Executive Management

Obiomah Ogbonnaya Igbokwe

Obiomah Ogbonnaya Igbokwe

Founder & Chief Executive Officer
Obiomah O. Igbokwe founded Tristar Beverages to reclaim the African brewing and distillation narrative. With over two decades of experience in business, Finance and entrepreneurship, he champions the use of African resources for global products. He has partnered with hundreds of farmers and businesses in creating a vibrant supply chain ecosystem. He is poised to create over 5000 jobs for Africans in Africa. He has worked with some notable financial institutions in Nigeria with roles at UBA and Ecobank amongst others. He is a member of Nigeria Economic Summit Group (NESG) and also a member of various boards and organizations.
Chief Chimdindu Eben Osuagwu

Chief Chimdindu Eben Osuagwu

Chief Operations officer
Chimdindu Osuagwu is the Chief Operations Officer, Technical Director Brewing and Distilling at Tristar Beverages Limited. He was trained in Germany and United kingdom. He holds a Bsc degree in Biochemistry from University of Nigeria Nsukka and a Masters Degree in brewing & distilling from Heriot-Watt University in Edinburgh Scotland, UK. He has worked extensively in the distilling and brewing industry in Europe and Africa. Former Quality Assurance Manager, Production Manager and BrewMaster of Golden Guinea breweries PLC (1979-2000) Standing Consultant for EIA,(Federal Ministry of Environment ) Former Independent Consultant for M&E, NEWMAP( World Bank/ Abia State 2016-2020) Product Research Associate to Universities in Nigeria. Fellow Institute of Chartered Chemists of Nigeria, Member British Institute of Brewing, Member International Association of Impact Assessments ( www.iaia.org)
Mr. Ralf Schuster

Mr. Ralf Schuster

Chief Technical Officer/Quality Control Officer
He studied Brewing Science at the Technical University of WEIHENSTEPHAN and had his practical training in reputable breweries in Germany, Austria and Switzerland graduating as “Diplom-Braumeister” in 1979. He has worked with several brewing establishments globally in various capacities some of which are; Technical Director at SAPB Sarl in Douala/Cameroun General Manager Technical at KEROCHE Breweries Ltd in Naivasha/Kenya Judge at International Brewing Awards in GB-Burton u/T on several occasions. Brewing Director for license production of German-style beers in China for BRANDER URSTOFF Ltd from Gräfelfing/Germany Technical/Technological Consultant at SAPB Sarl in Douala/Cameroun. Independent brewing/beverage consultant for planning, erection and commissioning of new and used breweries and training of local personnel. Activities in Kosovo, Lebanon, Vietnam, Palestine and D.R. Congo. In 2015, 4+ months in Ethiopia for commissioning of a 2 MHL brewery with OENTAIR. Head Brewer/Brewery Director at Cumberland Breweries in Newry/UK. Had active participation during erection and commissioning of the entire plant, Training of local personnel was also his responsibility. Technical Director of LES BRASSERIES IVOIRIENNES in Abidjan/Côte d’Ivoire; Had active participation in erection and commissioning of the plant and training of local personnel. Head Brew master at SERENGETI BREWERIES (a member of DIAGEO group) in Dar-es-Sala’am/ Tanzania, in charge of production, quality control and training of local personnel, participating in rehabilitation and expansion of the brewery and in the planning and commissioning of two new breweries. The beers received awards from DLG and MONDE SELECTION in 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011 and 2012. License production of STELLA -ARTOIS and VITAMALT PLUS. Production/Technical Manager for BGI-CASTEL. He was assigned to various breweries: First at the then new DASHEN BREWERY in Ethiopia, participating in commissioning of the brewery and training of the local personnel, then in Cameroon and Central African Republic as production manager for ~1 year. He was with GOLDEN OIL (SONA-Mirchandani Group) in Nigeria, assigned to SONA, IBBI and BENUE Breweries as Brew master. He was Brew master and Trainer at GOLDEN GUINEA BREWERIES in Nigeria; In charge of production, bottling and training of local personnel. Brew master for BRAU-HAASE at BANJUL BREWERIES in Gambia. In charge of production, bottling, quality control and work shop. Quality Controller at HOFMARK BRAUEREI in Cham/Germany. Responsible for production, bottling, quality control and work shop. Brew master at MONROVIA BREWERIES in Liberia. In charge of production, bottling and quality control. Quality Controller at HACKER-PSCHORR BRAUEREI in Munich/ Germany, being responsible for quality control and filtration. He joins us with a wealth of experience in the industry having worked in Europe Africa and Asia. Special Knowledge: Brewing with 100% unmalted grains as well as brewing according to the German “Reinheitsgebot” (purity law). Technical planning and commissioning of new breweries; Rehabilitation of “dormant” breweries; Training of local personnel. He has good knowledge of German (mother tongue), English and French and basic knowledge of Greek, Italian and Kiswahili.
M. I. Hanson (LL.M)

