Microsoft Kenya Country Manager Phyllis Migwi has confirmed she will step down this February, closing a three‑and‑a‑half‑year chapter at the helm of the tech giant’s local operations.
In a statement shared on LinkedIn, Migwi reflected on her tenure and signaled a transition into a new phase of her career:
“After an enriching 3.5 years, I am excited to share that I’ll be transitioning from my role this February. As I prepare to transition into my next chapter, I find myself looking back at this period with immense pride. It has been a profound honor to lead this work, but the time has come for me to pass the baton.”
Career Background
Migwi is widely recognized as a dynamic and visionary technology leader, with over two decades of experience driving growth and innovation across Africa’s rapidly evolving digital landscape. Her career spans leadership roles at Coca‑Cola, Tata Consultancy Services (TCS‑India), IBM, and Microsoft, consistently delivering transformative results.
Before joining Microsoft in 2022, she spearheaded the Hybrid Cloud & AI business for IBM’s Africa Growth Market, developing strategies that accelerated digital transformation for clients across the continent. At Microsoft Kenya, she led efforts to empower organizations through cutting‑edge technology and fostered a vibrant ecosystem of partners and customers, extending influence from Kenya to Angola.
Her global career has taken her across North America, Europe, Africa, and India, giving her a broad perspective and deep understanding of diverse markets.
Achievements at Microsoft
During her tenure, Migwi strengthened ties with the Kenyan government, expanded partnerships across public and private sectors, and championed initiatives in digital skills development, cloud adoption, and SME empowerment. She emphasized the strategic importance of Microsoft’s mission in Kenya and the broader region:
“The work we are doing in Kenya and the region is critical. From strengthening government relations to empowering local businesses and communities, the ‘why’ behind our work has never been clearer.”
Looking Ahead
Migwi expressed confidence in the future leadership of Microsoft Kenya, urging for a vision‑driven successor:
“There is still so much potential to amplify this impact, and we need someone who is vision‑led to continue that momentum. I am genuinely excited to see who will take the lead next and build upon the foundation we have laid.”
She also encouraged prospective candidates to consider the opportunity, framing it as both a mission and a legacy:
- The Mission: Be at the forefront of Kenya’s and the region’s digital transformation.
- The Team: Work alongside exceptional individuals, “as brilliant as they are dedicated.”
- The Legacy: Build on a strong foundation to sustain momentum and “amplify the impact.”
Personal Vision
Migwi has consistently articulated her passion for harnessing the power of technology to unlock Africa’s immense potential and drive sustainable economic growth. She is a firm believer in building strong, high‑performing teams, fostering a culture of innovation, and empowering the next generation of leaders.
