Standard Group fetes outgoing CEO

By Felix Olick

Outgoing Standard Group Deputy Chairman and Chief Executive Paul Melly was on Friday night feted by management and staff during a farewell party at the Group headquarters along Mombasa Road, Nairobi.

Mr Melly was lost for words when he stood up to speak.

He told the staff, “I appreciate your support”.

“I am humbled by the support you have given me during my tenure. I sincerely thank each one of you for the support I have received during my engagement with the Group. I will miss you,” he told the staff.”

But even as he said goodbye, Melly reiterated his most common verse, something that has been key to his heart: Editorial independence.

“That which we have achieved as Standard Group is anchored and inspired by the defence of public interest and independent editorial,” observed Melly.

Public interest

He urged the management to continue safeguarding the editorial independence and put public interest ahead of everything.

“Because if anyone tries to turn the ship for any vested agenda, those of us and the people of Kenya will see and scream,” cautioned the outgoing Standard boss.

Melly was confident that he leaves the group in safe hands.

He said that his successor, Mr Sam Shollei and the rest of the management team are up to the task to steer the group to greater heights. 

Group Executive Director in charge of Innovation and Value Addition, Francis Munywoki, said the company must continue to build stronger business and a commanding brand.

“You have led us with unwavering energy and unquestionable integrity. He has built a strong foundation and we must follow his footsteps to build a stronger business,” said Munywoki.