Professional Experience:
I am a global agriculture executive with over 25 years of leadership in sustainable agriculture, regenerative farming, and program management across Africa, North America, and Europe. My career has been defined by designing and scaling operations that balance productivity, profitability, and environmental stewardship, while empowering farming communities and strengthening value chains.
As Vice President of Cultivation at Curio Wellness (USA), I led a $60M multi-site operation with over 200 employees. I implemented lean management systems, automation, and data-driven crop steering that increased yields by 55%, reduced input costs by 60%, and expanded operations by 150,000 sq. ft.. My focus on operational efficiency, team development, and sustainability ensured scalable, high-performing systems that delivered consistent results.
Previously, as Regional CEO for The New Forests Company (Uganda and Kenya), I directed multi-country forestry and agroforestry programs impacting over 3,000 households. I secured $20M in donor funding from Norfund and Finnfund to drive sustainable forestry and outgrower programs. Together with local farmers and NGOs, we restored over 3,000 hectares of degraded land and significantly increased household incomes. I also maintained FSC certification across operations and engaged government and private-sector partners to strengthen market linkages.
During my tenure as General Manager at Harvest Flowers (Kenya), I scaled operations from €10M to €90M in revenue, leading a team of 1,900 employees. I spearheaded greenhouse expansions, rainwater harvesting systems, and worker welfare programs that earned us the Fairtrade award for Best Workers’ Committee in Africa. One of my proudest achievements was planting 30,000 trees in Athi River, a project that improved local ecosystems while engaging workers and their families in environmental stewardship.
At Kitayama Brothers (USA), I modernized production and distribution systems, cut costs by 20%, and built national fulfillment capabilities serving leading e-commerce floral brands. These experiences honed my skills in supply chain optimization, operational scaling, and market-driven strategy.
Throughout my career, I have consistently integrated sustainability and innovation into operations, leveraging technology, process optimization, and partnerships to deliver measurable impact. My leadership extends beyond operations into board and advisory roles, including service with Certified American Grown, CalFlowers, Society of American Florists, and the Agricultural Employers Association of Kenya, where I have contributed to industry policy and advocacy. I was nominated as a commissioner for California cut flowers commission.
I bring a proven track record of building high-performing teams, engaging diverse stakeholders, and managing complex, donor-funded programs. My experience uniquely positions me to drive community-based agricultural transformation, aligning productivity and profitability with environmental and social outcomes.