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MAGDALENE MULANDI
HEAD MARKETING COMMUNICATIONS, SBM BANK KENYA
In the ever-evolving landscape of business, where micro vs macro-pivots are the order of the day, Magdalene Mulandi stands out as a beacon of success. An award-winning luminary with a distinguished portfolio and over 15 years of experience, she excels in crisis communication, corporate communication, merger and acquisition strategies and integrating global brands into local markets. Her ability to navigate turbulent situations and achieve strategic successes makes her a leading authority in corporate communications.
Magdalene is guided by the Latin adage ‘carpe diem’, she approaches each day as an opportunity to make impactful choices. Drawing resilience from a surfer’s mindset, she learns from setbacks to drive innovation and push boundaries in the industry.
Her journey reflects her dedication, resilience, and visionary approach. Notably, she earned a spot among the Top 40 Under 40 Women in 2014 by Business Daily, highlighting her impressive early-career achievements.
As Head of Marketing Communications at SBM (State Bank of Mauritius) Bank Kenya, her role is instrumental in positioning the brand as a leader in responsive banking solutions.
Reflecting on her most challenging moments, communication was crucial to the resurgence efforts during the receivership period of Chase Bank while it was under statutory management (receivership). Having served as the brand custodian for that institution for over a decade, she expertly navigated the complexities by providing clear and transparent progress updates, gaining market trust and acceptance.
Thereafter, SBM entered this market through a quasi-merger and acquisition process, and to-date, Magdalene continues to ensure the communication strategy prioritises transparency and accountability while also recognising and respecting cultural sensitivities. By navigating these challenges, she continues to position SBM Bank Kenya as a trusted and culturally resonant brand.
When asked about what problems keep her up at night, she shares that she is responsible for seeking out unique opportunities to use data responsibly and position the SBM brand optimally, while addressing customer needs effectively. “In the age of artificial intelligence (AI), simply adopting new tech is not enough. I must become a proficient prompt engineer, rather than just using AI as a shiny toy, and pass these skills onto my team so that we leverage this to get ahead because we are not awash with budgets,” Magdalene remarks.
On the inverse, the projects that bring an easy smile to her face are those on the sustainability front due to their force for good impact. She advocates for SBM Bank Kenya’s sustainability initiatives and is currently championing a Turtle Conservancy initiative to protect the rapidly declining numbers of the species that play a crucial part in the biodiversity of the ocean ecosystem for generations to come. “These tiny creatures start off fighting to get to the shoreline, then to survive in the ocean against massive odds. Eventually, they come back to the shoreline to start the circle of life. This is remarkably like how we live as humans, and we have a chance to protect them for a greater good,” Magdalene shares.
Beyond her professional endeavours, she actively engages in community service as a Rotarian, devoting her time and resources to support underprivileged women and youth. Additionally, Magdalene serves as a mentor to young professionals, empowering them to realise their entrepreneurial and leadership potential.
Magdalene Mulandi’s journey exemplifies the fusion of passion, purpose, and excellence in marketing and communications. Her achievements inspire others, leaving an indelible mark as she shapes brand narratives and impacts communities.
Her peers refer to her as the ‘Architect of Brand Stories’ for her considerable influence and contribution to building formidable brand identities.
