Crown Paints Kenya Plc has announced the appointment of Mustafa Turra as the company’s new Group Chief Executive Officer (CEO), effective October 1, 2025. This marks a significant leadership transition for the company as it enters its next phase of growth and innovation.
The announcement was made by Conrad Nyukuri, the Company Secretary, in a notice dated September 29, 2025. The Board expressed its full confidence in Mustafa Turra’s ability to steer Crown Paints to new heights, citing his global outlook, strategic acumen, and proven track record in driving profitable growth.
Mustafa Turra’s Background and Leadership Experience
Mustafa Turra brings a wealth of experience to his new role. Before joining Crown Paints, he served as Business Head and Vice President at Olam Agri Nigeria, overseeing one of the largest feed businesses in Sub-Saharan Africa. In this role, he managed operations in over 10 countries, leading high-performance teams in fast-paced industries.
With more than 20 years of international leadership across India, the Middle East, Africa, the Caribbean, and South Asia, Turra has honed expertise in business transformation, financial management, and operational efficiency. He holds an MBA in Strategic Management and Marketing from XLRI Jamshedpur and a Bachelor of Technology in Electrical Engineering from Jamia Millia Islamia in New Delhi.
A Smooth Transition and Praise for Outgoing CEO Dr. Rakesh Rao
The appointment of Mustafa Turra comes after Dr. Rakesh Rao, the outgoing CEO, steered the company for 15 years. During his tenure, Dr. Rao transformed Crown Paints into an industry leader and a Nairobi Securities Exchange (NSE)-listed company. His leadership was instrumental in guiding the company’s growth from a net profit of Ksh 34.4 million in 2005 to the impressive Ksh 544 million in 2024.
Dr. Rao’s contributions were not limited to business growth; he was also involved in philanthropic efforts. His Team Kubwa Initiative focused on enhancing the educational levels of painters in Kenya, lifting many out of poverty.
In recognition of his contributions, the Board of Crown Paints extended their heartfelt appreciation for Dr. Rao’s leadership, which included his significant role in driving the company’s success in the East African market.
Financial Performance Under Dr. Rao’s Leadership
Dr. Rao leaves Crown Paints in a strong financial position. For the financial year 2024, the company reported a net profit of Ksh 544 million, a sharp recovery from a Ksh 29 million loss in 2023. Revenue also increased by 8%, totaling Ksh 13.5 billion. This turnaround was driven by increased sales volume, improved marketing, cost controls, and a stable Kenyan currency.
In recognition of the strong performance, the Board approved a final dividend of Ksh 3.00 per share.
Mustafa Turra’s Vision for the Future
As the new CEO, Mustafa Turra is expected to build on the momentum established under Dr. Rao’s leadership. With his global experience and track record in business transformation, he is well-positioned to continue Crown Paints’ growth trajectory and lead the company into new markets while reinforcing its position as a regional leader in the paint industry.
The Board expressed confidence that Turra’s expertise would redefine the company’s future and drive Crown Paints towards new levels of growth and innovation.
Key Details of Mustafa Turra’s Appointment:
- New CEO of Crown Paints: Mustafa Turra
- Effective Date: October 1, 2025
- Previous Role: Business Head & Vice President at Olam Agri Nigeria
- Education: MBA in Strategic Management and Marketing, Bachelor of Technology in Electrical Engineering
- Leadership Focus: Business transformation, strategic growth, multicultural team management
Conclusion
Crown Paints embarks on a new chapter with Mustafa Turra at the helm. With his extensive experience and strategic leadership, the company is poised to enter an exciting phase of growth and innovation. As Dr. Rakesh Rao steps down, Turra’s appointment signals the company’s commitment to continuing its legacy of market leadership while adapting to future opportunities. The paint manufacturer, now in a healthy financial position, looks set to build upon its past successes under Turra’s leadership.
