MARTIN OCHIEN’G
GROUP MANAGING DIRECTOR & CEO, SASINI PLC
Having led some of the most recognised companies across multiple continents, Martin Ochieng’s journey to becoming an effective CEO is one marked by resilience, strategic insight, and a genuine passion for developing people. His story showcases a leader who drives business growth, doing so with a human-centric approach that transforms industries and inspires those around him.
From an early age, Martin embraced the values of hard work, humility, and community – principles that have consistently shaped his career. He graduated from Moi University with a First Class Honours Bachelor of Science (BSc) degree, and later pursued a Master of Business Administration (MBA) postgraduate degree at Oxford Brookes University in the UK. As Martin often reflects, “Education shapes not just what we know but how we think,” underscoring his belief that continuous learning is vital for any leader aiming to remain relevant.
Martin began his career as a Medical Sales Representative at 3M Health Care, Kenya, where he developed foundational skills in general management, marketing, and sales. Rising through the ranks, he later joined Pfizer Inc., serving as General Manager for Pfizer Consumer Healthcare in East Africa. His leadership expanded across sub-Saharan Africa (SSA) and the Middle East, where he excelled in marketing and healthcare divisions, enhancing regional strategies and operations over a decade.
In the mid years of his career, Martin became Head of Global Marketing at KWV International, a South African wine and spirits producer/marketer and exporter. Here, he led aggressive growth initiatives, focusing on innovation and global business strategy, driving the company’s brand presence. He later joined Tyco/ADT, rising to Managing Director (MD) of Tyco Commercial in South Africa, where he prioritised organic growth and operational improvements. His strategic vision propelled the company toward long-term success.
Martin then served as Chief Executive of GHM Group, a consultancy firm, steering its expansion and cultivating key client relationships. Upon returning to Kenya, he became MD at SGA Security, where he redefined the company’s strategic vision, aligning teams and setting long-term growth strategies in collaboration with the Board, significantly enhancing overall performance.
It is Martin’s role as Group MD and CEO at Sasini PLC that stands as a defining moment in his leadership legacy. When he took the helm, Sasini, one of Kenya’s largest agribusinesses, was at a crucial juncture, requiring a visionary leader capable of navigating the volatile agricultural sector while steering the company toward sustainable growth. Martin’s strategy was clear: to drive innovation while placing a strong emphasis on the well-being of Sasini’s people and the surrounding community. His leadership led to the successful launch of the avocado and macadamia units, which have continued to propel the company’s strong growth in both top and profit lines.
At the core of Martin’s leadership is a commitment to empathy, inclusivity, and fostering strong relationships with employees, customers, and suppliers. He ensures that every stakeholder feels heard and respected, creating an environment where trust, open communication, and support thrive. As an example, this human-centric approach is reflected in his emphasis on staff development, health, and safety, which has cultivated a positive workplace culture that empowers employees and encourages collaboration and innovation. For Martin, success goes beyond financial achievements; it is about building a thriving, motivated workforce that drives sustainable growth.
Under Martin’s stewardship, Sasini has integrated Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) principles into its core operations, advancing nine of the 17 UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). His leadership champions a ‘triple bottom line’ approach – people, planet, and profit – leading to notable advancements in product diversification, resource mobilisation, and strategic partnerships. These efforts not only enhance shareholder value but also have a positive, lasting impact on the environment and local communities.
Martin’s passion for sustainability and ethical business practices is further illuminated by his role as Chair of the Board of the Global Compact Network Kenya, the Kenyan arm of the United Nations Global Compact. As Chair, he drives efforts to align businesses with ethical practices centred on Human Rights, Labour, Environment, and Anti-Corruption. Under his leadership, Global Compact Network Kenya has grown in stature to over 300 private sector signatories, with over 800 companies committed to a common Code of Ethics. Through this platform, Martin champions corporate sustainability in Kenya and across Africa, more so through his role in the African Business Leaders Coalition (ABLC), where he advocates for sustainable growth, climate action, and development across the continent.
In addition to his global work, Martin is a Board Member at the Kenya Association of Manufacturers (KAM), where he chairs the Environment and Sustainability Committee. He has previously held various board memberships, including with Tyco SA and SGA Kenya. His participation in leadership councils like the Pfizer Global Innovators Circle and the Tyco Global Communication Council highlights Martin’s role as a thought leader who is constantly pushing the boundaries of what is possible in business.
Beyond the boardroom, Martin is a devoted family man who values balance. His hobbies, which include running and reading business literature, reflect his desire for continuous personal growth and well-being. Martin additionally plays golf and occasionally deejays to unwind. His passion for philanthropy and community integration is another facet of his belief that leadership is not confined to corporate responsibilities but should also uplift the people around him.
In Martin’s words, “Leadership is about creating a legacy that uplifts the people around you while driving meaningful change.” This is the essence of his leadership – a legacy that will undoubtedly endure.
AUTHOR: KAREN NDUKU
EDITOR: MARTIN O’NEIL