M. I. Hanson (LL.M)

Head Corporate Services & Communications
Hanson, Itoro Merry is a seasoned corporate and commercial lawyer with over eight (8) years of progressive experience, primarily within the commercial space. Known for a strategic mindset and deep understanding of regulatory frameworks, she has provided expert legal guidance on commercial operations, communications, compliance, corporate governance, and stakeholder relations in one of the most highly regulated sectors. Currently serving as Head, Corporate Services and Communication, Hanson oversees the company’s services, corporate affairs, internal & External communications, and regulatory engagement functions. In this capacity, She plays a critical role in aligning legal strategy with business goals—ensuring operational compliance, managing corporate reputation, and strengthening stakeholder trust. Her work has been instrumental in supporting cross-border transactions, navigating complex licensing regimes, and driving governance initiatives that position the company as a responsible leader in the industry. Hanson, brings a unique blend of legal acumen and communication expertise that supports both business growth and brand integrity. She holds her LL.B from the University of Uyo, Nigeria, Master of Laws (LL.M) from the University of Lagos, Nigeria, and is a member of the Nigerian Bar Association. With a firm grasp of both legal and corporate communication landscapes, M. I. Hanson, continues to be a valued voice in shaping ethical and sustainable business practices within the beverages and distillery sector.
EMMANUEL CHUKWUKA ESIN

EMMANUEL CHUKWUKA ESIN

Head of ICT
Emmanuel Esin is a seasoned ICT and business consultant with over seven years of progressive experience across technical support, enterprise IT solutions, and business development. Recognized for his ability to combine deep technical expertise with strategic business insight, he has consistently delivered solutions that drive organizational growth, efficiency, and resilience. With a career foundation in customer service and technology support, Emmanuel developed a reputation for resolving complex challenges under pressure while maintaining client trust and satisfaction. Over the years, he has advanced into leadership and consulting roles where he has managed technology ecosystems spanning Apple, Microsoft, Lenovo, Dell, HP, and other leading platforms. His knowledge extends across Apple device management, Office 365, Google Workspace, enterprise security, ICT consulting, and procurement solutions, enabling him to support organizations at both operational and strategic levels. Emmanuel’s professional journey includes pivotal roles in Apple Authorized Service Providers (AASP), enterprise IT support firms, and specialist consulting positions, where he has been responsible for device lifecycle management, enterprise workflow optimization, customer engagement strategies, and vendor partnerships. His background also features strong experience in cloud services administration, Jamf-powered device security, and ICT procurement for government and corporate sectors. Certified as an Apple Certified Support Professional, with additional credentials in Lenovo Business Solutions, HSE compliance, and desktop publishing, Emmanuel blends technical authority with a customer-centric mindset. He is known for his adaptability, tenacity, and results-driven approach, ensuring that solutions are not only technically sound but also tailored to client objectives.
Ezekiel J.Umana

