HR Excellence Spotlight: Kenya’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 Kenya's Best:

Evelyne Munyoki

Human Resources Director-Britam

Evelyne has over 15 years of senior leadership experience across various high-profile organizations. She holds a BA in Land Economics, an MBA from United States International University (USIU), and is pursuing a Doctorate at Regent University, USA. Certified as both a professional coach and an internationally recognized trainer and facilitator, Evelyne has spearheaded Human Capital strategies at organizations such as Kenya Airways PLC and Cooperative Bank of Kenya. She specializes in strategic HR business partnering, talent management, and employee engagement, with a focus on aligning engagement initiatives to drive organizational performance. A certified SHL International assessor, Evelyne brings expertise in psychometric assessment, executive recruitment, and HR strategy execution at multi-country levels. Her commitment to human capital development is underscored by certifications as a Professional Career Coach (CPCC) and Executive Leadership Coach (CELC), making her a valuable contributor at the strategic table.

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Florence Nyokabi

Chief Human Resources Officer-Safaricom

Briginette is an experienced human resources professional with a diverse background spanning multiple industries. She has been the Country HR Manager for Olam Cameroon since November 2022. In this capacity, Briginette manages key functions such as labour law compliance, employee training and development, and implementing HR strategies that align with the organisation’s broader business objectives. 

Before joining Olam, Briginette spent over 14 years at CHOCOCAM Tiger Brands, where she held various HR leadership roles, including HR Business Partner for Operations and HR Business Partner for Sales & Support Functions. At CHOCOCAM, she was pivotal in organisational structure planning, performance management, talent development, and cross-functional transformation programs. Her leadership in managing workforce processes and quality audits contributed significantly to the company’s success. 

Briginette holds a master's in communication and human resources management from the Catholic University of Central Africa. She is also certified in CHRP and has completed Communicating Persuasively & Building Trust training from Stanford Graduate School of Business. 

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Lillian Ngala

Human Resources Director - Diamond Trust Bank

Lillian serves on boards like the Africa Human Resource Congress and the Kenya Institute of Bankers. Founder of the Lillian Ngala Network and Foundation, she empowers future leaders and supports vulnerable communities. With an MBA from JKUAT and as a certified HR trainer, she has shaped Kenya's HR landscape in policy and talent management. Named a Top 100 Career Woman in Africa and a leading LinkedIn HR influencer, Lillian is a strong voice in media and conferences, advocating for workplace wellness and the future of work. She enjoys hiking, reading, writing, and golf.

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Raymond Muthama

Chief People & Culture Officer-Zamara Kenya

Raymond is a visionary HR leader with over 19 years of experience, known for his transformative approach to workplace culture. With a background in economics and HR expertise honed through roles at KPMG and ALN Kenya, Raymond combines strategic insight with a deep commitment to people-focused leadership. His journey into HR was inspired by Jack Welch’s philosophy, driving him to create synergies that balance organisational success with employee well-being. At Zamara, he is steering the firm towards remaining a high-performing and employer-of-choice organisation in East Africa.

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Peter Kabuga

Head of HR- UBA Kenya

Peter  brings over 14 years of strategic HR experience and a strong record in organizational success. Known for his innovative approach and communication skills, he has held key roles at CIB Kenya, NCBA, and Bank of Africa Kenya, enhancing HR policies and employee engagement. Based in Nairobi, Peter holds an MBA in HR Management from USIU-Africa, highlighting his commitment to excellence in HR.

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Cathrine Kamau

HR Manager-Swift Hands Africa,

Cathrine Kamau, Lead Consultant at Swift Hands Africa, brings over a decade of HR expertise, specializing in strategic leadership and employee engagement. With a Bachelor’s in Leadership and Management and an MBA in HR, she excels in crafting HR solutions that boost productivity and wellbeing. Known for her strategic insight and commitment to excellence, Cathrine is a trusted advisor and influential leader in HR transformation.

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Munyori Evans

Head of HR-Standard Chartered Bank

Munyori Evans is the Head of HR for Kenya and East Africa at Standard Chartered Bank, a role he's held since 2018. With nearly 20 years in HR, including nine years as an HR Business Partner in Kenya and Malaysia, he has extensive expertise in HR management. His strategic leadership has been key to enhancing organizational effectiveness and talent development at the bank.

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Caroline Karoki

Head of People and Culture,- Anjarwalla & Khanna

Caroline is a seasoned People & Culture professional with 15 years of experience, currently serving as Head of People & Culture at Anjarwalla & Khanna, Eastern Africa's largest corporate law firm. Her career includes a significant secondment to SWVL Kenya, where she led HR restructuring and established the People & Culture function. Previously, she was a People & Culture Manager at KPMG Kenya, advising major departments such as Audit and Tax. Known for her HR and accounting expertise, Caroline has supported multinational clients across Africa, demonstrating her goal-oriented and dependable approach in professional services.

