#7
STELLA ONDIMU
HEAD COMMUNICATION EAST AND WEST AFRICA, TETRA PAK
Stella Ondimu is an impactful communication expert with a robust corporate and strategic communication background, boasting proven experience in diverse markets, particularly in Africa. She adeptly navigates complex situations and remains at the core of multinational corporations and governmental affairs.
Currently, she holds the role of Business Communication Partner for East Africa (comprising 13 countries) and West Africa (comprising 21 countries) at Tetra Pak, the world’s leading food processing and packaging solutions company. In her capacity, Stella is responsible for developing and delivering corporate communication strategies, stakeholder and media management, sustainability communication, crisis management, and internal communication.
As she elaborates on her role, Stella emphasises the strategic aspect of her job, explaining, “In my job, I must think strategically and align communication efforts with the organisation’s overall goals. Coupled with excellent written and verbal communication skills, I must convey messages clearly and effectively to all my stakeholders.”
Reflecting on the challenges of managing diverse cultures, Stella reveals, “My brain is divided between West and East Africa most of the time, and given the difference in cultures, I literally must be on my toes a lot.”
Discussing her approach to professional growth and teamwork, Stella shares, “I understand the changing dynamics in the African continent and communication trends. Driven by new challenges and opportunities, I strive for continuous growth and learning for myself and those around me. As a passionate person who has worked with diverse teams and disciplines, I cultivate excitement and drive to deliver strong results.”
Stella’s dedication to brand ownership and fostering relationships is underscored by her statement, “I give brands wings. Every time I work for a brand, I own it and make sure that I live it and leave a mark on everything that I do. I believe in building and maintaining positive relationships with various stakeholders, and this has gone a long way to enhance my career.”
With over 20 years of experience in the communication sector, the smiley go-getter began her journey as a writer for the Standard and The East African newspapers.
%Later, she embraced a challenge at the British High Commission in Nairobi as an Assistant Press Officer before advancing to the position of Press and Public Affairs Officer. Stella considers this her first real job, as it significantly influenced her life and career by offering the exposure, training, and work environment she sought. “I have worked for various organisations including Multichoice, British Council, and ventured into County Governments,” she remarks.
Reflecting on her journey, she adds, “I attribute my professional discipline, dynamism, and willingness to confront challenges directly to my progression thus far in my illustrious career.”
As an alumna of Moi University in Eldoret, Stella pursued Education, and at the University of Nairobi’s (UoN) School of Journalism, she focused on Mass Communication.
Throughout the years, Stella has pursued numerous courses in communication, demonstrating her commitment to staying abreast of the rapidly evolving field. She firmly believes that learning is a lifelong journey.
Stella is deeply passionate about advocating for fairness across all sectors. She asserts that everyone deserves equal opportunities to thrive and excel.
To loosen up after a tasking day or week, she spends her time swinging away at the golf course and just relaxing at home.
“My mantra is to keep moving and always keep your eyes on the ball,” concludes the corporate communications guru.
