy and business transformation, aligning HR practices with strategic goals in areas like labor law compliance, talent management, and team leadership. Fluent in French and English, Axelle has led initiatives in corporate restructuring and performance-based compensation, contributing to sustained organizational growth. Known for her collaborative approach, she excels in project management and fostering a strong corporate culture across multicultural teams. 

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Hermance Kpossou

HR Manager at Engie Energy Access

Hermance Kpossou is an experienced Human Resources Manager and HR Business Partner with expertise in talent acquisition, performance management, HRIS, labor law, and compensation and benefits. Certified in human capital management, Hermance excels at strategic performance and change management, with a strong focus on talent development and retention. Known for her organizational skills and keen understanding of human relations, she is dedicated to aligning leadership with business goals while optimizing costs and fostering a productive work environment. 

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Christelle Houssou

Human Resources Manager at the African Education & Innovation Group (AEIG)

Christelle Houssou is the Human Resources Manager at the African Education & Innovation Group (AEIG) in Cotonou, Benin, bringing over five years of expertise in operations management, mission coordination, and logistics. Before AEIG, she served as Operations and Staff Manager at Epitech Bénin, where she developed skills in project coordination, report production, and program development. Christelle's diverse experience also includes a background in sales management at Greenroad International Logistics. 

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Hippolyte Lokonon

Head of Human Resources at Benin Agri Business & Benin Organics, ARISE IIP

Hippolyte Lokonon is the Head of Human Resources at Benin Agri Business & Benin Organics under ARISE IIP, a role he has held since July 2023. With expertise in managing the employee life cycle, mass recruitment, HR policy development, performance management, payroll, and industrial relations, he ensures efficient HR operations and compliance. Previously, he served as Recruitment and Internal Communications Manager at Celtiis Bénin. Hippolyte brings strong skills in employee relations, dispute resolution, and contract labor management to his work in Benin. 

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Nabilah Bello

HR Administrator at CEVA Logistics for Benin and Togo

Nabilah Bello is an HR Administrator at CEVA Logistics for Benin and Togo, a role she has held since September 2022. With over eight years of HR experience, she brings strong skills in labor law, payroll calculations, and employee relations. Previously, she served as HR Manager at CMA CGM in Cotonou, Benin, where she developed expertise in HR administration and talent management. Passionate about human relations and motivated to grow her career, Nabilah is dedicated to leveraging her experience and skills to contribute effectively in the HR field. 

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Marc Agbla

Senior Human Resources Manager at African Parks Network

Marc Agbla is a Senior Human Resources Manager with over seven years of experience at African Parks Network, based in Cotonou, Benin. Since January 2022, he has successfully overseen key HR functions, including business plan and budget management, recruitment for over 300 staff, payroll implementation for 800 employees, and health insurance policy management. Marc has established a Talent Development Pool and Succession Plan, maintained compliance with employment laws, and ensured smooth administration with no major HR audit issues or employment disputes. 

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Edowa Delidj

Senior Human Resources Manager at Eiffage Génie Civil in Cotonou, Benin.

Edowa Delidji is the Senior Human Resources Manager at Eiffage Génie Civil in Cotonou, Benin. Passionate about human resources, he emphasizes the importance of aligning organizational goals with employee aspirations, fostering well-being, and creating a positive work environment. With a holistic approach to HR management, Edowa values the role of human capital in driving company performance, focusing on employee engagement and contemporary HR practices that contribute to organizational success and growth. 

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Romain Nouwakpo

HR Manager at TechnoServe in Cotonou, Benin

Romain Nouwakpo is an experienced Human Resources Manager with over 10 years in multicultural organizations, focusing on HR development, labor law, and compensation. Currently, he serves as the Country HR Manager at TechnoServe in Cotonou, Benin, where he leads strategic HR management, recruitment, payroll, professional development, and employee relations. Romain is dedicated to fostering a healthy, sustainable work environment, and is skilled in HRIS, organizational development, and employer branding. Previously, he worked as Payroll Manager at Wave Mobile Money. 
 

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Guy Landry Fadonougbo

HR Manager at Management Sciences for Health in Benin

Guy Landry Fadonougbo is an HR and Administration Specialist with over 8 years of experience across sectors including healthcare, food, and cement industries. Skilled in social legislation, workplace health and safety, and HR digitalization, he is passionate about sustainable management and corporate social responsibility. Currently, he serves as HR and Administration Specialist at Management Sciences for Health in Benin. Guy has a strong foundation in HR digital tools, labor law, and innovative HR practices, and aims to contribute to value-driven, innovative organizations. 

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Guidigbi Michelle Houeffa

HR Manager at Air Liquide for Benin and Togo

Guidigbi Michelle Houeffa  is the HR Manager for Benin and Togo at Air Liquide, a role she has held since February 2014. With over a decade of experience in human resources, Michelle specializes in HR management and organizational development. Previously, she was the Assistant HR Manager at Plan Benin, where she developed her expertise in talent management and employee relations. 

