HR Excellence Spotlight: Sierra leone’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 Sierra Leone's Best:

Olabisi Turner

Head, Human Resources, Eco Bank

Olabisi has over 16 years of experience driving HR excellence in the financial sector. She is an expert in talent acquisition, training and development, employee relations, and HR operations, ensuring that the bank’s HR strategies align with business objectives to foster a high-performance culture. With a postgraduate certificate in Human Resources Management from Salford Business School and a background in Business Management from GSM London, Olabisi combines strategic insight with hands-on expertise to elevate organisational success. Her leadership in conflict resolution and HR systems further strengthens Ecobank’s workforce capabilities. 

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Andrew Sao Fatoma

Human Resources Director, Africell

Andrew Sao Fatoma is a dynamic and results-driven Human Resources Director at Africell Sierra Leone, with over a decade of experience transforming HR strategies in both telecommunications and banking. His expertise spans talent acquisition, performance management, and organizational development, underpinned by a robust background in corporate communications and procurement. With a Bachelor's in Linguistics and a Diploma in Mass Communications from Fourah Bay College, along with certifications as a Certified Human Resource Analyst (CHRA) and a Fellow of the Global Academy of Finance and Management (GAFM), Andrew has consistently demonstrated his ability to align people strategies with business objectives, driving impactful change and operational excellence. 

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Vincent Emmauel Davis

HR Manager, Freetown International Airport

Vincent Emmanuel Davis is a proactive and resourceful HR leader with a reputation for fostering seamless team collaboration and implementing efficient HR frameworks. As the Human Resource and Admin Manager at Freetown International Airport, he expertly navigates high-stakes scenarios, managing everything from recruitment and industrial relations to complex union negotiations and compliance. Previously a Deputy Manager in HR and Corporate Affairs at Vimetco-SMHL, Vincent has demonstrated a keen ability to balance strategic HR initiatives with operational needs, creating an optimal work environment that supports both employee engagement and corporate growth. 

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Mariama Kamara

Head, Human Resources, Standard Chartered Bank

Mariama Kamara, Head of Human Resources at Standard Chartered Bank, is a powerhouse in the HR space, with over 16 years of transformative leadership. Renowned for her strategic expertise in service delivery, talent development, and resourcing, Mariama consistently drives impactful solutions with precision and passion. She is a strong advocate for people’s growth, empowering teams to thrive and reach their full potential. Her empathetic and motivational leadership style has not only earned her trust but has also fostered a culture of excellence and continuous development. A proud graduate of Cambridge International College with a Bachelor’s in Business Administration, Mariama embodies the principles of quality, courage, and empathy, leaving an indelible mark on everyone she works with 

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Kabba Ndigi Kamara

Human Resource Manager, Capitol Foods Sierra Leone Limited

Kabba Ndigi Kamara, Human Resource Manager at Capitol Foods Sierra Leone Limited, brings over eight years of impactful experience in HR and administration. Known for his strategic vision, Kabba excels in cultivating vibrant workplace cultures and optimizing operations to drive significant business outcomes. At Capitol Foods, he has been a key force in aligning human capital initiatives with the company’s mission of promoting Sierra Leonean products globally. Previously, he led human capital development and corporate communications at FirstBank of Sierra Leone, demonstrating his versatility and leadership. With a Master’s in Public Administration from the University of Sierra Leone, Kabba is a proactive leader dedicated to fostering growth and excellence. 

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Issa Kanu

Head, Human Resources, Eco Bank Microfinance

Issa Kanu, Head of Human Resources at Ecobank Microfinance Sierra Leone, is a strategic leader with a proven track record in transforming HR practices to drive business growth. With a Master’s in Development Studies from Njala University, he specializes in labor relations, contract management, and talent development. Over his career, Issa has streamlined HR operations, enhanced employee engagement, and led successful succession planning initiatives. His experience spans across roles in major microfinance and industrial sectors, demonstrating his adaptability and commitment to excellence in aligning human capital strategies with organizational goals. 

