This archive report was first published on 10 July 2020.
From Classroom to CEO ¶
July 10, 2020
Wambui Mbarire, a former teacher, has made a remarkable transition from the classroom to the boardroom. As the CEO of the Retail Trade Association of Kenya, she has become a voice for the retail sector, creating a bridge between various stakeholders and advocating for the interests of retailers.
With a background in accounting and human resources, Mbarire has spent 15 years in management, working in different organizations, including Retrak for the past seven years. Her journey from teaching to management has been a deliberate one, driven by her passion for people and her desire to make a meaningful impact.
When asked about her highlights, Mbarire mentions her role in transitioning companies from manual systems to system-based systems, as well as her work in bringing the retail sector together. She is proud of her achievements and is committed to continuing her work in the sector.
Despite her busy schedule, Mbarire finds time for her family and enjoys cooking, walking, and traveling with her children. She is also passionate about pre-marital mentorship and believes that it is essential for couples to discuss their expectations and backgrounds before entering into marriage.
As she looks to the future, Mbarire has several goals, including expanding her cooking repertoire, doing more outdoor activities with her children, and formalizing her girls' mentorship project. She also hopes to start a financial management course and explore consultancy opportunities.
