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DR. JAMES MCFIE
CHAIR SASINI PLC
Dr. James McFie is currently Chair of the Board of Directors of Sasini PLC, having joined the board in 2007. His distinguished chairmanship has propelled Sasini to new heights of excellence within the agribusiness sector, marked by consistent profitability and a commitment to sustainable business practices.
Notably, the company stands as a stalwart in the realm of Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) initiatives, a testament to Dr. McFie’s dedication to fostering responsible and ethical business conduct. Under his astute leadership, Sasini not only thrives financially but also upholds a strong commitment to corporate responsibility and sustainable growth.
Dr. McFie’s academic journey reflects a commitment to excellence and a pursuit of knowledge across prestigious institutions. He attended Oxford University in the United Kingdom (UK), earning both a Bachelor of Arts (BA) and a Master of Arts (MA) degree in Mathematics, showcasing his intellectual prowess on an international stage. Closer to home, at Strathmore College (now Strathmore University), he achieved proficiency in accounting, attaining the esteemed Association of Chartered Certified Accountants (ACCA) qualification.
Further enriching his expertise, Dr. McFie pursued an advanced academic path by earning a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) degree in Accounting from the University of Strathclyde, an institution renowned for its academic rigour and research excellence in Glasgow, Scotland. This comprehensive academic background underscores Dr. McFie’s commitment to continuous learning, positioning him as a highly qualified professional in the field of accounting and academia.
A distinguished Fellow, he holds prestigious memberships in both the ACCA and the Institute of Certified Public Accountants of Kenya (ICPAK).
Renowned for his intellectual prowess, Dr. McFie stands as a prominent figure among the founders of Strathmore University. Currently holding the esteemed position of Director of the School of Accountancy, he also commands respect as a highly regarded lecturer, sharing his expertise in Financial Reporting, Auditing, and Cybercrime. Dr. McFie’s influential presence and impactful contributions have left an indelible mark on Strathmore University, where he has dedicated over 17 years to shaping and enriching the academic landscape.
He is a Member of the Kenya Chapter of Association of Certified Fraud Examiners (ACFE).
Beyond the academic realm, Dr. McFie’s influential roles extend to directorship at The Standard Group, reflecting his expertise in steering corporate governance.
At the forefront of professional excellence, Dr. McFie holds the esteemed position of Chairman of the Registration and Quality Assurance Committee at ICPAK, contributing to the high standards of the accounting profession.
His illustrious career includes a pivotal role as a Director at the Kenya Capital Markets Authority (CMA) between 1993 and 2002, where he also served as a distinguished member of the Kenya Value Added Tax Tribunal.
Dr. McFie’s commitment to governance is further evidenced by his role as a Trustee for both the Kenya Corporate Governance Trust and Jitegemee Trust.
Before gracing the academic halls of Strathmore University, Dr. McFie honed his skills as the Training Manager at Ernst and Young (EY), where he initially qualified as an accountant.
Driven by a fervent commitment to empower the youth through education, Dr. McFie established the Jim McFie Education Fund several years ago. During its active years, the fund facilitated the payment of fees for over 200 students. In addition to this philanthropic initiative, Dr. McFie personally sponsored numerous students through their post-secondary education, embodying his unwavering belief in the transformative power of education.
Beyond financial support, Dr. McFie has played a pivotal role as a mentor to several influential global and local leaders. Among his Kenyan mentees are notable figures such as Joshua Oigara, Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Stanbic Bank, James Mworia, CEO of Centum Investments, Yusuf Omari, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) at Absa Bank Kenya, and many others.
Dr. McFie’s journey stands as a testament not only to his profound expertise but also to his unwavering dedication in shaping the realms of sustainable business, governance, and education. His enduring legacy leaves an indelible mark on the lives of those he has mentored and supported on their paths to leadership. Furthermore, his influence extends to the numerous boards where he has served, contributing valuable insights and expertise.
