HR Excellence Spotlight: Tanzania’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 Tanzania's Best:

Godfrey Rutasingwa

Director of Human Resources

Godfrey Rutasingwa is a seasoned Human Resources Director and Executive Coach with over 15 years of experience across banking, telecommunications, and NGOs. Known for his expertise in strategic HR management, talent development, and cultural transformation, he has led impactful initiatives in executive coaching, mentorship, and change management. Rutasingwa is passionate about sustainable HR practices, advocating for green HR in East Africa, and has pioneered digital and innovative learning methods, including gamification and social learning. His work has significantly advanced female and youth leadership and strengthened employee engagement and diversity initiatives in the organizations he has served. 

Read Less Read profile

Vivienne Penessis

Human Resources Director at Vodacom Tanzania

Vivienne Penessis is the Human Resources Director at Vodacom Tanzania, a role she has held since November 2018. With over 20 years of experience in HR, she previously served in senior HR roles at Standard Chartered Bank, including Head of HR for Capital Markets in Singapore and various HR leadership positions in Tanzania and Dubai. Her expertise spans HR strategy, talent management, and organizational development across telecommunications and banking sectors. 

Read Less Read profile

Emmanuel Akonaay

People & Culture Enthusiast

Emmanuel Akonaay is a seasoned People & Culture professional, currently serving as the Chief Human Resources Officer at NMB Bank Plc, where he has been part of the HR team for over a decade. With a career spanning roles such as Head of HR Shared Services and Senior Manager of HR Shared Services, Emmanuel has extensive experience in employee engagement, talent management, and HR operations. His previous roles include Country Head of HR at Ernst & Young and positions at Serengeti Breweries, Barclays Bank Tanzania, and Bulyanhulu Gold Mine. Emmanuel is based in Dar es Salaam and is known for his dedication to fostering a positive organizational culture. 

Read Less Read profile

Lilian Makau

Head of Human Resources at Standard Chartered Bank

Lilian Makau, is the Head of Human Resources at Standard Chartered Bank in Tanzania, a role she has held since October 2019. With extensive experience in HR, Lilian has a strong background in the manufacturing and banking industries. She specializes in HR strategy, management, succession planning, organizational development, and recruitment. Previously, she co-founded Amlid Professional Consultants, where she served as Partner. Lilian is recognized for her strategic leadership and expertise in business development within HR. 

Read Less Read profile

Nancy Mukoyogo

Head of Human Resources at Tanga Cement Plc

Nancy Mukoyogo is the Head of Human Resources at Tanga Cement Plc. in Tanzania, a position she has held since July 2022. With nearly a decade of experience in people practice, Nancy is passionate about fostering personal and professional fulfillment alongside driving organizational performance. Her expertise spans talent management, people management, and strategic HR practices. 

Read Less Read profile

Thadeus Mkenda

Acting Head of Human Resources at Exim Bank Tanzania

Thadeus Mkenda is the Acting Head of Human Resources at Exim Bank Tanzania, bringing extensive expertise in human capital strategy, HR transformation, and change management. With experience in both local and international private organizations, he is skilled in talent management, succession planning, and fostering a workplace culture that values people. Prior to Exim Bank, Thadeus served as HR Manager at Deloitte East Africa and Head of Human Capital Management at United Bank for Africa (Tanzania), gaining over a decade of experience in strategic HR roles in Dar es Salaam. 

Read Less Read profile

Charles Francis Masubi

Head of Human Resources at AngloGold Ashanti’s Geita Gold Mine

Charles Francis Masubi is the Head of Human Resources at AngloGold Ashanti’s Geita Gold Mine, a role he has held since July 2014. With over 12 years at the company, including previous experience as HR Operations Manager, Charles is known for his reliability, competence, and meticulous approach. He is passionate about fostering an environment where employees can reach their full potential to achieve both personal and business goals. Charles is dedicated to building supportive and collaborative workplace culture, embodying the belief that “it's people who make the difference. 

Read Less Read profile

Rabina Masanja-Rienks

People & Culture executive leader

Rabina Masanja-Rienks is a seasoned People & Culture executive leader with extensive experience in HR within large, complex organizations. She brings strategic insight and a strong commercial focus, with expertise in Financial Services and FMCG. Known for her collaborative and client-focused approach, Rabina excels at solving strategic business challenges and leading high-performing, multi-geographic teams. Her strengths in strategic thinking, adaptability, and team development drive her success in dynamic environments. Outside of work, she enjoys traveling, art, and cultural exploration, and is a dedicated wife and mother. 

Read Less Read profile

Conrad Edward Msoma

HR Director at Serengeti Breweries Limited

Conrad Edward Msoma is the HR Director at Serengeti Breweries Limited, bringing over 10 years of senior-level experience in HR, learning and development, and organizational effectiveness. Known for his strategic approach, Conrad excels in designing HR initiatives that drive growth and streamline processes at both local and international levels. A creative problem solver and decision-maker, he effectively balances employee needs with organizational goals. With strong skills in mentoring, negotiation, and interpersonal relations, Conrad is passionate about strategic leadership and talent development to foster a resilient and agile organization. 

