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CATHERINE NGANGA
CFO – JUBILEE LIFE INSURANCE
As Chief Financial Officer (CFO) of Jubilee Life Insurance, Catherine Nganga stands as a formidable figure in the C-suite, exemplifying leadership, innovation, and strategic acumen.
Catherine is at the helm of financial operations for Jubilee’s Life and Pensions segment, a role she has held since September 2018. Her expertise spans across negotiation, problem-solving, financial management, and strategic planning, making her an invaluable asset to the organisation. Under her stewardship, Jubilee Life Insurance has continued to thrive, demonstrating resilience and adaptability in a competitive market.
As the chief custodian of Jubilee Life’s financial health, Catherine oversees a broad spectrum of responsibilities, including financial reporting, accounting, and financial operations. Her meticulous attention to detail and commitment to accuracy are vital in managing the company’s extensive financial landscape.
Notably, Jubilee Life’s revenues and contributions grew by 23 percent by the end of 2023, reaching KES 17.3 billion, up from KES 14.1 billion over the five-year period. This growth was significantly propelled by a 22 percent increase in new regular business, thanks to the successful implementation of distribution strategies in bancassurance and agency.
Catherine began her professional journey as an intern at Corporate Insurance Company, where she gradually advanced to the role of Chief Accountant over 11 years. During this period, she honed her skills in financial management and reporting, developing a sharp eye for detail and a strong aptitude for leadership, which became key attributes in her subsequent roles.
In December 2012, she joined the Jubilee Insurance Company of Kenya as Chief Accountant – Treasury, where she managed the company’s cash flow and led the treasury team. This role marked her first major foray into the insurance industry, setting the stage for her future achievements.
In March 2014, Catherine’s career took her to Burundi, where she served as CFO at the Jubilee Insurance Company of Burundi S.A. Here, she was responsible for the finance function, preparing monthly reports for Jubilee Holdings, and overseeing the annual budget. Her role also included mentoring the Finance Manager, showcasing her commitment to developing talent within the organisation. This international experience broadened her perspective and deepened her understanding of the financial sector across different markets.
Returning to Kenya in March 2015, Catherine took on the role of Chief Accountant at Jubilee Holdings, where she was instrumental in preparing consolidated management reports and ensuring statutory compliance. Her leadership during this period was marked by a focus on accurate financial reporting and efficient audit processes.
In October 2021, she briefly served as Acting Principal Officer at Jubilee Life Insurance, demonstrating her versatility and capacity for leadership across various aspects of the business.
Catherine holds a Bachelor of Commerce (BCom) degree in Accounting and Business/Management from Daystar University. She further enhanced her qualifications with a Master of Business Administration (MBA) degree in Strategic Management from the United States International University – Africa (USIU-A), a credential that has equipped her with strategic insights crucial for navigating complex business environments. Additionally, she earned an International Certificate Risk Management from the Institute of Risk Management (IRM), further cementing her expertise in managing enterprise risk.
Beyond her professional roles, Catherine is passionate about making a positive impact on society. Her commitment to corporate social responsibility (CSR) is evident through her involvement in various initiatives, including the launch of Jubilee’s annual CSR flagship program. She also represents the company in official matters convened by industry regulators, ensuring that Jubilee remains compliant and ethically grounded.
As a transformational leader, Catherine continues to inspire her colleagues and the broader community with her unwavering dedication to delivering value and driving positive change. Her story is a testament to the power of hard work, continuous learning, and a commitment to making a difference.
