Crown Paints Kenya Plc has announced the appointment of Mustafa Turra as the new Group Chief Executive Officer (CEO), effective October 1, 2025. This marks a significant leadership transition for the company as it moves into its next phase of growth and innovation. The announcement was made by Conrad Nyukuri, the Company Secretary, in a notice published on September 29, 2025.
Mustafa Turra’s Appointment
Turra’s appointment signals a new direction for Crown Paints, a leading player in the East African paint industry. The Crown Paints Board expressed confidence in his ability to lead the company, highlighting his global outlook, business transformation experience, and strategic acumen as key factors that will drive the company to greater heights.
In a statement, the Board said, “With his global perspective and proven track record in profitable growth, Mr. Turra is poised to lead Crown Paints into its next phase of innovation and reinforce its position as the region’s leading brand.”
Mustafa Turra’s Profile
Mustafa Turra comes to Crown Paints from Olam Agri Nigeria, where he served as the Business Head and Vice President of Soy Crush Integrated Feed & Protein. In this role, Turra managed the largest feed business in Sub-Saharan Africa, overseeing operations in over 10 countries. His leadership in fast-paced manufacturing and distribution sectors has earned him a reputation for driving business performance.
With over 20 years of international leadership experience, Turra has worked across India, the Middle East, Africa, the Caribbean, and South Asia. He holds an MBA in Strategic Management and Marketing from XLRI Jamshedpur and a Bachelor of Technology in Electrical Engineering from Jamia Millia Islamia, New Delhi.
Tribute to Outgoing CEO Dr. Rakesh Rao
The announcement of Mustafa Turra’s appointment comes as the company bids farewell to Dr. Rakesh Rao, the outgoing CEO. Dr. Rao, who joined Crown Paints in 2005, has been instrumental in the company’s growth, including transforming it into a Nairobi Securities Exchange (NSE)-listed brand. Under his leadership, Crown Paints expanded its operations across four East African countries and saw significant growth in revenues and profits.
During his tenure, Dr. Rao helped Crown Paints post a net profit of Ksh 34.4 million in 2005, which later grew to Ksh 544 million by 2024. His leadership has been recognized both locally and internationally, earning him various accolades and awards. He was also known for his philanthropic efforts, particularly through the ‘Team Kubwa Initiative’, which enhanced the education levels of painters in Kenya.
Financial Position Under Dr. Rao’s Leadership
Dr. Rao leaves Crown Paints in a strong financial position, with the company’s stock recently hitting a 52-week high of KES 62.00 on September 30, 2025. For the financial year ending December 31, 2024, Crown Paints reported a net profit increase to Ksh 544 million, a sharp recovery from a Ksh 29 million loss in 2023. The company also saw an 8% increase in revenue to Ksh 13.5 billion, driven by increased sales volume, improved marketing, and cost controls.
Additionally, the Board of Directors approved a final dividend of Ksh 3.00 per share, a testament to the company’s strong financial health under Dr. Rao’s leadership.
Mustafa Turra’s Vision for Crown Paints
As Mustafa Turra steps into his new role, he is expected to continue driving the company’s success by building on the strong foundation laid by Dr. Rao. With his extensive international experience, Turra is poised to guide Crown Paints into its next phase of growth, focusing on innovation and expanding its market leadership across the region.
Conclusion
Crown Paints’ leadership transition represents a pivotal moment for the company, as Mustafa Turra takes over from Dr. Rakesh Rao. With his global expertise and proven track record in business transformation, Turra is expected to lead Crown Paints into a new era of growth and innovation. Dr. Rao’s remarkable tenure has left the company in a solid financial position, and as the new CEO takes charge, Crown Paints is well-positioned for continued success in the competitive East African paint industry.
