Marion Gathoga, Managing Director of Inchcape Kenya Limited, is a woman who commands respect without seeking to draw attention to herself. As the daughter of a policeman, Gathoga has always preferred a low-key approach, often finding herself underestimated by those who don't know her. However, this approach belies a sharp mind and a deep sense of purpose, which has driven her to succeed in her career. With a background that includes stints at Bayer and Standard Media Group, Gathoga has developed a unique perspective on leadership and work-life integration.
Gathoga's thoughts are currently consumed by the concept of freedom and how it relates to her career and personal life. She reflects on the need to shake off the constraints of daily life and discover what truly matters. For Gathoga, this means finding a balance between her work and personal life, a challenge many people can relate to. Her approach to this challenge is to focus on work-life integration, rather than trying to achieve a strict balance between the two. This approach involves being fully present in whatever she is doing, whether it's work or family time.
One of Gathoga's favorite ways to unwind is playing golf, a hobby she took up 25 years ago while working at Bayer. She finds that golf helps her clear her mind and focus on the present moment. However, she also acknowledges that her busy schedule has affected her game, and she's keen to improve her skills again. Gathoga's love of golf is just one example of how she prioritizes her personal interests and makes time for them, even in the midst of a demanding career.
As a working mother of three, Gathoga is acutely aware of the challenges of balancing work and family life. She emphasizes the importance of being present for her children, even if it means being available to them in different ways at different times. Gathoga's approach to motherhood has been shaped by her own experiences and values, and she's learned to be more empathetic and understanding as her children have grown and developed their own interests and personalities.
Gathoga's career has taken her to various leadership roles, including her current position as MD of Inchcape Kenya Limited. She reflects on the challenges of being a CEO, particularly during times of crisis or change. For Gathoga, leadership is about being neutral, fair, and intentional, and she takes her responsibilities seriously. Her experience as Group CEO at Standard Media Group was particularly demanding, but it also taught her valuable lessons about leadership and resilience.
Despite the demands of her career, Gathoga is committed to giving back to her community. As a trustee of the Palm House, she's been involved in educating over 1,000 children over the past 24 years. This work is close to her heart, and she finds it deeply rewarding. Gathoga's commitment to community service is just one example of how she lives her values and prioritizes her personal growth and development.
For Gathoga, personal growth and being a CEO are closely linked. She believes that leadership demands a high level of self-awareness and emotional intelligence, and she's committed to ongoing learning and development. As she looks to the future, Gathoga is focused on continuing to grow and develop as a leader, while also prioritizing her personal well-being and relationships.
Key points
- Marion Gathoga emphasizes the importance of work-life integration, rather than trying to achieve a strict balance between work and personal life.
- Gathoga prioritizes being present for her children and makes time for her personal interests, such as playing golf.
- As a leader, Gathoga believes in being neutral, fair, and intentional, and takes her responsibilities seriously.
