NAIROBI, Kenya — Dalmas Odero has been re-elected as National Chairman of the Institute of Human Resource Management (IHRM) for a second three-year term, extending his leadership at the statutory body responsible for regulating HR practice in Kenya.
Odero first took office in July 2022, succeeding Joseph Vincent Onyango.
During his first term, he advanced reforms under the Human Resource Management Professionals (HRMP) Act, aiming to clarify IHRM’s regulatory mandate and strengthen accountability mechanisms.
“This is not my victory alone; it is a victory for every HR professional who believes in a stronger, more respected, and future-ready profession,”said Odero in his acceptance speech.
He outlined a strategic agenda centered on four key areas: professionalism, membership engagement, advocacy, and execution.
Likewise,Odero highlighted priorities such as advancing ethics, certification, and capacity to respond to emerging workplace challenges including artificial intelligence, hybrid work models, and diversity and inclusion.
Currently, IHRM has more than 20,000 registered members, but only around 7,000 actively participate in institute activities.
“Therefore, every member of this particular profession for purposes of growth, we must be able to practise as members of the Institute of Human Resources and members who are respected, members who are paid up and members who will be able to relay their voice on matters HR.”
He also confirmed that discussions regarding the College of Human Resource Management (CHRM) are ongoing, adding that the institute is committed to resolving disputes while maintaining regulatory standards.
Executive Director Kuresha Abdullahi emphasized the regulated nature of HR practice in Kenya, stating; “HR is now a strategic role, it’s no longer where it was. You must get the best, which we have within our database.”
Odero’s second term begins as the institute prepares to implement legislative amendments and strengthen oversight, with a focus on professional standards, member participation, and workforce planning across Kenya’s public and private sectors.