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Akasi Manyi Dede

Development and Recruitment Manager, EasySolar

Akasi Manyi Dede, Development and Recruitment Manager at EasySolar, is a dynamic Chartered Practitioner (CIHRMP) with a proven record of transforming talent and organisational culture across multiple markets in West Africa. Spearheading learning, development, and recruitment initiatives for EasySolar’s Sierra Leone and Liberia operations, she drives impactful strategies that boost employee performance and engagement. Previously, she led HR operations at Samsung Electronics in Ghana, where her strategic approach led to notable HR improvements. Known for her passion for building inclusive, growth-oriented cultures, Akasi expertly aligns talent development with business goals, ensuring exceptional results and sustainable organisational success. 

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Ann-Marie Thomas

Head Human Resources, GTB

Ann-Marie Thomas is a certified HR professional with over a decade of impactful experience in both private and international non-profit sectors. As Head of HR at GTB Sierra Leone, she has successfully led strategic HR transformations, aligning organisational goals with people development initiatives. Skilled in Sierra Leone’s labour laws, she excels in policy development, recruitment, and staff negotiations. Previously, at Sierra Leone Bottling Company (Coca-Cola), she drove HR strategy and public affairs, enhancing community partnerships. Ann-Marie holds an MBA in HR Management from Irish University Business School, combining strategic insight with a passion for cultivating talent. 

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Humu Kamara

Head, Human Resources, Sierra Leone Brewery Limited

Humu Kamara serves as the Head of Human Resources at Sierra Leone Brewery Limited, a subsidiary of HEINEKEN. She is a leader committed to building a high-performance culture. She drives impactful HR initiatives, ensuring strategic alignment between business objectives and workforce development. Known for her expertise in talent management and employee engagement, she has significantly enhanced the company’s operational excellence. Humu excels in fostering an inclusive and motivated workplace, making her an invaluable asset in propelling Sierra Leone Brewery’s growth and sustainability. 

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Agnes Songa

Human Resource Director, Orange

Agnes Songa, as the Human Resources Director at Orange Sierra Leone, is a  leader driving transformative HR practices and employee empowerment strategies. She played a pivotal role in Orange Sierra Leone’s historic achievement of becoming the first telecom company in the nation to receive the Top Employer certification in 2024. Agnes excels in cultivating a thriving, inclusive work culture, focusing on talent development, diversity, and employee engagement. Her vision is deeply rooted in creating pathways for professional growth, ensuring that the company’s HR policies not only meet but exceed global standards. Her leadership continues to shape an environment where employees feel valued, motivated, and inspired to achieve their best, ultimately aligning the workforce with Orange's broader mission of innovation and excellence. 

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Alusine Conteh

Human Resource & Corporate Affairs Manager, Sierra Minerals Holdings 1 Limited

Alusine Conteh is a dynamic Human Resource & Corporate Affairs Manager at Sierra Mineral Holdings 1 Limited, expertly steering HR strategy and corporate governance in a complex mining environment. With a robust background across multiple sectors, he has consistently implemented effective talent management, policy development, and organisational transformation. He possesses a solid academic background, holding an MSc in Human Resource Management and Development from the University of Salford making him a proactive leader focused on enhancing workforce engagement and operational efficiency, while maintaining a strong corporate presence and reputation. 

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Kultumi Massally

Human Resource Director Union Trust Bank Limited

Kultumi Massally, the Human Resource Director at Union Trust Bank (UTB), brings over three decades of unparalleled expertise in the banking industry, having begun her career at Meridien Bank Sierra Leone and progressing to influential leadership roles at UTB, the nation's only private indigenous bank. Her extensive experience spans operations, marketing, administration, compliance, and human resources, showcasing her adaptability and breadth of skills. Cultivating a results-driven and people-focused approach, she has been instrumental in driving strategic initiatives that align HR functions with the bank’s business objectives. Equipped with a BA from Fourah Bay College and an MBA from the Institute of Public Administration and Management (IPAM), she combines academic excellence with practical, hands-on leadership, making her a transformative force in the banking sector 

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Barry Honnah

Human Resource Manager, Sierra Rutile Limited

Barry Honnah is an accomplished HR professional currently leading the human resources function at Sierra Rutile Limited. With a wealth of experience in both mining and telecommunications, he has a proven track record of enhancing workforce efficiency and implementing strategic HR initiatives. Previously, Barry drove impactful transformations as the Director of Human Resources at Orange SL and managed critical HR operations at African Minerals. With an MSc in Industrial Relations and Personnel Management from the London School of Economics (LSE), Barry blends academic expertise with industry insight, ensuring comprehensive HR strategies that promote growth and operational excellence. 