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Meliha Ridha

Group Human Resources Director at GCF Holding

Meliha Ridha is the Group Human Resources Director at GCF Holding, a role she has held since August 2022. With a decade of experience in finance across various European companies, Meliha specializes in HR strategy, project leadership, and fostering diversity and inclusion. In addition to her role at GCF Holding, she owns and manages Hotel Oasis Guesthouse in Cotonou, Benin, where she is based. 

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Ange Sogbossi

Senior HR Operations Manager at African Development Bank Group

Ange Sogbossi is an experienced HR professional with a passion for human resources management, particularly in the international humanitarian and development sectors. Known for adaptability and creativity, Ange brings expertise in recruitment, from sourcing to closing, using job portals and social networks to identify talent. With strong analytical, interpersonal, and leadership skills, Ange excels in teamwork and has a conscientious, results-driven approach. Fluent in French (native) and proficient in English, Ange is skilled in Microsoft Office and is committed to effective communication and organizational excellence. 

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Aubin (Sourou) Kotho

Human Resources Director for CMA CGM in Benin, Niger, and Togo

Aubin (Sourou) Kotho is the Human Resources Director for CMA CGM in Benin, Niger, and Togo, with over 15 years of HR experience. He holds a master's in labor administration and social security from ENAM in Benin, specializing in HR management and labor administration. Aubin has extensive experience in HR across various sectors, including cotton processing, agricultural inputs, agro-food production, and port logistics, where he managed HR for a major cotton processing company in the region. His expertise spans personnel administration and strategic HR management. 

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Jocelyne Agbofoun

Human Resources and Payroll Manager at MACELEC BTP

Jocelyne Agbofoun is the Human Resources and Payroll Manager at MACELEC BTP in Benin, a role she has held since October 2020. A self-taught HR professional with a background in Beninese social law, Jocelyne is known for her adaptability and strong work ethic. Previously, she supported the Société Nationale d'Hôtellerie du Bénin in managing end-of-contract processes for 200 employees before transitioning to the construction sector. Dedicated to prioritizing people in her HR management approach, she is recognized as an effective, professional collaborator. 

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Oliver (Agbéléhounko) Ebo Houinou

HR Manager at MEDIMAT AFRIQUE SARL

Oliver (Agbéléhounko) Ebo Houinou is the HR Manager at MEDIMAT AFRIQUE SARL, a medical equipment distributor in West Africa. He oversees HR administration, legal compliance, and change management, drawing from experience in recruitment, conflict management, and internal communication. With degrees in HR management and legal sciences, Oliver is dedicated to enhancing employee well-being and organizational performance. 

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Naomi Donoumassou

Human Resources Manager at MIKEM TECHNOLOGIE SARL

Naomi Donoumassou is the Human Resources Manager at MIKEM TECHNOLOGIE SARL in Cotonou, Benin, a role she has held since November 2023. Dedicated to fostering organizational success through effective HR strategies and employee well-being, she previously served as Assistant HR Manager at the same company. Naomi is committed to refining HR policies for optimal results. 

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Assogba Hans Sosthène

Head HR at Oryx Energy

Assogba Hans Sosthène is an experienced HR Director with nearly 14 years in various sectors, including construction, renewable energy, oil and gas, fintech, and telecommunications. Skilled in building HR departments from scratch, he specializes in organizational design, HR strategy, employer branding, talent management, and HR development. Known for fostering strong corporate cultures and aligning HR with business goals, Hans is passionate about enhancing employee well-being to drive performance. He is also the initiator of HR Café Cotonou, a platform aimed at advancing HR practices within organizations. 

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Christian Hervé Akambi

HR Manager at Sogea-Satom

Christian Hervé Akambi is the HR Manager at Sogea-Satom, a leading construction company specializing in road building. He oversees HR functions, including recruitment, training, payroll, and administrative management, ensuring compliance with social, legal, and fiscal standards. In addition, as an HR Mission Lead, he coordinates cross-functional HR projects focused on skills management, mobility, diversity, social dialogue, and internal communication. Christian is dedicated to talent development, social innovation, and aligning the company’s HR strategy with its core values. 

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Virgilia Amoussou Epse Owolabi

Head of HR Administration at B.STEEL

Virgilia Amoussou Epse Owolabi is the Head of HR Administration at B.STEEL and an independent HR consultant, with over a decade of experience in human resources. She focuses on creating supportive work environments that enable employees to thrive and contribute to collective success. Her expertise spans strategic and operational HR, including optimizing recruitment and training processes. At B.STEEL, Virgilia has implemented talent retention and professional development practices aligned with the company's vision. She is passionate about workplace well-being and is dedicated to fostering a professional world where employees feel valued and motivated. 

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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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