KFC Africa appoints Jamie Wong to lead commercial strategy, sustainable growth

SOUTH AFRICA – KFC has named Jamie Wong as Director of Commercial and Strategy for KFC Africa, tasking him with driving sustainable market expansion and empowering teams to reshape the quick-service restaurant (QSR) landscape across the continent.

Jamie is steering KFC’s growth across Africa with a clear focus on sustainable expansion and customer-first innovation.

As the brand looks to deepen its presence on the continent, a key part of his strategy lies in optimising digital and delivery platforms to better meet the evolving needs of consumers across diverse markets.

At the heart of Jamie’s leadership approach is a guiding belief: to make KFC a brand that genuinely connects with people in a rapidly changing world.

He is committed to future-proofing both the business and the broader industry by championing data-led decisions, agile strategies, and a people-centric mindset.

Through this, Jamie aims to position KFC not just as a leading quick-service brand, but as a relevant and resilient force in the African hospitality landscape.

Complementing Jamie’s vision, Akhona Qengqe was appointed as the General Manager for KFC Africa on April 1, 2023, becoming the first Black African woman to hold this position.

Akhona’s journey with KFC began in 2015 as Development Director, followed by roles leading the brand’s Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging agenda, and serving as Chief People Officer in 2020.

Her leadership has been instrumental in achieving a 50% female representation in Africa’s senior leadership and in launching initiatives like the “Women on the Move” program and the global Community of Belonging (COB), SHINE, fostering inclusive leadership and community engagement.

Further strengthening the leadership team, Letlhogonolo ‘Nolo’ Thobejane was appointed as the head of KFC’s operations in sub-Saharan Africa (excluding South Africa).

Nolo’s tenure with KFC began in 2006, and she has since held various roles, including franchise operations and engagement director.

In her current role, Nolo is focused on accelerating growth, ensuring franchise partners uphold KFC’s brand standards and values, and future-proofing talent and skills in the post-COVID era.

Her emphasis on leveraging culture as a competitive edge and building partner capabilities underscores KFC’s commitment to sustainable growth in the region.

These leadership appointments reflect KFC Africa’s dedication to fostering a diverse and inclusive leadership team capable of navigating the complexities of the African market.

By aligning strategic vision with operational excellence and community engagement, KFC is poised to strengthen its footprint across the continent, delivering value to customers and stakeholders alike.

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