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Patricia Nana Thomas

Human Resources Director, Groupe Sonoco

Patricia Nana Thomas is a dynamic leader serving as the Head of Human Resources and Legal at Skye Bank Sierra Leone. With a strategic focus on aligning human capital with business goals, she expertly integrates legal compliance into talent management practices, ensuring a cohesive and productive workforce. Her influence extends to developing forward-thinking policies that enhance employee engagement, drive diversity, and foster professional growth, creating a thriving workplace culture. Patricia’s commitment to excellence consistently propels organisational success, making her a pivotal asset in the bank’s executive leadership team. 

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Saweda Deen

Human Resources Director, Groupe Sonoco

Saweda Deen is a dynamic Human Resources leader at Groupe Sonoco, with a proven track record in transforming organisational culture and operations. Prior to Groupe Sonoco, she led HR initiatives at BRAC Sierra Leone, leading strategic HR programs that optimized talent development, diversity, and compliance. Her comprehensive approach integrates HR, operations, and legal compliance, ensuring alignment with business objectives while enhancing workforce performance. With expertise in leadership, policy formulation, and safeguarding, Saweda consistently drives organisational excellence, fostering a culture of innovation and sustainable growth. 

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Georgina Williams

Human Resources & Administration Manager , NP Sierra Leone

Georgina Williams, as the Human Resources & Administration Manager at NP Sierra Leone, is a dynamic leader renowned for shaping high-impact HR strategies that fuel the company's success. With a keen eye for talent development and operational excellence, Georgina has transformed NP’s workforce initiatives, making the company a benchmark in employee engagement and productivity in the energy sector. Her visionary approach fosters a resilient organizational culture, championing both innovation and integrity. Georgina’s leadership continues to advance NP Sierra Leone’s mission of delivering exceptional energy solutions, while her commitment to workforce excellence empowers teams to reach new heights. 

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Tommy Magao

Head of Administration, SLAA

Tommy Magao is a visionary in administrative leadership, whose strategic mindset and structured processes have transformed SLAA’s operations. As Head of Administration, Tommy has set new standards for teamwork and operational clarity, creating an environment that consistently drives peak performance. His ability to distill complex management directives into actionable frameworks empowers SLAA’s teams, supporting the organization’s mission to be a leader in regional aviation excellence. Tommy’s leadership is pivotal to SLAA’s growth, positioning the authority as a benchmark in administrative excellence across the industry. 

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Claurinda Morgan

Human Resources Manager, Free Town Terminal

Claurinda Morgan, as Human Resources Manager at Freetown Terminal under the Bolloré Group, is a transformative leader shaping an empowered, inclusive workplace culture. Her strategic leadership goes beyond typical HR roles; she drives meaningful corporate social responsibility initiatives and champions gender equality, exemplified through impactful celebrations like International Women’s Day. Claurinda’s innovative approach strengthens Bolloré’s mission by fostering a collaborative workforce aligned with corporate values, while her dedication to community outreach underscores her commitment to positive social impact. Her work positions Freetown Terminal as a model of operational excellence and social responsibility in Sierra Leone 

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Millicent Yormah

Head, Human Resources, UBA

Millicent Yormah, Head of Human Resources at UBA Sierra Leone, is a dynamic leader dedicated to elevating UBA's people strategy through innovative HR practices and a strong commitment to employee growth. With over a decade of expertise in the banking sector and a background in customer service from her tenure as Head of Customer Services at Zenith Bank, Millicent has been instrumental in transforming UBA Sierra Leone’s workplace culture. Her leadership has led to a record-breaking round of promotions across the bank, underscoring her dedication to talent development and employee recognition. By championing initiatives like UBA's People’s Happiness project, which focuses on well-being and retention, Millicent not only aligns HR practices with business goals but also strengthens UBA’s mission to create a supportive and high-performing environment 

