James Nyutu has been appointed as the acting Managing Director of Unga Group, following the departure of Joseph Choge.

This announcement was made by the firm on Wednesday.

Nyutu, who previously served as the finance and ICT director for Unga Group and its subsidiaries, will officially take on his new role on Tuesday.

Nyutu's association with Unga Group began in February 2013, and his extensive experience in the manufacturing industry is seen as a critical asset during this transitional period.

He holds a Master’s in Business Administration from Edinburgh Business School, Heriot-Watt University, and a Bachelor of Commerce from the University of Nairobi.

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Unga Group Chairperson Isabella Ochola-Wilson expressed confidence in Nyutu’s abilities, stating, "He is an accomplished management professional with over 20 years of experience. He will provide strategic oversight of the Group’s operations and general management functions."

She added, "He has extensive experience in the manufacturing industry and a proven track record of success that will be critical in steering Unga during this transition phase."

Joseph Choge, who joined Unga Group in December 2021, left his position on at the end of May.

His departure comes as the company continues to grapple with financial challenges, having posted a net profit of Sh293.48 million in 2021 but experiencing significant losses in subsequent years.

The last financial year ending June 2023 saw Unga Group record a net loss of Sh959.38 million, following a net loss of Sh311.36 million in the preceding period.

The leadership change follows a series of strategic moves by Unga Group aimed at cost-cutting and operational efficiency.

In November 2022, the company restructured its operations, consolidating roles and leading to the departure of key executives, including Andanje Mwairumba, the then-general manager of Unga Limited, and Dickson Jawichre, the general manager of Unga Farm Care. T

This restructuring also placed additional responsibilities on Choge, who had been overseeing two subsidiaries initially managed by other executives.

As Nyutu steps into his new role, the focus remains on stabilising the financial health of Unga Group and steering the company back to profitability.

The board and stakeholders are hopeful that Nyutu’s strategic oversight and industry expertise will guide the company through its current challenges and position it for long-term success.