UNMATCHED EXPERTISE

Azhar Rifai, a founding director of Cold Solutions Services (CSS) and based in Nairobi since 2019, joined ARCH Emerging Market Partners in 2018. He oversees the identification of strategic assets and manages the construction and operation of cold storage facilities. With over 15 years of experience in the telecoms, media, and technology industries, Azhar possesses extensive expertise in operations, special projects, and restructuring.

Recently, Azhar successfully spearheaded the design and construction of East Africa’s largest Grade A multi-purpose cold storage warehouse in Kenya, which became operational in August 2023. He is currently leading CSS teams in developing similar facilities across Uganda, Rwanda, and Tanzania.

Julius is a highly experienced Civil Engineer (Structures) renowned for his outstanding achievements in overseeing the successful implementation of Infrastructure Projects. With a rich professional history extending over two decades within the construction industry, he has consistently demonstrated excellence in project management, playing a pivotal role in the triumph of esteemed endeavors such as Tatu City in Kiambu.

His extensive skill set covers a spectrum of areas including civil engineering consultancy, adept contract management, meticulous construction supervision, and a commitment to nurturing the next generation of engineers through undergraduate training. Furthermore, Julius actively engages in pioneering engineering research initiatives, showcasing his dedication to advancing the field.

Julius's proficiency extends beyond borders, as evidenced by his impactful contributions in various geographical contexts. His professional journey has taken him through the intricacies of projects not only in Kenya but also in South Africa and South Sudan. This diverse experience reflects his adaptability and competence in addressing the unique challenges posed by different regions, making him an asset in the realm of civil engineering on an international scale.

Lionel brings over 30 years of Project Management expertise to the Construction Industry, with a background spanning 15 years in South Africa, 14 years in the UAE, and 4 years in East Africa. Currently, he serves as the Technical Projects Director for "ARCH Emerging Markets Partners Limited" in Nairobi, overseeing the development of the first industrial-scale Cold Chain business in East Africa. The ambitious plan involves establishing 10 cold storage facilities across 5 countries in the next 4 years, providing 100,000 pallet positions of temperature-controlled storage to the East African market.

Before joining CSSEA, Lionel held the role of General Manager at Giolog DWC, initially serving as the Construction Project Director for Logistics Facilities. His extensive career includes roles with Energy Property Developers, Al-Futtaim Group, Carillion, and Famco.

Transitioning from a construction specialist to a logistics real estate generalist in 2013, Lionel has successfully led the construction of four cold storage facilities. Notable recent projects include Mohebi, Landmark Group, Carrefour New Distribution Centre, and CSSK TATU Cold Storage facility in Nairobi.

Currently, Lionel is actively involved in designing and budgeting for upcoming CSSK Cold Store Facilities in Mombasa, Kigali, Kampala, and Dar Es Salaam.

A highly seasoned senior project manager, David brings to the table over 13 years of unwavering expertise in Project and Construction Management. His extensive experience is notably marked by a keen focus on Project and Contract Management, emphasizing the meticulous oversight of Quality Management Systems, Project Quality Plans, and comprehensive Project Planning & Scheduling. This proficiency has been applied across a diverse spectrum of projects, spanning banking facilities, commercial fit-outs, hospitality ventures, cold chain facilities, logistics, manufacturing establishments, master planning initiatives, and commercial buildings in both the dynamic landscapes of Kenya and Seychelles.

David became an integral part of Cold Solutions Services EA in 2020, where he actively contributed to the successful delivery of our flagship project—an impressive 15,000 pallet cold storage facility situated at the prestigious Tatu City. His commitment to excellence and extensive background in managing multifaceted projects positions him as an asset in ensuring the successful realization of complex ventures.

Willis Muriu assumed the role of Information Technology Manager at Cold Solutions Services East Africa Limited in June 2023. Before joining the Cold Solutions team, Willis served as an IT Consultant at Echo International. In this capacity, he played a key role in offering strategic advisory services, managing budgets, overseeing system implementations, handling infrastructure technology, enhancing planning processes, and executing daily operational management tasks.

Educationally, Willis holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Computer Science with a minor in mathematics, which he earned from New Jersey City State University, NJ. His academic background, coupled with his hands-on experience as an IT Consultant, positions him as a well-rounded professional capable of leveraging both theoretical knowledge and practical insights in steering Cold Solutions Services East Africa towards technological excellence.

Cindy King'ori is a dynamic Business Analyst specializing in the intricate realm of Data Science and Analytics. In July 2023, she embarked on her journey with Cold Solutions Services East Africa Limited, bringing with her a wealth of expertise in leveraging data to drive strategic decision-making.

At the core of Cindy's professional prowess is her adeptness in optimizing processes and identifying cost-saving opportunities, particularly in the context of enhancing supply chain efficiency and effecting operational improvements within the logistics industry.

