Japan Tobacco International (JTI) has appointed Paul Hennessy as general manager for North and West Africa. Hennessy brings over 20 years of experience with JTI to the role, having joined the company in the United Kingdom in 2002 through its graduate program. He has held various senior positions, including finance director in Poland and vice president of finance for Eastern Europe and Global Travel Retail. His new role involves overseeing the performance of the regional cluster, supporting market development, and working towards growth targets.
Hennessy's appointment comes as JTI expands its industrial presence across North and West Africa, with Morocco playing a central role in the company's regional operations. The company selected Morocco as its North African management hub in 2011 and extended its regional responsibilities to West Africa in 2022. Morocco's infrastructure and visibility were cited as advantages for JTI's operations. The company has invested $100 million in an environmentally responsible factory at Tetouan Park, aiming to turn its Moroccan management hub into a regional industrial center by the end of 2025.
JTI's new model aims to strengthen its domestic market while positioning Morocco as an industrial base for supplying products and production expertise to other markets in the region. The company markets its products in over 130 countries and employs nearly 46,000 people worldwide. Its international cigarette brands include Winston, Camel, MEVIUS, and LD. JTI also operates in the vaping and heated tobacco markets through brands including Logic and Ploom.
Headquartered in Geneva, Switzerland, JTI received the Global Top Employer distinction for the 12th consecutive year in 2026. In Morocco, the company also received Top Employer certification for the 10th consecutive year in 2026 and ranked first among certified employers in the country for the fifth consecutive year. Its brands sold in the Moroccan market include Camel, Winston, Glamour, and LD.
Paul Hennessy will help lead the transition of JTI's Moroccan management hub into a regional industrial center. He previously served as general manager in Canada, leading JTI's operations there. His responsibilities will also include supporting teams and implementing JTI's strategic priorities. Hennessy's experience in various roles within JTI has prepared him for the challenges of his new position.
Morocco is expected to play a significant role in JTI's regional business, with the company coordinating its activities across 12 markets in North and West Africa. The country's infrastructure and visibility make it an ideal location for JTI's operations. The company has been present in Morocco for several years and has made significant investments in the country.
JTI's expansion in Morocco and West Africa is part of its growth strategy, with the company aiming to increase its presence in the region. The appointment of Paul Hennessy as general manager for North and West Africa is a key part of this strategy. With his experience and expertise, Hennessy is well-positioned to lead JTI's regional operations and drive growth in the area.
Key points
- Paul Hennessy appointed as JTI's general manager for North and West Africa
- Morocco to play central role in JTI's regional operations
- JTI invests $100 million in environmentally responsible factory in Morocco
