Jane Karuku is a distinguished Kenyan businesswoman and corporate leader. In December 2020, she was appointed as the Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of East African Breweries Limited, a prominent company based in Nairobi with operations spanning Kenya, Uganda, South Sudan, and Tanzania.
She began her professional journey at Kenya Co-operative Creameries (KCC) as a management trainee, where she quickly advanced to Brand Manager. In this position, she was responsible for developing and managing product lines, which helped her refine her marketing skills.
Karuku’s journey in breweries
In 2015, Karuku joined Kenya Breweries Ltd (KBL), an East African Breweries Ltd (EABL) subsidiary, as Managing Director. At KBL, she focused on innovation in product development and sustainability initiatives, significantly contributing to the company’s growth.
Her successful tenure at KBL led to her appointment as Group Managing Director and CEO of EABL on January 1, 2021, making her the first Kenyan to hold the position for over a decade.
EABL is a leading alcohol Beverage company in the East African region. The company’s diverse portfolio includes renowned brands such as Tusker, Bell, Serengeti, Senator, Guinness, and Johnnie Walker.
Operating primarily in Kenya, Uganda, and Tanzania, EABL’s product range spans beer, spirits, and adult non-alcoholic drinks, catering to various consumer preferences.
Karuku drives growth and impact at EABL
Karuku has been a vocal advocate for gender equality within the organisation. By 2024, women constituted 45% of EABL’s leadership team, reflecting the company’s commitment to creating an inclusive environment that fosters equal opportunities.
EABL is committed to promoting economic inclusivity and empowering underrepresented groups by integrating them into its supply chain. In the past financial year, the company invested KSh 5.9 billion (about $45.6 million) in businesses owned by youth, women, and persons with disabilities. This investment represents 7.59% of the company’s total supplier base, exceeding the initial target of 6%.
Additionally, the company has made notable strides in environmental conservation by investing in renewable energy sources. They increased the use of renewable energy to 75.49% of its total power consumption, with biomass plants in Nairobi, Kisumu, and Kampala now fully operational.
Jane Karuku has also led EABL in implementing a project to reclaim used spirit bottles. The project has collected over 17 million bottles and employed more than 500 youths in collecting, washing, sorting, and storing.
The company’s revenue grew from KSh85.6 billion ($661 million) in 2021 to KSh124.65 billion ($962.5 million) by the end of the 2024 fiscal year.
Jane Karuku’s leadership marks a significant chapter in the growth and innovation of East Africa’s brewing industry.