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Priscah Muasya

Head of HR- QuickMart

Priscah Muasya, Head of HR at QuickMart, has over 12 years of experience in HR strategy, talent management, and employee experience. An IHRM member, she is skilled in driving performance through talent and culture initiatives, using technology to improve processes. Previously, she was Talent Acquisition & Development Manager at Naivas Limited. Known for her communication and mentoring skills, Priscah is committed to building a positive, high-performing workplace culture.

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Mumbi Kahindo

HR executive- Absa Bank Kenya

Mumbi, a seasoned HR executive with over 20 years in strategic talent management, now leads Leadership and Learning for Absa Regional Operations, covering 10 markets. Previously at Deloitte, she honed her expertise in organizational development, talent acquisition, and performance management across Kenya and New York. A certified executive coach, Mumbi excels in aligning HR strategies with business needs, enhancing employee engagement, and driving organizational success.

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JAPHETH ACHOLA

Group HR Director- KCB Group PLC

Japheth, Group HR Director at KCB Group PLC, brings nearly 20 years of international HR leadership experience. With executive roles at Allianz Africa, Ecobank, Safaricom, and Citibank, he has a strong record of driving transformative HR initiatives across Africa. Holding a Master’s in HR Management from the University of Leicester, he excels in talent management, reward systems, and cultural transformation. A strategic thought leader, Japheth's expertise in navigating cross-cultural environments makes him a vital force behind KCB Group’s human capital strategy.

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Samuel Birech

Director Human Resource & Administration- Cooperative Bank of Kenya

With more than 25 years of distinguished banking leadership, Samuel Birech brings an exceptional blend of operational excellence and strategic insight to his role as Director of Human Resource & Administration. His remarkable journey at the bank since 2002 showcases his versatility and transformative leadership, particularly exemplified during his tenure as Chief Operating Officer and Director of Retail Banking, where he orchestrated a revolutionary transformation of the Retail and SME business sectors. A graduate of the University of Nairobi with a Bachelor of Commerce degree, Samuel's expertise spans both local and international banking landscapes, making him uniquely qualified to drive human capital strategy with a deep understanding of banking operations. His current board membership at Pan Africa Christian University further demonstrates his commitment to educational excellence and community leadership. Samuel's rare combination of extensive banking experience and human resource leadership positions him as a strategic powerhouse in aligning people strategies with business objectives, making him an invaluable asset in driving organizational success through human capital excellence.

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Monicah Kihia

Group Director of Human Resources & Culture- NCBA

Monicah Kihia, Group Director of Human Resources & Culture at NCBA, is a leading HR figure in Africa with over 25 years in the financial sector. Known for her expertise in culture transformation and human capital strategy, she has held key roles, including at Citibank, leading HR across Sub-Saharan Africa. With an MBA in Strategic Management & HR and certification as an Executive Coach, Monicah excels in driving people-centered business results. Her talent for enhancing corporate culture and fostering organizational transformation makes her a key architect of success in African banking.

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Robert Muhita

Human Resources Director- Bamburi Cement PLC

Robert Muhita is an accomplished Organisation and Human Resources Director at Bamburi Cement PLC, leveraging extensive experience from his previous roles at APM Terminals, and Career Directions Ltd. With a Master's degree in Human Resources Management from Griffith University, Robert has developed deep expertise in the cement and maritime industries, excelling in negotiation, HR consulting, executive search, and team building. He is renowned for his leadership abilities and comprehensive knowledge of HR policies and practices, driving employee engagement and personnel management initiatives that align with organisational objectives. Robert’s strategic approach and robust skill set make him a vital contributor to fostering a productive workplace culture and enhancing overall business performance.

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Cecilia Kalungu - Uvyu

General Manager of HR and Administration- Kenya Power

Cecilia Kalungu-Uvyu, General Manager of HR and Administration at Kenya Power, has a strong background in HR strategy, talent management, and employee relations. Formerly Head of HR at the National Oil Corporation of Kenya, she holds an MBA in HR and a Certificate in HR Studies from Cornell. Cecilia is dedicated to workforce development and retention, enhancing performance management and training to drive success.

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Mrs. Beatrice Kandie

Acting General Manager- Kenya Electricity Generating Co. Plc

Mrs. Beatrice Kandie, Acting General Manager of HR and Administration at Kenya Electricity Generating Co. Plc, has over 24 years in human capital management. She specializes in Organizational Design, Employee Resourcing, and Change Management. Currently pursuing a PhD in HR Management from the University of Nairobi, she also holds a Master’s in HR from Kenyatta University and is a Certified HR Professional and Change Manager. A member of the Institute of HR Management, Beatrice focuses on optimizing human capital to drive stakeholder value in the energy sector.

