Kenyan Mentors - Meet Lina Githuka (BAT’S AREA HEAD OF BRANDS (EAST & CENTRAL AFRICA))

Lina Githuka Holding A young Angel

Lina Githuka joined BAT from Uniliver Kenya as a Group Brand Manager (Eastern Africa) and since then, it has been an exciting experience, one that has continuously stretched her with every role she has undertaken. Later on, she moved to the BAT’s Global Head Office in London as a Senior International Brand Manager, Managing Global Brands. This experience exposed her to marketing in Large Developed Global Markets, dealing with a more discerning consumer who is less price-sensitive and more demanding.

Developing global platforms also empowered her to think strategically. The cultural diversity of the global team was enriching as it brought out different ideas and perspectives to business discussions while valuing each other. Working in London prepared her for her next role; as a Consumer Director, working in BAT South Africa Area. Working in South Africa opened new horizons for her and created the Zeal to work in a large organization with robust structures, processes and matrix environment.

From South Africa, Lina took up the role of Head of Trade Marketing and Distribution for Uganda, Rwanda and Burundi based in Kampala. Months ago, Lina took up her current role as the Area Head of Brands (East & Central Africa). As a member of the Marketing Leadership Team, She contributes to the shaping of the marketing strategy. She is directly responsible for delivering the Brand Marketing Strategy through development and implementation of the portfolio strategy across 17 markets. She is passionate about developing young talent within marketing and the wider organization through coaching and mentoring young managers.

Lina’s Word to The Young Kenyan Talent.

‘My advice to young Kenyan talent who would like to pursue their career in the corporate world is to be passionate about what they do, seize the opportunity and take calculated risks as it can truly be a fulfilling experience. On reflection, it has been an amazing journey which has required passion, hard work, commitment and sometimes compromise’.