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Yvonne Elliot

Human Resource Manager, Radisson Blu

Yvonne Elliot, the Human Resource Manager at Radisson Blu, is a seasoned leader in hospitality HR, known for her expertise in fostering a vibrant, employee-centered culture that aligns with the company’s commitment to high-quality guest experiences. At Radisson Blu, she champions initiatives across recruitment, training, and employee engagement, ensuring that each team member is not only prepared but also empowered to deliver exceptional service. Elliot’s experience in dynamic, fast-paced environments has honed her ability to implement impactful HR strategies, which drive both talent retention and operational efficiency, making her an invaluable asset to the Radisson Blu team 

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Jane Mabasa

Human Resources & Admin Manager, Nectar Sierra Leone Bulk Terminal

Jane Mabasa is the Human Resources & Admin Manager at Nectar Sierra Leone Bulk Terminal, where she leads HR strategy and administration for West Africa’s premier port management provider. With over 14 years of global experience, spanning the UK, South Sudan, and Sierra Leone, she has excelled in driving business-aligned HR policies, managing multimillion-dollar budgets, and fostering a culture of growth and compliance. Jane’s expertise, including past work with Marie stopes Sierra Leone, reflects her commitment to impactful HR solutions and organizational excellence. 

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James B. W. Russel

Human Resources Manager, TANDEEN group of companies Sierra Leone Limited

James B. W. Russell, Human Resources Manager at TANDEEN Group of Companies Sierra Leone, is a transformative HR leader renowned for his expertise in strategic talent management and organizational development. His role spans the entire spectrum of HR, where he not only ensures regulatory compliance but actively drives recruitment, retention, and employee engagement initiatives tailored to TANDEEN’s dynamic sectors, from construction to solar energy. With a keen focus on aligning HR policies with business growth, James has built a high-performance culture that fuels productivity and empowers employees to reach their full potential. His work in optimizing HR operations, combined with his strategic oversight, has made him a crucial asset in TANDEEN’s commitment to excellence and sustainable development 

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Abdul Raman Turay

Human Resource & Administration Manager, Onlime SL

Abdul Raman Turay, the Human Resource & Administration Manager at Onlime Sierra Leone, is an accomplished HR professional with over a decade in the telecom sector. Known for his expertise in employee relations, talent management, and performance strategy, he fosters a collaborative and growth-focused workplace. Abdul holds a B.Sc. in Business Administration, leveraging his skills to create an inclusive, supportive environment where every team member can succeed. His passion for employee development and strategic HR makes him a trusted advisor to both staff and leadership. 

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Olayinka Williams

Head of Human Resources, SIPCA

Olayinka Williams, Head of Human Resources at SIPCA, is a strategic HR leader with extensive experience in talent development and organizational management. Known for her proactive leadership style, Olayinka excels in aligning HR operations with broader business goals, leveraging her expertise to foster a positive and productive work environment. Her track record includes advancing workplace diversity, enhancing employee engagement, and implementing high-impact HR initiatives that support SIPCA’s growth and resilience. With her substantial background and dedication to cultivating a supportive work culture, Olayinka remains an essential driver of SIPCA’s success in a competitive landscape 

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Tamba Abu

Human Resource Manager, Sierra Leone Postal Service

Tamba Abu is a dynamic and results-driven Human Resources Manager at the Sierra Leone Postal Service (SALPOST), where he strategically leads HR operations to enhance workforce productivity and align staff development with the organisation's strategic vision. With a strong emphasis on employee engagement, performance management, and compliance, Tamba has successfully implemented innovative HR policies that promote a cohesive, efficient, and inclusive work culture. His expertise in talent acquisition, training programs, and policy compliance ensures that SALPOST maintains its competitive edge, driving both operational excellence and service delivery improvements across the nation. 

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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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