BAT Announces Leadership Changes as Two Senior Executives Exit
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British American Tobacco Kenya has announced leadership changes following the departures of two senior executives.
In a notice dated Tuesday, March 3, 2026, the Board of Directors confirmed the departure of Managing Director Chrispin Achola and Finance Director Philemon Kipkemoi as part of the changes.
“The Board of Directors of British American Tobacco Kenya Plc (the ‘Company’) announces the following changes,” read part of the notice.
Chrispin Achola Steps Down as BAT MD
Chrispin Achola will step down as Managing Director, effective June 15, 2026.
According to the Board, Achola, who was appointed in January 2021, has successfully delivered on his mandate and will hand over leadership of the Company to pursue opportunities outside the organisation.
He will continue to support the Company to ensure a smooth and orderly transition during this period.
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The Board described the outgoing Managing Director’s tenure as one marked by strong dedication and strategic leadership.
Bringing over 30 years of cross-market experience and commercial acumen, he was credited with guiding the Company through complex regulatory and market conditions.
Under his leadership, the Company strengthened its operational resilience, reinforced its export franchise, and advanced its strategic agenda to ensure long-term competitiveness and sustainability.
The Board further noted that the Company’s solid share price performance and consistent dividend track record during his tenure reflect disciplined execution and the positive impact of his leadership.
“Through his transformative leadership and commitment to inclusivity, Chrispin leaves a meaningful legacy that will continue to shape the organisation into the future,” the Board stated.
Finance Director Also Exits
The Board also announced that Philemon Kipkemoi will step down as Finance Director with effect from March 30, 2026, to pursue career interests outside the Company following a distinguished 19-year career.
According to the Board, Kipkemoi served the Company with exceptional dedication in various finance leadership roles across East and Southern Africa. He was appointed Finance Director in 2020 and played a key role in driving the Company’s strategic priorities, achieving strong financial results, sustaining shareholder value growth, and building high-performing, multidisciplinary finance teams.
His leadership strengthened financial governance and guided major strategic and transformational initiatives. The Board stated that he leaves the Company well-positioned, with an empowered organisation ready to continue its growth trajectory.
The Board expressed its sincere appreciation to both Achola and Kipkemoi for their leadership, professionalism, dedication, and lasting contributions to the Company, wishing them success in their future endeavours.
New Appointments
At the same time, the Board announced the appointment of several Executive Directors.
Sidney Wafula has been appointed incoming Managing Director, effective June 18, 2026.
Wafula currently serves as Finance Director for the BAT Sub-Saharan Africa Area. His career with BAT began in Kenya in 2006 when he joined as Head of Audit. Over the years, he has held several senior management roles within the BAT Group, including Head of Finance for BAT Egypt (based in Cairo), Head of Finance for BAT Group’s Southern Africa Markets operations (based in Mozambique), Head of Finance for East and Southern Africa, and Finance Director for BAT Kenya.
These assignments have provided him with broad experience in developing business strategy, enhancing financial and operational performance, and leading diverse teams across Sub-Saharan Africa.
He holds a Bachelor of Commerce (Accounting) degree from The Catholic University of Eastern Africa and is a member of the Institute of Certified Public Accountants of Kenya (ICPAK).
Elsewhere, Catherine Chepkonga has been appointed incoming Finance Director, effective April 1, 2026.
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Catherine joined the BAT Group in 2012 and brings extensive multi-market finance leadership experience. She has held several strategic roles, including Head of Finance and Non-Executive Director for Uganda, Finance Controller for the East Africa Market, Head of Finance for the Horn of Africa and Indian Ocean Islands, and, most recently, Finance Controller for East and Southern Africa Markets. She also serves as a Trustee of the BAT Kenya Staff Provident Fund.
She holds an MBA from Durham University Business School (UK) and a Bachelor of Commerce from Strathmore University Business School (Kenya).
She is a member of both the Institute of Chartered Accountants in England and Wales (ICAEW) and the Institute of Certified Public Accountants of Kenya (ICPAK).
“The Board is confident that the orderly transition ensures continuity of leadership and strategic focus,” read the notice.
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Photo of outgoing BAT Managing Director Chrispin Ochola. PHOTO/NMG
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