The Standard Group PLC has appointed Dr Naim Bilal Yaseen as its new Group Chief Executive Officer following the resignation of Chaacha Mwita.
In a notice dated Thursday, October 29, 2026, the media company announced that Dr Yaseen would assume the position substantively from November 1, 2026, following the conclusion of a competitive recruitment process.
The appointment formalises his leadership of the company after previously serving in an acting capacity.
“Following the conclusion of a competitive recruitment process, the Board of Directors of The Standard Group PLC (TSG) has appointed Dr. Naim Bilal Yaseen, PhD to the position, effective 1 November 2026,” the company stated.
Dr Yaseen brings more than three decades of experience in the media industry, public institutions and corporate governance. He previously served as Managing Director of the Kenya Broadcasting Corporation (KBC) and Director of Public Affairs and Communication at the Judiciary.
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 (LLB). He is also an Advocate of the High Court of Kenya.
The Standard Group Board expressed confidence that his appointment would strengthen the company’s digital and commercial operations while protecting its editorial standards.
“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 read.
His appointment comes after the company separately announced the resignation of Mwita as Group Chief Executive Officer and Executive Director, effective November 1, 2026.
In a notice to shareholders and the general public, the Board confirmed Mwita’s departure, thanking him for his contribution to the media company.
“The Board takes this opportunity to express its sincere appreciation to Mr. Chaacha for his dedication and invaluable contribution to the Company. The Board wishes him every success and the very best in his future endeavors,” the notice stated.
The leadership transition comes as Standard Group oversees a portfolio of media brands and businesses, including The Standard, KTN, Maisha, The Nairobian, Spice FM, BURU FM and Qwetu Classifieds.
Both announcements were issued pursuant to capital markets disclosure regulations requiring listed companies to communicate material information to shareholders and the public.
Dr Yaseen’s appointment takes effect on November 1, 2026, the same date Mwita’s resignation becomes effective.
