The Standard Group PLC has appointed Dr Naim Bilal as its substantive Group Chief Executive Officer, placing an experienced media and public affairs professional at the helm of one of Kenya's oldest media organisations.
In a notice dated Thursday, October 29, the company announced that Bilal's appointment would take effect on Sunday, November 1, 2026, following the conclusion of a competitive recruitment process.
"This appointment supersedes the earlier appointment in acting capacity, with Dr. Yaseen assuming substantive office with effect from 1 November 2026.
"The Board is confident that Dr. Yaseen will strengthen the Group’s digital and commercial performance and uphold the editorial independence on which public trust in its journalism depends," the announcement stated.
The appointment comes at a critical period for traditional media organisations, which are facing increased competition from digital platforms, changing audience consumption habits and pressure to diversify their revenue streams.
Three decades of experience in media and public service
Bilal takes over with a professional background spanning journalism, government institutions, corporate leadership and legal practice.
He previously served as Managing Director of the Kenya Broadcasting Corporation (KBC), the state-owned broadcaster, where he gained experience overseeing a major media organisation.
He also served as Director of Public Affairs and Communication at the Judiciary, a position that exposed him to institutional communication, public accountability and engagement with different stakeholders.
His academic qualifications include a PhD in Communication Studies, a Master of Arts in Communications Policy, a Master of Business Administration (MBA) and a Bachelor of Laws degree. He is also an Advocate of the High Court of Kenya.
The combination of media management, communications, business administration and legal expertise gives him experience across several areas relevant to running the Standard Group.
Bilal joins list of prominent Standard Group CEOs
His appointment adds another chapter to the Standard Group's history of leadership changes, which has seen the media organisation draw executives from journalism, finance, broadcasting and corporate management.
One of the company's earlier prominent chief executives was Tom Mshindi, who was appointed Group CEO in August 2003. According to the company's 2005 annual report, Mshindi had more than 18 years of experience in the local media industry and had previously worked with the United Nations in New York and Nigeria.
Another notable name is Orlando Lyomu, who was appointed Group CEO in 2018 after joining the company in 2013 as Group Finance Director and subsequently serving as Group Chief Operating Officer.
During his tenure, Lyomu oversaw an expansion of the company's broadcasting portfolio, including the addition of three radio and two television stations. He also led efforts to transform the organisation into an integrated newsroom operation.
In May 2024, the board appointed Marion Gathoga-Mwangi as Group CEO, effective July 15, replacing Joe Munene, who had been serving in an acting capacity. Gathoga-Mwangi brought more than 26 years of experience in commercial operations and general management, having previously held senior positions at BOC Kenya, Cadbury Kenya, Unga Limited and Bayer East Africa. Her tenure ended in June 2025 when she resigned to pursue other career interests.
The board subsequently appointed Chaacha Mwita as acting Group CEO, effective July 1, 2025. Mwita had previously served as the company's Editorial Director and brought more than 20 years of experience in journalism, communications and media development.
Bilal's appointment therefore comes after a series of leadership transitions within a relatively short period.
Digital transformation among key challenges
The new CEO will be expected to steer the company through an increasingly competitive media environment where traditional advertising models face pressure from digital platforms and changing audience habits.
The Standard Group operates several media brands, including The Standard newspaper, KTN television, Radio Maisha, Spice FM and The Nairobian. Its ability to strengthen digital journalism, attract audiences across different platforms and develop sustainable commercial models will be central to its future performance.
The board has specifically identified digital growth, commercial performance and editorial independence as priorities under Bilal's leadership.
Bilal's appointment was announced pursuant to the Capital Markets (Public Offers, Listings and Disclosures) Regulations, 2023, and the announcement was issued with the approval of the Capital Markets Authority. He will officially assume the substantive position on November 1, 2026.
