Naivas Supermarkets names Andreas von Paleske as new CEO

Naivas Supermarkets has announced a leadership change that will see Andreas von Paleske take over as Chief Executive Officer from David Kimani, effective November 1.

Von Paleske, currently the retail chain’s Chief of Strategy, has been with the company for eight years and is credited with helping shape its expansion strategy during a period of rapid growth.

Under his and Kimani’s joint leadership, Naivas has grown to over 100 stores to become Kenya’s leading retail chain by financials and branch network.

Kimani, a founding member of Naivas, is stepping down after years at the helm, coinciding his exit with the company’s 35th anniversary.

The company said he will, however, continue to play an active role in the business alongside Peter, Charles, and the Mukuha family.

“Having achieved several landmark milestones in the past few years, and with a strong leadership team in place, I could not think of a better opportunity than our 35th anniversary to pass on the baton to Andreas,” Kimani said in a statement on Tuesday.

Naivas International Chairman Arnaud Lagesse praised Kimani’s leadership, calling him a central figure in building one of Kenya’s biggest corporate success stories.

“David’s role in laying the foundations of one of Kenya’s corporate success stories is truly commendable. With Andreas, we have the right leader to take the business to even greater heights. His appointment ensures continuity and positions the company for its next phase of growth,” Lagesse said.