Nairobi, Kenya – Sanlam Allianz Holdings PLC has announced the appointment of Dr Martin Oduor Otieno as the new chairman of the Board.
In a public announcement, the group company secretary Emma Wachira said Dr Otieno’s appointment takes effect on June 4, 2026.
New Sanlam Allianz chair profile
According to the statement, Otieno is the Founder and CEO of The Leadership Group Limited.
He holds an honorary Doctor of Business Leadership degree from KCA University, an Executive MBA from ESAMI/Maastricht School of Management, and a Bachelor of Commerce degree from the University of Nairobi.
Otieno is also an alumnus of the Harvard Business School’s Advanced Management Programme and a Fellow of the Kenya Institute of Bankers, the Institute of Certified Public Accountants of Kenya, the Institute of Directors Kenya, and the Institute of Certified Secretaries Kenya.
He also holds the International Coaching Federation’s credential as a Professional Certified Coach.
“In recognition of his contribution to national development in Kenya, Dr Martin Oduor – Otieno was awarded the honour of Chief of the Order of the Burning Spear (CBS) by the Head of State,” read the announcement in part.
Dr Otieno currently serves as Group Chairman of EABL and as a Non-Executive Director of BAT Kenya PLC and Africa Nenda Foundation. He is also the Chancellor of KCA University.
Taking over from Dr John Simba
Otieno takes over from Dr John P N Simba, whose term ended on June 4, 2026.
Dr Simba was also a member of the Investment Committee and the Human Resources, Nomination and Remuneration Committee.
The outgoing chair oversaw the rebranding of the Group from Pan Africa to Sanlam and now SanlamAllianz.
“Dr Simba was also very instrumental in the mergers, acquisitions and divestitures of various companies over the years in the investments and general insurance businesses. Quite recently, under his stewardship, the Group launched a successful Rights Issue which ensured that the Holdings company was adequately capitalised,” the notice continued in part.
Sanlam Allianz PLC expressed its sincere thanks to D. Simba for his distinguished service and invaluable contribution to the Group, wishing him every success in his future endeavours.
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