NAIROBI, Kenya — Williamson Tea Kenya and Kapchorua Tea Kenya have announced that Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer Alan Carmichael will retire on March 31, 2026, ending an 18-year tenure at the helm of the tea producer.
The boards of the two companies said Carmichael, who has served as CEO since February 2008, will step down from executive duties but remain within the group as a non-executive director to support leadership transition and continuity.
To succeed him, the boards appointed Group Chief Financial Officer Angus Nyariki Omete as Managing Director and CEO effective April 1, 2026.
The appointment signals an internal succession plan aimed at maintaining operational stability across the tea estates and export operations.
Carmichael’s tenure saw the company navigate volatile global tea prices, currency fluctuations, and rising production costs, while maintaining its position among Kenya’s major tea exporters.
His leadership also coincided with increased focus on sustainability, value addition, and diversification within the group’s agricultural operations.
The elevation of Omete from the finance role places emphasis on continuity in strategy and financial discipline.
Analysts say internal promotions typically help listed agricultural firms maintain investor confidence, especially during leadership transitions in export-driven sectors such as tea.
Williamson Tea Kenya and Kapchorua Tea Kenya operate large-scale tea estates in Kenya’s Rift Valley and supply black tea to global markets.
The leadership change comes as the sector faces pressure from climate variability, input costs, and shifting demand patterns in key export destinations.
The companies did not indicate any changes to their current strategy, suggesting the transition will focus on continuity while strengthening operational efficiency and market positioning.