Previously, while serving as an Analyst at the Competition Authority of Kenya, Cindy showcased her exceptional analytical skills by navigating complex regulatory frameworks. Her efforts contributed significantly to ensuring fair market conditions and fostering healthy competition. This experience not only solidified her regulatory expertise but also laid the groundwork for her specialization in advanced analytics.

Fueling her passion for staying at the forefront of industry advancements, Cindy aspires to continually optimize operations through the strategic application of data science. Her commitment is rooted in the belief that meaningful data holds the key to not only unlocking operational efficiencies but also steering organizations towards enhanced profitability and overall success.

David Kiambi is a Human Resources professional with over 23 years’ experience in HR leadership. He has held executive HR leadership roles for 20 years out of a career spanning 34 years for several multinational organizations with interests in the East African region. Prior to joining the HR profession, he was a practicing Mechanical Engineer.

He holds a BSc. Mechanical Engineering degree from the University of Nairobi and an MBA Employee Relations from the University of Leicester UK. He is a Fellow of the Institute of HR Management (IHRM) Kenya and a certified ICF leadership Coach.

He has experience in Manufacturing, Banking, Media, and Cold Chain Logistics.

Massoud Janekeh joined ARCH in 2020 as the Head of Risk, advising the investment committee on investment risks and valuations. He also supports the ARCH Cold Solutions teams with his logistics and supply chain expertise and leads the firm’s MENA strategy.

With over 30 years of experience in industry and finance, Massoud began his career as a chemical engineer with ICI, managing capital projects and later overseeing the global supply chain of pesticide products. After earning his MBA, he became a strategy consultant at AT Kearney, focusing on mergers before transitioning to the financial sector as the Head of Corporate Banking and Capital Markets at the Bank of London and the Middle East. Prior to joining ARCH, Massoud worked with Clearbrook Capital, establishing their UK healthcare investment platform, where he serves as a senior advisor.

Massoud holds a PhD in Chemical Engineering and an MBA from Oxford University.

CPA Paul Kimani is an enthusiastic and steadfast accounting professional with over 15 years of experience, primarily in the fast-moving consumer goods and manufacturing sectors.

He has hands-on knowledge and experience in the planning and practical implementation phases of accounting projects. He is skilled at developing and executing targeted organizational initiatives that drive growth and achieve objectives.

Paul excels at eliminating inefficiencies through process improvement, accounting procedures, maintenance, and the development of financial systems. He is adept at applying financial management practices to ensure accurate budget forecasts and reports. Additionally, he specializes in maintaining accuracy and adhering to quality standards while handling various budget planning and resource allocation tasks.

Roy is a seasoned Construction Project Manager with over six years of experience in overseeing large-scale construction and fit-out projects. Currently working with Cold Solutions East Africa, he manages the construction of temperature-controlled storage facilities across the region, ensuring compliance with rigorous quality, safety, and regulatory standards. His key responsibilities include coordinating design teams, supervising contractors, managing budgets, and ensuring timely project completion.

In previous roles, Roy managed a diverse range of projects, including multiple Naivas retail fit-outs, contributing to the chain's successful expansion. He also led office renovations and maintenance projects for major financial and government institutions such as the Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA), Kenya Commercial Bank (KCB), and the Central Bank of Kenya.

Proficient in industry-standard software such as ArchiCAD, Artlantis, Revit, and Microsoft Office, Roy efficiently manages all aspects of project execution. His certifications in Occupational Health & Safety and Firefighting Techniques underscore his commitment to safety and quality. Known for his strong leadership and planning skills, Roy consistently delivers projects within tight timelines and budgets.

Beryl Akumu is a Certified Project Management Professional with over 5years experience in leading and managing development projects in the country. She holds a BSc. in Construction Management from Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology and has over the years honed her skills in project planning, contract management, risk management, strategy planning and quality control.

Over the course of her career, she has successfully managed several projects but not limited to education institutions, sports facilities, commercial centres, hospitality, and health care facilities. She has a proven track record of delivering projects within the triple constraints of time, budget, and quality.

On a personal level, she is a proud Rotaractor or who truly believes in service to humanity.

Felix Ndolo has had the privilege of working on numerous landmark projects across the country over the past fifteen years, including Africa's first LEED Platinum certified development.

Throughout his career, Felix has held roles as a Quantity Surveyor, Project Manager, and Construction Manager for consultants, developers, and contractors. This diverse experience has given him a comprehensive understanding of the fluid and complex technicalities that define construction projects.

He has successfully executed projects across various sectors, including residential, hospitality, banking, healthcare, commercial, and education. This exposure has deepened his appreciation for the diverse design standards, statutory requirements, and unique considerations necessary for the successful completion of each project.

Felix's attention to detail and methodical approach makes him a highly effective and accomplished professional in the construction industry.