MS. JACQUELINE MUGO ELECTED PRESIDENT OF THE INTERNATIONAL ORGANIZATION OF EMPLOYERS (IOE)

Business Africa Employers’ Confederation (BUSINESSAfrica) is proud to announce that Mrs. Jacqueline Mugo, Secretary-General for BUSIENESAfrica was unanimously elected as the first African female Global President of the 155-member organization of the International Organization of Employers (IOE) during the General Assembly held on Sunday, June 2, 2024. Ms. Mugo will serve in this role for a three-year term starting 2024 to 2027.

Ms. Mugo, who has been an integral part of the IOE since 2007, expressed her gratitude and vision during her acceptance speech, recognizing the significant role the organization has played in her professional journey. "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 further 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.” she said.

Ms. Jacqueline Mugo, a seasoned lawyer and Advocate of the High Court of Kenya, brings a wealth of experience and expertise to her new role as President of the International Organization of Employers (IOE). With decades of leadership experience in both the public and private sectors, including senior positions in the judiciary, multinational enterprises, FMCG companies, and the aviation sector, Ms. Mugo is a transformational leader. She is also a Titular member of the Governing Body of the International Labour Organization (ILO), the Executive Director (ED) and Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Federation of Kenya Employers (FKE), 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, underscoring her dedication to advancing employer interests worldwide.

Ms. Mugo is taking over from Michele Parmelee who has led the organization for the past four years. IOE members expressed their deep appreciation for the many significant achievements during her tenure. During her tenure, Ms Parmelee played a pivotal role in significantly advancing IOE's gender and just transition policy agenda, leaving a strong foundation for the new leadership to build upon.

Renate Hornung-Draus was re-elected as IOE Vice-President of the International Labour Organisation (ILO). Ms. Hornung-Draus, from the Confederation of German Employers' Associations, served for many years on the ILO Governing Body and as IOE Vice-President for Europe.

The General Council also elected five Regional Vice-Presidents for the new term: Alexandre Furlan (Brazil) for Latin America; Sonya Janahi (Bahrain) for the Asia-Pacific; Blaise Matthey (Switzerland) for Europe & Central Asia; Hicham Zouanat (Morroco) for Africa; and Thomas MacKall (USA) for North America.
 
BUSINESSAfrica congratulates Ms. Jacqueline Mugo on her new role at the International Organization of Employers. Her election is a testament to her outstanding leadership and dedication to the world of work, and we are confident that she will continue to champion the interests of employers globally in her new role.