Naivas Supermarket. Photo | Courtesy.
Naivas Supermarket has announced the appointment of Andreas von Poleske as its new Chief Executive Officer, effective November 1, 2025, marking a new phase in the retailer’s 35-year journey. He takes over from long-serving CEO David Kimani, who is credited with transforming the company from a family business into Kenya’s leading supermarket chain.
In a statement, the retailer expressed gratitude for Kimani’s visionary leadership, which has seen Naivas grow into a national icon with over 100 stores across the country.
“Under David’s entrepreneurial spirit and distinguished leadership, Naivas grew from a family business into a national icon. His vision steered us to a milestone of over 100 stores nationwide, touching the lives of millions of Kenyans,” the company said.
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The transition, according to Naivas, reflects “a succession plan built on stability, strategic foresight, and profound respect for the culture that has made Naivas Kenya’s leading retail chain.”
New CEO
Andreas von Poleske, who has been serving as Naivas’ Chief of Strategy, was handpicked by Kimani to help shape the company’s long-term direction.
“For the past eight years, Andreas has served as our Chief of Strategy, personally recruited by David to shape the long-term direction of Naivas,” the statement noted.
Naivas described von Poleske as the architect of our strategy and a leader who knows our soul, citing his deep industry pedigree and vast experience in retail and consumer sectors.
“This unique blend gives him a holistic understanding of how to drive sustainable growth in our dynamic market,” the company added.
Continuity and Stability
The retailer emphasized that the leadership transition is about continuity rather than change.
“This transition is designed for seamless continuity. Andreas knows our business inside and out and is deeply committed to building upon the strong foundation laid by David,” Naivas said.
The board further expressed confidence in the incoming CEO, “We remain unwavering in our commitment to delivering exceptional value to our customers, strengthening our partnerships, and continuing our investment in the communities we call home.”
