FKE's Mugo elected first African female International Organisation of Employers president

The Federation of Kenya Employers (FKE) CEO Jacqueline Mugo has been elected the new president to head the 155-member International Organisation of Employers (IOE).

Mugo was unanimously elected by the member states during the general assembly held on June 2, in Geneva, Switzerland.

Mugo takes over from Michele Parmelee who has served from 2021-2024 and becomes the first African female to head the organisation.

She is set to serve in the position for a three-year term.

In her acceptance speech, Mugo expressed her gratitude and vision recognizing the significant role the organization has played in her professional journey.

She has been part of IOE since 2007.

“I have witnessed and actively participated in the remarkable evolution of the IOE; together, we have steadfastly upheld the principles and resilience of employers worldwide," she said.

She highlighted her longstanding relationship with the IOE and the collaborative spirit that has defined her experience within the organization.

"Our journey of collaboration, resilience, and unwavering commitment has been a source of immense encouragement for me. Together, we have successfully navigated through unprecedented times,” Mugo said.

Following the election, IOE members expressed their deep appreciation for the many significant achievements during her tenure.

The General Council also elected six vice presidents for the new term who include Renate Hornung-Draus (Germany) as IOE Vice-President to the ILO, Alexandre Furlan (Brazil) as IOE Vice-President for Latin America and Sonya Janahi (Bahrain) as IOE Vice-President for the Asia-Pacific.

Others are Blaise Matthey (Switzerland) as IOE Vice-President for Europe and Central Asia, Hicham Zouanat (Morocco) for Africa and Thomas Mackall (USA) to represent North America.

Mugo, an advocate of the High Court of Kenya and a seasoned Industrial Relations practitioner brings a wealth of experience and expertise to her new role.

She is also a Titular member of the Governing Body of the International Labour Organization (ILO), the Secretary-General of BUSINESSAfrica Employers Confederation, and a former Vice President for Africa of the IOE.

Her extensive contributions to global employment policy, including her roles at the International Labour Conference and various board-level positions, have earned her numerous Presidential and international awards and recognition, underscoring her dedication to advancing employer interests worldwide.