#10
BENSON OKUMU
MD, BATA KENYA
Benson Okumu’s journey to becoming Managing Director (MD) of Bata Kenya is a testament to his commitment to excellence, human-centric leadership, and community impact.
With over 26 years of experience across multiple countries and sectors, including fast-moving consumer goods (FMCG), financial services, and consumer products, Benson has continuously successfully navigated complex challenges and delivered impressive results.
His career commenced at American International Group (AIG), and he went on to join and hold various key positions at renowned organisations like Mars Wrigley, Nestlé, and Bata. Each role allowed him to hone his financial acumen, strategic thinking and operational expertise, culminating in a series of significant achievements.
For instance, as Finance Director, Benson was instrumental in re-engineering Bata South Africa PLC into one of the most successful operational models and business units. Further, as MD of Bata Shoe PLC Zambia, he drove the company’s growth strategy, achieving record profitability and enhancing operational efficiency.
Upon his appointment as MD of Bata Kenya in December 2022, Benson was already renowned for his turnaround capabilities. In his first year, he achieved over 20 percent top-line growth, demonstrating his ability to implement robust strategies and foster collaboration within his team.
Benson regards leadership as a continuous commitment to nurturing others, prioritising an inclusive environment where team members feel valued and motivated to excel. He believes true empowerment lies in supporting his team to reach their full potential. This belief is evident in his active engagement with employees, customers, and suppliers, fostering transparent communication and relationships that encourage feedback and collaboration. By focusing on both business growth and the personal development of his team, Benson cultivates a culture of innovation, accountability, and sustained success. Since taking the helm at Bata Kenya he has introduced several initiatives aimed at delivering innovative, competitively priced products while enhancing customer satisfaction.
Benson has consistently led Bata Kenya’s community engagement efforts, driving a range of impactful Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiatives under the company’s banner. Notably, he led a KES 1 million donation to SOS Children’s Villages, which included mentorship programs and job shadowing opportunities aimed at nurturing the skills of vulnerable youth. In response to the Mai Mahiu tragedy, Benson organised a company-led donation exceeding KES 1 million in food and clothing to support those affected.
Through the company, Benson has also championed education initiatives, such as providing 1,538 pairs of school shoes and sanitary towels to all the girls at Mathare North Primary School, ensuring students have the necessary resources to attend school with dignity. This support extended further to the Soila Maasai girls, providing food, sanitary towels, and mentorship programs, reflecting a strong commitment to empowering young women.
Recently, under Benson’s leadership, Bata Kenya responded to the needs of Bradley Mallongo, famously known as “Goliath wa Gen-Z” due to his height of 8’2”. The company provided Bradley with his first-ever pair of closed shoes, which also marked the largest shoe ever produced by Bata Kenya.
Away from Bata Kenya, Benson’s personal deep-seated passion for environmental preservation and sustainability is exemplified by his commitment to agroforestry. He proudly owns one of the largest man-made forests in Nyanza, focusing on eucalyptus grandis. This passion project provides valuable short-term employment opportunities for the local community during peak seasons. Through this initiative, Benson actively promotes the importance of tree planting, showcasing his dedication to nurturing both the earth and the people who inhabit it. His perspective is clear: “Sustainability is not just a buzzword; it is a responsibility.”
Benson is an accountant by profession and holds a Masters of Business Administration (MBA) degree.
Outside of work, Benson enjoys listening to business audiobooks, indulging in music, and deejaying. He finds balance in the tranquillity of the beach, often reflecting on his experiences while savouring a single malt whisky. An animal lover, he shares his home with two German Shepherds and four Japanese Spitz, who bring joy and companionship to his life.
Benson Okumu embodies the essence of an effective CEO and remarkable leader. His journey is not just about climbing the corporate ladder but rather about making a meaningful impact on individuals, organisations, and communities. As he often quotes, “To lead is to serve,” a reminder that the true essence of leadership lies in uplifting others while pursuing collective success.
AUTHOR: KAREN NDUKU
EDITOR: HANS ARDEN
