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RITA KAVASHE, MBS
CHAIR BAT KENYA
Nationally acclaimed Automotive Industry Captain, Rita Kavashe, took on the role of Chair of the Board of Directors of British American Tobacco (BAT) Kenya in 2020.
BAT, a local and global multi-category consumer goods business established in 1907, has witnessed a notable shift under Rita’s leadership. Recognising the paramount importance of upholding high integrity standards and fulfilling societal responsibilities, Rita’s chairmanship is playing a pivotal role in driving BAT’s commitment to business sustainability and ‘Building A Better Tomorrow’ for all stakeholders.
The company has undertaken a comprehensive journey towards business sustainability, extending its commitment to health impact mitigation. BAT is actively promoting the transition to scientifically substantiated alternatives, including tobacco-free oral nicotine pouches. Rita’s influence is evident in the shaping of BAT’s multicategory product portfolio, which aligns with evolving preferences and emphasises the company’s dedication to harm reduction in tobacco consumption.
As Managing Director (MD) of Isuzu East Africa since July 2017, Rita brings to the table a dynamic blend of energy, self-drive, and innovation. Recognised for her transformational leadership, she places a strong emphasis on customer satisfaction, ensuring competitive products and services.
Under her stewardship, Isuzu East Africa has witnessed groundbreaking achievements, including the first successful franchise negotiations in four decades, and a seamless transition from General Motors (GM) to Isuzu. Notably, Rita’s strategic direction is contributing to robust year-on-year (YOY) growth in volume, revenue, and market share, positioning Isuzu East Africa as one of the best-performing units globally. Despite market challenges, Isuzu, under Rita’s leadership prowess, has exceeded set market share targets, currently leading with an impressive 35 percent. Moreover, Rita has strengthened dealer and shareholder relations to an all-time high, reflecting her commitment to driving success on multiple fronts.
Prior to her tenure at Isuzu, Rita served as the MD at GM East Africa from April 2011 to July 2017. Under her adept leadership, the company achieved the highest employee engagement globally, marked by an impressive score of 75 percent. She played a pivotal role in elevating dealer and shareholder relations to an unprecedented level. Rita’s excellence was recognised through notable accolades within the GM International framework, including the ‘Most Improved Plant in Energy Performance’ in 2014 and ‘Best Energy Performance Improvement’ in 2015, highlighting her significant contributions to the company’s success.
In her role as Export Director for sub-Saharan Africa (SSA) at GM South Africa between 2011 and 2013, Rita established the GM SSA export office in South Africa, and harmonised operations across all 37 SSA markets, enhancing market presence. These strategic initiatives reflected her dedication to driving growth and efficiency within GM South Africa, solidifying her influence in regional operations.
Worth noting is Rita’s early experience at GM East Africa, where she commenced as a Sales Manager in 1995, steadily progressing through diverse roles over the years. Her remarkable achievements continued, earning her the prestigious ‘Silver Award’ from General Motors Corporation in 2007 for outstanding excellence in sales growth and market share. This recognition led to a special invitation from the President of General Motors Corporation to attend a leadership conference in Florida, USA, in 2008. Rita’s accolades showcase her exceptional performance and leadership prowess on a global scale, rightfully earning her the title as the Captain of the Automotive Industry.
Rita holds a distinguished portfolio of current and past board positions. She is a Member of various influential boards, including Bamburi Cement, University of Eldoret Endowment Trust, and Vision 2030. Rita also contributes her expertise to the advisory board of the Kenya Private Sector Alliance (KEPSA). Her past appointments include roles such as Chair of the Kenya Roads Board, Chair of the Kenya Motor Industry (KMI), Vice Chair of KEPSA, and Trustee of the National Road Safety Trust, among numerous other influential positions, reflecting her commitment to various sectors and causes over the years.
Her educational journey is a testament to her unwavering commitment to both business acumen and academic excellence. Following the completion of her O-Level High School Certificate at Butere Girls’ High School, Rita went on to earn a Bachelor of Education (BEd) degree from Moi University. Building on this foundation, she pursued and obtained a Master of Business Administration (MBA) degree from the University of Nairobi (UoN), further honing her skills in strategic management and leadership.
Passionate about mentorship, Rita has dedicated herself to guiding young girls and women from various backgrounds. In November 2018, she elevated her coaching expertise by earning certification as an Executive Coach from the Academy of Executive Coaches (AOEC) UK, strengthening her ability to coach corporate leaders and executives.
Jamhuri Day 2017 witnessed Rita receive the Moran of the Order of the Burning Spear (MBS) award from President Uhuru Kenyatta, acknowledging her exemplary service to the country in her role as a distinguished business leader.
