The Institute of Human Resource Management (IHRM) has re-elected its chairperson for a second term, in an election that members described as historic for the statutory body that regulates the HR profession in Kenya.
In his acceptance speech, Certified Human Resource Professional (CHRP) Dalmas Philip Odero, who will now serve another term as the IHRM Chairperson, said the overwhelming support he received was not a personal victory but a collective win for the profession.
“Since the enactment of the HRMP Act in 2012 and the first election under it in 2013, never before has a chairperson garnered the level of support you have entrusted in me. This is not my victory alone, it is a victory for every HR professional who believes in a stronger, more respected and future-ready profession,” Odero emphasized.
Odero paid tribute to the founders of IHRM, led by Mr. Adrian Mutesi and his first counsel, whose foresight 38 years ago gave rise to the institution. He also recognized his predecessors for transforming the institute from a private entity into a statutory professional body.
The IHRM Chairperson congratulated his opponent for a spirited contest, noting that the campaign was not divisive but a reflection of passion for the profession.
He also commended the IHRM Secretariat led by Executive Director, Ms. Kureisha Abdullahi, whose dedication he said has raised the institute’s profile nationally and regionally.
Reflecting on his first term, CHRP Odero apologized to members who may have been offended by his remarks or decisions, while forgiving critics in the spirit of reconciliation.
“We meet at a turning point. The proposed amendments to the IHRM Act are a recognition of the critical role HR plays in nation building. If enacted, these reforms will expand our mandate, strengthen our influence and raise the bar of accountability,” Odero noted.
He pledged to spearhead advocacy for the reforms, outlining four key pillars that will guide his leadership in the new term: professionalism, membership welfare, advocacy, and vision and execution.
On professionalism, Odero vowed to strengthen ethics, advanced certification, and position HR practitioners to respond to emerging challenges such as artificial intelligence, hybrid work models and diversity and inclusion.
The chairperson committed to introducing programmes that promote mentorship, mental health, and overall well-being, ensuring members feel valued and protected.
Odero promised to lobby government and stakeholders to recognize HR as a strategic partner in policy formulation, workforce planning and reforms.
On vision and execution, he emphasised delivering practical action plans rooted in current realities while preparing members for future demands.
“The task before us is clear to elevate HR as a profession that not only transforms organisation’s but also strengthens our nation. Together, we shall position IHRM as a continental giant in people management, corporate leadership and public sector reform,” Odero declared.
He urged members to embrace the institute’s rallying call Bele Daima, Forward Ever, stressing that teamwork and unity of purpose will be essential in shaping the profession’s next chapter.
Odero also assured members that a comprehensive roadmap for the new term will be released soon, while thanking all who participated in the elections for exercising their democratic right.
“As we celebrate this moment of unity and renewed purpose, I want to thank every member who participated in this election. I pray for God’s blessings and protection upon each one of you. Bele Daima,” Odero concluded.
The Institute of Human Resource Management, established under the Human Resource Management Professionals Act, 2012, regulates the practice, standards and conduct of HR professionals in Kenya.
Over the years, it has become a key player in workforce development, organizational leadership and policy reforms across both public and private sectors.
By Wendy Sheilla
