In the realm of corporate Kenya, few names evoke as much recognition and respect as Michael Joseph.
A visionary leader and seasoned businessman, Joseph’s indelible mark on Safaricom and the broader business landscape has been nothing short of transformative.
His journey from Safaricom’s CEO to his current roles and his unique perspective on wealth have cemented his legacy as a stalwart figure in the country’s corporate history.
As the former CEO and Chairman of Safaricom, Michael Joseph masterminded the telecommunications giant’s meteoric rise to becoming East Africa’s largest and most profitable company.
Under his stewardship, Safaricom not only expanded its market share but also revolutionized mobile money with the groundbreaking M-Pesa platform.
This innovation brought financial inclusion to millions, empowering them with digital financial services that were previously inaccessible. Despite these monumental achievements, Joseph remains remarkably grounded.
One of Joseph’s recent endeavors is his role as Chairman of the national carrier, Kenya Airways. Tasked with steering the airline back to profitability by 2024, he collaborates closely with CEO Allan Kilavuka to orchestrate a turnaround.
His track record of propelling Safaricom to unparalleled heights makes him a formidable force in this new challenge. Joseph’s ability to strategize and execute transformative plans will undoubtedly be pivotal in revitalizing Kenya Airways’ fortunes.
However, it’s not just Joseph’s strategic acumen that sets him apart; it’s his unique perspective on wealth and his unassuming lifestyle that truly distinguishes him.
Despite earning significant fees and bonuses, Joseph maintains a pragmatic outlook on financial matters. He sold his Safaricom shares in 2019 to fund the construction of a home as part of his retirement planning.
This decision exemplifies his belief in investing with a purpose and using the returns for meaningful endeavors.
Joseph’s property holdings include a house in Wales and an apartment in London, along with an Audi. Interestingly, he has clarified that his property in the Lewa conservancy is rented rather than owned, dispelling rumors of vast real estate ownership.
In his own words, “When you invest in a company like I did with Safaricom, you invest for a reason.” Joseph’s philosophy resonates with a careful and thoughtful approach to wealth management—one that values purposeful investment and aligning financial decisions with personal aspirations.
His multi-faceted involvement extends beyond Kenya Airways. As the Chairman of Safaricom Ethiopia and insurtech startup Pula, Joseph’s influence extends across borders.
He also serves as an advisor to the CEO at Safaricom Ethiopia, contributing his expertise to replicate the telco’s Kenyan success in the populous nation.
In a world where corporate leaders are often synonymous with opulence, Joseph’s outlook is refreshing.
He steadfastly maintains that he is not a wealthy man, eschewing the trappings of ostentatious affluence.