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MR MARTIN MUTUMA

Head of HR & Administration- TotalEnergies Marketing Kenya PLC

Martin Mutuma, Head of HR & Administration at TotalEnergies Marketing Kenya PLC, brings over 20 years of expertise in HR, marketing, and talent development. With a Bachelor of Education from the University of Nairobi and diplomas in HR and Marketing, he has held key roles, including Business Development Manager and Brand & Communications Manager. Previously with Coca-Cola as a Sales & Marketing Executive, Martin now drives growth, talent, and strategy at TotalEnergies.

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Ann Karanu,

Head of HR- Jubilee Holdings Ltd

Ann Karanu, Head of HR at Jubilee Holdings Ltd, has over 21 years of HR experience across financial services, FMCG, and government sectors, with 16 years in banking. She holds an MBA and a Bachelor of Commerce, along with a CHRP-K certification, and is pursuing a Doctorate in Business Administration at USIU. Known for her skills in strategy, business planning, and change management, Ann is dedicated to fostering a dynamic workplace and driving organizational growth at Jubilee Holdings Ltd.

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Tom Shivo

Chief People Officer- Kenya Airways Ltd

Tom Shivo, Chief People Officer at Kenya Airways Ltd, is a seasoned HR leader with over 27 years of experience. Previously, he served as Group HR Director at HF Group and held senior HR roles at Safaricom, Airtel Africa, Coca-Cola Beverages Africa, and The Nairobi Hospital. Tom has an MBA in HR from the University of Nairobi, a Bachelor of Education from Kenyatta University, and advanced leadership certifications from GIBS, Oxford, and Strathmore. His expertise in talent management and strategic leadership drives organizational growth and transformation.

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Stella Kagwi

Group Head of Human Resources-WS Insight

Stella Kagwi, Group Head of Human Resources at WS Insight, is a dedicated HR leader focused on aligning HR strategies with organizational goals. Skilled in recruitment, employee relations, performance management, and payroll, she drives productivity and morale through effective HR policies. Known for her interpersonal skills, Stella fosters an employee-centric culture that boosts engagement and supports growth.

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Joyce Mwashigadi

Director of People and Culture- CIC Group Ltd

Joyce Mwashigadi, Director of People and Culture at CIC Group Ltd, is an experienced HR leader with over 20 years in the African banking sector. She holds an Executive MBA from ESAMI and certifications in emotional intelligence, coaching, and reward modeling from ROI Institute, Deloitte, and CIPD (UK). Formerly with KCB Group, Joyce is passionate about creating HR solutions that drive sustainable growth and support people to thrive.

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Judy Macharia

Head of HR and Culture- MOGO Kenya

Judy Macharia, an experienced HR leader, specializes in aligning people strategy with business goals across industries like Agriculture, Retail, Tech, and Oil & Gas. She holds an MBA, CHRP-K certification, and is a Full Member of IHRM. Known for her strategic approach to HR, Judy excels in employee relations, expatriate and change management, and DEIBM, focusing on operational excellence and workplace culture.

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Julius Ochieng

Head of HR- Mabati Rolling Mills Ltd (SAFAL Group),

Julius Ochieng, Head of HR at Mabati Rolling Mills Ltd (SAFAL Group), is an HR leader with over 20 years of experience in strategic HR, talent management, and operational excellence. With past roles at CIVICON Engineering, Directline Assurance, and Hashi Energy, he excels in building organizational systems, change leadership, and employee engagement. Holding an MBA in Strategic Management from the University of Nairobi, Julius focuses on aligning people strategies with business goals to foster high-performance, employee-centered cultures that drive sustainable growth.

 

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Farida Mohamed

Head of HR- the Children's Investment Fund Foundation (CIFF)

Farida Mohamed, Head of HR for Africa at the Children's Investment Fund Foundation (CIFF), is an experienced HR leader with a strong background across various sectors in Africa. Previously with GTBank Kenya, DLA Piper Africa, and KPMG East Africa, she has focused on talent management, HR capacity building, and aligning people strategies with organizational goals. Farida holds a Bachelor’s in Commerce (HR Management) from the University of Nairobi and a Higher National Diploma in HR from IHRM.

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Milkah Wamae

Head of Human Resources Gtbank Kenya-GTbank Kenya

Milkah Wamae is an accomplished Human Resource Management Professional and Corporate Culture Transformation Facilitator with over 15 years of experience working in diverse sectors across local and international markets. Currently the Head of Human Resources at GTBank Kenya, she has expertise in Job Analysis, Organisation Development, Change Management, Learning and Development, and HR Policy Formulation. Known as a visionary leader, she has successfully led cross-functional teams and strategic HR initiatives that drive organisational growth and employee engagement. Milkah holds a Bachelor's in Education from Kenyatta University, a Higher Diploma in Human Resource Management, and is an active member of IHRM Kenya.

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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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