MANAGEMENT TEAM
Jean-Paul Deprins
Chief Executive Officer
Jean-Paul, a Belgian executive, brings deep senior management experience from Europe and East Africa. He champions ethical, transparent business and evidence-based solutions. Passionate about forestry’s social impact in East African drylands, he advocates for creative, resourceful problem-solving.
Jan Vandenabeele
Senior Director Forestry
Jan, a Belgian forester and agronomist, has 40 years of global experience in project management and implementation. As Senior Director at BGF, his expertise and network have been key to pioneering dryland afforestation in East Africa. He also leads Miti magazine as Editor-in-Chief across Kenya, Uganda, and Tanzania.
Lawrence Mulandi
Chief Finance and Operations Officer
Lawrence joined BGF as an accountant and rose to Chief Finance and Operations Officer, steering its financial growth. He holds an MBA in strategic management and is pursuing a PhD in finance. A CPA (K) and certified internal auditor, he now serves as board observer.
Samuel Nakhone
Chief Forestry Officer
Forestry expert with 15+ years of experience in sustainable land use, carbon project development, and MRV. Proven success in East Africa across ARR, commercial forestry, and international standards (Verra VM0047, Gold Standard). Led innovation and impact-driven work at Better Globe Forestry, integrating carbon finance and co-benefit strategies.
Claudiah Caroline Deprins
Executive Director of Communications
Claudiah has over a decade of experience in public relations at Better Globe Forestry. Starting in 2011 as a Partnerships Coordinator, she rose to Deputy Director of Communications by 2022. Her adaptability and innovation have been key to BGF’s communication success.
Lydia Kathure Kubai
Executive Director of Human Resources
Lydia joined Better Globe Forestry in 2018, transitioning from finance to HR with ease. Now Deputy Director of Human Resources, she leads key people-focused initiatives, playing a vital role in the company’s success.