Andreas von Paleske is an accomplished investment and retail executive with over two decades of experience across Africa, Europe, and global emerging markets. On October 7, 2025, he was officially appointed as the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Naivas Supermarkets, Kenya’s largest retail chain, succeeding David Kimani Mukuha.
Before his appointment, Andreas had been serving as the Chief Strategy Officer (CSO) at Naivas since April 2017, where he played a central role in transforming the company into a corporate powerhouse and establishing its governance and expansion frameworks. His strategic insight and leadership style have positioned Naivas as the benchmark for modern retail success in East Africa.
Educational Background
Andreas holds a Master of Business Administration (MBA) from the Harvard Business School (2003–2005), one of the world’s most prestigious business institutions.
He earned his Bachelor of Science in Economics from the London School of Economics and Political Science (LSE) between 1997 and 2000, equipping him with a strong foundation in economic analysis, financial modeling, and global market dynamics.
His elite academic background has shaped his analytical and leadership approach, blending Western corporate discipline with pragmatic business execution in emerging markets.
Career Journey at Naivas
Since joining Naivas Supermarkets in 2017, Andreas von Paleske has been instrumental in the company’s transformation. As Chief Strategy Officer, he spearheaded critical reforms in corporate governance, financial management, and organizational structure.
Under his leadership, Naivas successfully executed its first external capital transactions, marking a turning point in its corporate evolution. The company attracted strategic investors such as Amethis Private Equity, which later exited in 2022, and the Mauritius-based IBL Group, now a key shareholder in Naivas.
These landmark partnerships helped Naivas consolidate its position as Kenya’s number one supermarket chain, expanding its branch network across major cities and introducing international retail standards in operations, procurement, and customer service.
In August 2022, Andreas joined the Board of Naivas International, the retailer’s holding company, where he continues to oversee regional expansion strategy and corporate governance.
His appointment as CEO in October 2025 reflects both the board’s confidence in his leadership and his deep understanding of the company’s operational DNA.
Previous Career and Global Experience
Before joining Naivas, Andreas built an extensive career in private equity and investment management across Europe and Africa.
He was the Founding Partner of Africa Platform Capital LLP (2016–2017), a boutique private equity firm specializing in consumer and healthcare investments in Sub-Saharan Africa.
From 2013 to 2016, he served as Global Head of Consumer at Actis, one of the world’s leading emerging market investors. During this period, he led investments across Africa, India, China, and Latin America, focusing on high-growth consumer brands and retail companies.
Earlier, Andreas worked for Lion Capital from 2005 to 2013, holding senior roles including Director and Non-Executive Director at several major brands such as Findus Group, Kettle Foods, Ad van Geloven, and Wagamama. His contributions to brand expansion and portfolio management solidified his reputation in consumer investment circles.
He began his career in finance at UBS Investment Bank (2000–2003), where he gained hands-on experience in mergers, acquisitions, and global market strategy.
Beyond his corporate achievements, Andreas has also dedicated time to social initiatives — notably volunteering in 2013 as an advisor to Self-Unlimited (now HFT) through the Cranfield Trust, helping adults with learning disabilities commercialize a small-scale apple juice venture.
Leadership and Vision
As the new Naivas CEO, Andreas von Paleske brings a strategic, international, and forward-looking perspective to Kenya’s retail landscape. His leadership emphasizes innovation, governance, and sustainable growth — ensuring Naivas remains competitive amid growing regional and global retail pressures.
His appointment symbolizes Naivas’ continued transformation into a professionally managed, investor-driven retail institution while preserving its Kenyan roots and customer-first philosophy.