Ezekiel J.Umana

Chief Financial Officer
Mr. Ezekiel Joseph Umana is a Chartered Accountant and a seasoned Financial Management Consultant. He has actively worked extensively within the FMCG ecosystem In Nigeria. He has over two decades of work experience with more than 10 years in World Bank; International Development Association (IDA) funded Community and Social Development Projects. One of his notable achievements was the effective management, disbursement, monitoring, control and reporting of Billions of Naira in the Community Development Grants disbursed to Communities and Vulnerable Groups in Akwa Ibom State in Nigeria. In the course of this project, he supervised the generation of accurate and timely reports to stakeholders in the Project/Program which included The World Bank, Federal Ministry of Finance, Office of the Accountant General of the Federation, Akwa Ibom State Government, etc. He has held other top Financial Executive positions within an Oil Servicing Company, and also in a top-rated Accounting and Audit Firm in Nigeria. In his consulting practice, he has consulted for a wide range of FMCG companies in Nigeria. These positions have enabled him possess excellent interpersonal, communication and negotiation skills and the ability to develop and maintain mutually beneficial internal and external relationships. Mr. Ezekiel Umana holds a Bachelor of Science Degree in Accounting from the University of Calabar. He is an Associate of Accounting Technician, Certified Information Systems Auditor and is currently pursuing a Master of Science Degree programme in Accounting with the University of Uyo. He is a professional member of Information Systems Audit and Control Association, USA. He has an in-depth knowledge of Accounting Systems Design, Development and Implementation. He is a Financial Analyst, Business Analysis Professional and Data Analyst and has developed various financial and business models and Insights which have improved financial and business decision making processes within several Organizations. He sits on various company Boards in Nigeria such as Trustgate Consultancy Synergy Ltd, Jezzil Global Consults Nigeria Ltd, Homegriinz Farms Limited and Alton Ltd. He is happily married with three lovely children.
Onyekachi Nwaoha

Onyekachi Nwaoha

Chief, Sustainability, Corporate Social Responsbilty & ESG
Onyekachi drives Tristar’s environmental, social, and governance (ESG) strategy. From youth training to zero-waste systems, he ensures Tristar grows with integrity and community care. Built “Tristar Skills Academy”, Launched “Clean Water for Abam” borehole project ,Spearheading zero-waste roadmap (2030)
Stanley Obi

Stanley Obi

Chief Marketing and innovation officer
Stanley Obi is the Executive Director, Marketing & Innovation - Tristar Beverages Limited. An innovative and results-driven Brand Marketing Director with over 16 years of extensive experience in shaping and executing high impact commercial strategies. Renowned for his expertise in Innovation Management, Sales Strategy, Brand Marketing, Consumer Insight Generation, and Revenue Growth Management, he consistently delivers exceptional business outcomes. Proven track record of leading cross-functional teams to exceed corporate objectives, drives substantial revenue growth, and enhance brand equity in highly competitive markets. Adept at leveraging deep consumer insights to craft compelling brand narratives and innovative marketing campaigns that resonate with target audiences and propel market share expansion. He has worked with Heineken Nigeria in various roles some of which include, Sales Executive, Market Intelligence and Innovation Support Manager, Brand Manager, Innovation Manager, Head of Innovation & Portfolio Management of RTDs. At Coca-Cola Hellenic Bottling Company, Nigeria he was the Revenue Growth Management Manager. He rose from the position of General Manager, Brand Marketing & Communication LEXCEL Group, Nigeria to becoming the Brand Director Grand Oak Premium Business Unit LEXCEL Group, Nigeria before joining Tristar Beverages Limited.
Kalu Ibe FCA, MBA, ACITL.

Kalu Ibe FCA, MBA, ACITL.

Chief Sales and Logistics Officer. Tristar Beverages Limited.
Kalu Ibe is a logistics Professional with over two and a half decades of hands-on experience. He was the Distribution Operations Manager with Nigerian Breweries Plc.- a Heineken Opco. Previously, he held the position of Sales & Operations Planning Manager, Logistics Planning Manager & Depot Coordinating Managers of West, East & North Operations of the Consolidated Breweries Plc. He is a Professional member of the Chartered Institute of Logistics & Transport (CILT) and a member of Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria (ICAN). He has experiences in public sector Accounting, retail trade management - including footprint expansion in core regional markets. He is also a Sales professional, with hands on experience in S&OP from implementation to Coordination at the Executive Level. He has spent quality time at Nigerian Breweries Plc which is one of the largest Heineken Group Operating Companies in the world. Based in the Corporate Head Office, he coordinated distribution operations pan Nigeria. he had the responsibility of meeting Sales function and Stakeholder expectations from the Regional Logistic Teams - OTIF Deliveries, Stock availability in the Sales Depots, Efficient warehouse management, Transportation Management and Planning, TAT measures and other Transportation KPIs to monitor achievement and performances that will deliver Cost Leadership, Customer Intimacy, Operational Excellence and Product/Service Differentiation.