We are excited to welcome Kenja McArthur to the Europe M&A team as our newest Senior Strategy Associate. With a background spanning business analytics, strategy and digital transformation across the corporate and investment banking sector, Kenja brings a unique blend of international experience, analytical strength and strategic insight to the team.
In this Q&A, we get to know more about Kenja, her journey and what drew her to Vesta.
Tell us a bit about yourself and your background
I’m originally from South Africa, and although I grew up there, German was actually my first language. Just over a year ago, I moved to the UK to pursue an MBA at Cranfield University – which I’m very proud to say I’ve now completed.
My professional background is rooted in Business Analytics and Strategy. Before my MBA, I worked in the corporate & investment banking digital team at one of Africa’s largest banks. During that time, I gained invaluable experience in building and scaling platform businesses, and developed a strong appreciation for how technology, data and strategy come together to create impact.
What made you choose Vesta as the next step in your career?
After completing my MBA, I knew I wanted to grow into a strategic role, ideally one where I could make use of my second language as well. I’m very grateful that Vesta offered me the chance to do exactly that. From the moment I engaged with the team, Vesta stood out as open, collaborative and genuinely innovative. It’s a hands-on environment where new joiners are trusted with meaningful responsibilities and where growth is supported at every step. It felt like the right place to contribute, learn, and stretch myself – so joining Vesta was an easy decision.
What do you enjoy doing outside of work?
I’m a certified culinary chef, so unsurprisingly, you’ll often find me in the kitchen experimenting with new recipes or baking something sweet. Gelato is my absolute favourite food – I could happily eat it every day! I also love running, especially when I can take our dog, Skye, along for company. And whenever I can, I spend time with friends and family. Being around the people I love is something I never take for granted and it’s always time well spent.
If you could learn to do anything, what would it be?
I would love to learn how to code!
What are your top three book/podcast recommendations?
There are probably 100 books I could say are in my top 3, but some of my favourites include:
- The Da Vinci Code by Dan Brown
- American Dirt by Jeanine Cummins
- Outliers by Malcom Gladwell
What is your favourite quote?
“As we let our own light shine, we unconsciously give other people permission to do the same.” – Nelson Mandela