Read Less Read profile

Kindo Marealle

Country Head of Human Capital at BancABC Tanzania (Atlasmara)

Kindo Marealle, Country Head of Human Capital at BancABC Tanzania (Atlasmara), has over 10 years in HR, primarily in banking. He established HR functions at Deloitte Consulting and BancABC, led a microfinance portfolio of TZS 90 billion+, and helped turn BancABC's performance from a TZS 36bn loss to breakeven in one year. Known for supporting employee advocacy, he pioneered BancABC’s Graduate Trainee Program and led executive recruitment to strengthen the bank’s success. 

Read Less Read profile

Erica William Mboya

Head of Human Resources at I&M Bank Ltd

Erica William Mboya, SHRM-SCP, is the Head of Human Resources at I&M Bank Ltd, bringing over a decade of experience in the banking sector. A strategic and results-driven HR leader, she excels in culture transformation and employee engagement. At I&M Bank, Erica collaborates with senior leadership to align HR strategies with business goals, fostering a positive and productive work environment. She is passionate about talent development, employee experience, and building a high-performance culture through data-driven insights and change management. Her SHRM-SCP certification underscores her expertise and dedication to the HR profession.

Read Less Read profile

Zahoro Kaguo

Seasoned HR professional at Eco Bank Tanzania

Zahoro Kaguo is a seasoned HR professional with extensive experience in strategic HR management, learning and development, performance management, and talent management. Currently the Head of Human Resources at Ecobank Tanzania since May 2020, Zahoro has previously held a similar leadership role at KCB Bank Group in Burundi. Known for his motivational speaking and strong business partnership skills, he brings a strategic perspective to HR, fostering growth and development within organizations. 

Read Less Read profile

Mbarikiwa Y. Masinga

Director of Human Resource Management and Administration at Tanzania Ports Authority

Mbarikiwa Y. Masinga is the Director of Human Resource Management and Administration at Tanzania Ports Authority, bringing extensive expertise in HR strategy, employee relations, and organizational development. With a strong background in managing HR operations and fostering effective workplace policies, Mbarikiwa is dedicated to optimizing talent management and administrative functions to drive organizational success. 

 

Read Less Read profile

Hassan G. Dewji

People Director at MeTL Group

Hassan G. Dewji is the People Director at MeTL Group, bringing over 16 years of HR leadership experience in a large family-run firm. A Fellow of the Chartered Institute of Personnel Development (FCIPD) and an Associate Certified Coach with the International Coaching Federation (ICF), he focuses on building systems that enhance organizational culture, employee engagement, and career development. Passionate about mental wellness and personal growth, Hassan launched "Elevate with Hassan" in 2023, a coaching platform aimed at empowering entrepreneurs and young professionals. A lifelong learner, he is also pursuing a Doctorate in Management, specializing in family businesses, to further contribute as an educator and consultant. 

Read Less Read profile

Amelye Nyembe-Kariuki

Head of People, Organisation, and Development at Helios Towers Tanzania

Amelye Nyembe-Kariuki is the Head of People, Organisation, and Development at Helios Towers Tanzania with extensive experience in HR within the oil and gas industry. She specializes in compensation and benefits, strategic HR planning, organizational development, restructuring, and talent acquisition. Known for her integrity, Amelye holds a Postgraduate and Master’s degree in Strategic HR and Corporate Management from the University of Cape Town and Mzumbe University. 

Read Less Read profile

Emmanuel Christopher

Head of Human Resources at Wilmar International Tanzania

Emmanuel Christopher is the Head of Human Resources at Wilmar International Tanzania, bringing over 14 years of HR expertise. With three years leading HR and Administration across six Wilmar International companies, he previously served as Labour Relations Manager for ABInBev’s East Africa Business Unit, covering Tanzania, Kenya, Uganda, and South Sudan. He has also held roles as Senior HR Business Partner at Tanzania Breweries Ltd. Emmanuel’s strengths lie in industrial and employee relations, performance management, talent development, and employee engagement. Known for his adaptability, he thrives in multicultural, competitive environments. 

 

Read Less Read profile

Makoye Ngofillo

Head of Human Resources at Equity Bank Tanzania

Makoye Ngofillo is the Head of Human Resources at Equity Bank Tanzania, a role he has held since May 2020. With extensive experience in HR management, he brings a strategic approach to aligning HR functions with business objectives. Known for his leadership skills, Makoye effectively manages and motivates teams to meet organizational goals. Previously, he served as Head of HR at DTB Tanzania, contributing to his comprehensive expertise in HRM and business operations. Based in Dar es Salaam, he is skilled at both independent and collaborative work. 

