LEWA CONSERVANCY APPOINTS FORMER AMBASSADOR ROB MACAIRE AS NEW CEO

The Board of Lewa Wildlife Conservancy has announced that Rob Macaire will take over as Chief Executive Officer, starting1 June 2026.

Macaire will take the reins from Mike Watson, who is set to retire on 1 August 2026 following 15 years of service.  The selection process, launched in October 2025, initially sought individuals with backgrounds in conservation.

However, given the wide-ranging nature of the CEO role spanning major donor engagement, global partnerships, day-to-day operations, and community outreach the Board broadened its search internationally to include candidates with strong business and leadership experience outside the conservation sector. 

At the same time, the Board kept its focus on identifying Kenyan talent, staying true to Lewa’s long-term commitment to localisation. Ultimately, Macaire stood out as the individual most capable of handling the full scope of the position. 

“We are entering a new era of conservation that requires a leader who can engage both the global boardroom and the local community,” said Chairman Michael Joseph. “Rob’s diplomatic experience and commitment to Kenyan heritage give him the vision and grit to lead Lewa’s next chapter.”

An Oxford graduate and former British High Commissioner to Kenya, he offers a distinct blend of diplomatic skill and corporate experience gained from senior leadership positions at Rio Tinto and BG Group. In those roles, he provided guidance to boards on matters related to environmental oversight, political risk, and social investment across Africa and the Middle East. As High Commissioner, he played a role in Kenya’s constitutional reforms and was key to the revival of Karura Forest.