Unga Group Plc has announced the appointment of James Nyutu as its new Group Managing Director, effective July 1, 2025. Nyutu takes over the role after serving in an acting capacity since June 4, 2024, marking a significant leadership transition for one of East Africa’s oldest and most established food companies.
Nyutu joined Unga Group in 2013 as the Group Finance Director. Over the past decade, he has played a pivotal role in shaping the company’s financial strategy and spearheading its digital transformation. His most recent role as Group Finance and ICT Director saw him lead key initiatives that improved operational efficiency and strategic growth.
“A seasoned management professional, Mr. Nyutu has over 20 years of experience across business strategy, financial management, corporate governance, and information systems,” said Isabella Ochola-Wilson, Chairperson of Unga Group, in a statement announcing the appointment. The Board expressed confidence in Nyutu’s leadership and its alignment with Unga’s long-term strategic goals.
Before joining Unga, Nyutu built his career in the financial services sector, having held various positions at Corporate Insurance, British American Insurance Company, and NAS Airport Services. He holds an MBA from Edinburgh Business School at Heriot-Watt University in the UK, and a Bachelor of Commerce degree from the University of Nairobi. His professional credentials include Certified Public Accountant (CPA-K), Certified Public Secretary, and Certified Information Systems Auditor (CISA), along with membership in the Institute for the Management of Information Systems (IMIS).
Unga Group Plc, headquartered in Nairobi, has been a cornerstone of East Africa’s food and agriculture sector for over 115 years. Listed on the Nairobi Securities Exchange since 1955, the company operates Unga Limited and Unga Farmcare East Africa. Unga Limited manufactures flour products from wheat, maize, and millet, and trades in sugar, rice, pasta, and pulses. Its processing facilities are located in Eldoret and Nairobi.
Nyutu’s appointment is expected to bolster Unga’s strategic direction as it continues to expand its footprint in the regional food and agriculture industry.