Read Less Read profile

Pamela Kieti

Head of Human Resources at Bank of Africa Tanzania

Pamela Kieti is the Head of Human Resources at Bank of Africa Tanzania, bringing extensive expertise in performance management, strategy development, talent management, team leadership, employee relations, and change management. She holds an MBA and a BA in Education from the University of Dar es Salaam. Pamela has further enriched her leadership skills through programs such as Investment in Excellence (PTY LTD, SA), Barclays HR Academy (Nairobi), IgniteHer Women in Leadership Academy, and Agile Banking (Cornerstone Performance Solution, South Africa)

Read Less Read profile

Patrick Foya

Human Resource Director at Absa Tanzania

Patrick Foya is the Human Resource Director at Absa Tanzania, leading strategic and operational HR functions and talent development. With over 17 years of experience across multiple multinationals, he is a Professional Certified Coach (PCC) by The Talent Solution. His expertise includes performance management, coaching, change management, and compensation design. A passionate advocate for employee development, Patrick also serves as a board member of the Association of Tanzania Employers (ATE) and actively promotes workplace wellness and HIV/AIDS initiatives. He is experienced in public speaking, training, and consulting on HR and management. 

Read Less Read profile

Bernard Mshana

Head of HR Operations & Governance at NBC Limited

Bernard Mshana,  is the Head of HR Operations & Governance at NBC Limited. With extensive experience in human resources management, he specializes in recruitment, HR planning, training and development, performance management, and strategic HR management. Bernard has a proven track record working with international organizations across various sectors, including banking, mining, and INGOs. 

Read Less Read profile

Anna Linza

Head of HR at Watu Credit

Anna Linza is the Head of HR at Watu Credit in Tanzania, bringing over three years of experience in human resources management. With a strong background in recruitment, workforce planning, performance management, and labor relations (ELRA), she effectively supports both managerial and non-managerial staff. Known for her adaptability and dedication, Anna is skilled in succession planning, compensation, and more, making her a valuable asset in HR leadership. 

Read Less Read profile

Caroline Kavishe

Chief HR Officer at Tigo Tanzania

Caroline Kavishe is the Chief HR Officer at Tigo Tanzania, where she leads the company's human resources strategy. With extensive experience in HR management, Caroline focuses on talent acquisition, employee engagement, and organizational development. She is known for driving initiatives that enhance workplace culture and align HR practices with business goals, fostering a motivated and high-performing workforce at Tigo Tanzania. 

Read Less Read profile

Simon Luoga

Head of Human Resources at Diamond Trust Bank Tanzania PLC

Simon Luoga is an experienced HR professional with over 18 years in human resources management. Currently, he is the Head of Human Resources at Diamond Trust Bank Tanzania PLC, a position he has held since November 2020. With a strong commitment to enhancing employee experience and supporting organizational goals, Simon has a proven track record in leading HR functions that align with business objectives. Previously, he served as Head of Human Resources at Mkombozi Commercial Bank Plc for over four years. Simon is dedicated to making DTB a model for exemplary people management in the region. 

Read Less Read profile

Fauqiya Shareef

Head of Human Resource at KCB Bank Tanzania

Fauqiya Shareef is a senior HR professional with over 10years progressive experience in Human Resources Management and Gender & youth development consultant. She is a strategic and innovative HR Executive who translates business vision into HR initiatives that improve performance, profitability, growth, and employee engagement. She joined KCB Bank as Head of Human Resources in December 2017. 

Fauqiya holds a Bachelor of Science in Mineral Processing Engineering from University of Dares Salaam College of Engineering) and masters in Human Resource Management from Open University Tanzania. 

Read Less Read profile

Priscilya Othman

Head of Talent, Leadership, and Learning at NBC Tanzania

Priscilya Othman is the Head of Talent, Leadership, and Learning at NBC Tanzania, with around seven years of HR experience. Known for her proactive approach to addressing HR and business support issues, she specializes in talent acquisition, workforce planning, organizational development, and project management. Previously, she served as Resourcing Lead and HR Business Partner at NBC Tanzania, gaining expertise in structure optimization and business partnering. Priscilya leads talent management and leadership initiatives to support the organization’s strategy, leveraging her strong background in consultancy and people-focused projects. 

Read Less Read profile

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?

Join our exclusive video series, Cracking the “HR Excellence” Code, and transform your approach to HR leadership. By signing up, you’ll receive three insightful videos each week, carefully crafted to guide you step-by-step through the core mindsets that set outstanding HR leaders apart.

Don’t miss this opportunity to redefine your career—one mindset at a time.

Watch the introduction below and discover the first step to fully unlocking your HR leadership potential!

Ready to Go Deeper?
Uncover the First Game-Changing Mindset Today!

Get the next episode of Cracking the 'HR Excellence Code' delivered straight to your inbox every Monday, Wednesday, and Friday—fueling your journey to HR mastery with insights that matter.

Take the next step

Join our upcoming webinar for fresh strategies to drive HR excellence and impact!