#23
EVELYNE N MUNYOKI
DIRECTOR – HUMAN RESOURCES, BRITAM HOLDINGS
“To handle yourself, use your head; to handle others, use your heart.” This timeless quote by Eleanor Roosevelt beautifully captures the leadership philosophy of Evelyne N Munyoki, whose career is defined by a blend of intellectual rigour and emotional intelligence. As a distinguished senior executive, Evelyne has mastered the art of leading with both head and heart – balancing strategic thinking with compassion, empowerment, and integrity.
With over 20 years of leadership experience, Evelyne has established herself as a driving force in executive leadership, organisational transformation, and people development, earning a reputation as one of Kenya’s most influential female C-suite executives. Currently serving as the Director of Human Resources (HR) at Britam Holdings, she spearheads cultural transformation and strategic business initiatives, ensuring the company’s human capital strategy aligns with long-term business goals. Since joining Britam in 2022, Evelyne has been a catalyst for cultural transformation, collaborating closely with the Group CEO to build a high-performance workforce that is both engaged and aligned with the company’s long-term vision.
Her career spans both global and local organisations, including IBM, Cooperative Bank, PricewaterhouseCoopers (PwC), and Ernst & Young (EY). As Chief People Officer at Kenya Airways (KQ), she navigated the airline through one of its most challenging periods – the COVID-19 crisis – balancing organisational needs with employee well-being during an unprecedented time. This experience, along with many others, has shaped her leadership philosophy – one that seamlessly blends strategic decision-making with deep empathy for people.
Evelyne’s secret is simple yet powerful: purpose-driven leadership. She believes that at the core of every thriving business is an unwavering commitment to people. “You do not build a business. You build people, and people build the business,” she often echoes, aligning with Zig Ziglar’s timeless wisdom. This people-first approach has defined her career, fueling her ability to drive impactful transformation while fostering environments where individuals and organisations thrive together. Evelyne’s expertise continues to be a guiding light for professionals navigating the complexities of modern leadership.
As a certified Executive Leadership Coach (CELC) and Global Coaching Index Practitioner, Evelyne has mentored countless professionals, helping them unlock their potential. She champions continuous learning, both for herself and those she leads, recognising that leadership is an evolving journey, not a destination.
Evelyne’s leadership journey is marked by a series of remarkable achievements that highlight her transformational impact in the corporate world. In 2024, she was named HR Director of the Year by the Institute of Human Resource Management (IHRM) in Kenya, a recognition of her exceptional ability to drive organisational culture and people strategy. That same year, she was honoured as a Leader of Distinction at the HR Today CHRO Awards, underscoring her innovative approach to human capital development and the strategic contributions she has made at Britam.
Beyond her corporate role, Evelyne excels in boardroom leadership and governance. She serves as a trustee of the Britam Kenya Pension Scheme and has held a similar role with the Co-op Bank Pension Scheme. Additionally, she is a board member of AMREF Health Africa in Kenya and an active participant in the Women on Boards Network (WOBN). With credentials that include a Senior Certified Professional (SHRM), Certified Executive Leadership Coach (CELC), and Certified Professional Career Coach (CPCC), Evelyne’s commitment to continuous learning and excellence solidifies her reputation as one of the most respected and impactful leaders in her field.
Evelyne is a trailblazer for women in executive leadership, committed to dismantling barriers and amplifying female voices in corporate spaces. “Women belong in all places where decisions are being made,” as Ruth Bader Ginsburg famously said, and Evelyne embodies this truth. Through mentorship and active involvement in women’s leadership networks, she advocates for gender equity in leadership, empowering the next generation of women leaders to rise, thrive, and break ceilings. Her journey is a powerful reminder that leadership is about lifting others as you climb.
Evelyne’s greatest pride lies in her role as a mother. She seamlessly balances executive leadership with family life, faith, and personal growth, embodying the art of harmonising ambition with purpose.
A passionate reader, farmer, and perpetual learner, Evelyne believes that growth is infinite. Her faith remains the cornerstone of her life, guiding her decisions and shaping her values. “Success is not just about reaching the top; it is about how many people you bring with you,” she often reflects, underscoring her deep commitment to service and leadership with integrity and humility.
With an unwavering vision, an indomitable spirit, and a heart for empowerment, Evelyne N Munyoki stands out among the most impactful C-suite executives in 2025.
AUTHOR: BRITAM HOLDINGS
EDITOR: KAREN NDUKU
