S5:EP11: The Career Dilemma - The Executive Table with Mary Wamae.

Twitter (X) - x.com/wangari_...
LinkedIn - / wangari-wamae
Facebook - / wangariwamae
TikTok - / wangari_wamae
Instagram - / wangari_wamae
Email - [e-mail]
Telephone - ([phone]
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
The Executive Table with Mary Wamae - Medicine Calls Again
Dr. Githinji sat across from me, recounting a pivotal moment in his career with clarity and precision. He had just joined Nation Media Group, returning from South Africa, and was fully immersed in restructuring distribution systems when an unexpected opportunity arose. A U.S.-based organization was searching for a regional director for East Africa, and a former colleague from GSK had recommended him. Though he had only recently started at Nation, he agreed to listen.
At the time, video conferencing was not widespread. To attend the interview, he had to travel to Kabete, the only location with a video conferencing facility. He waited outside, as others were also using the space. When his turn came, he entered, connected with the interviewers in the U.S., and underwent the screening process. Shortly after, he was offered the position.
The new role was enticing. It offered more flexibility, a higher salary, and aligned with his passion for social impact. His responsibility would be to oversee efforts ensuring that children born with cleft conditions received free surgery across Africa. However, there was an immediate challenge-he had just started at Nation Media Group, and his resignation was not welcomed.
His boss outright refused to accept his resignation. He described how his letter was returned to him with “rejected” written on it, making it clear that he was expected to stay. Discussions followed, with his employer insisting on his value to the company and encouraging him to reconsider.
Faced with this dilemma, Dr. Githinji explored an alternative. He communicated with the organization in New York, and together they reached an agreement. Instead of leaving Nation Media Group immediately, he would take on the Smile Train role in a flexible capacity. To ensure operations continued effectively, he allocated a portion of his salary to hire a small team, including a doctor and an office assistant, to manage daily tasks.
For five years, he balanced both roles, contributing to Nation Media Group’s growth while driving Smile Train’s mission. When he was finally ready to transition fully, he mentored a successor, ensured smooth operations, and formally exited Nation Media Group at the end of 2011. By this time, Smile Train recognized his contributions and elevated him to the position of Vice President for Africa.
His account was marked by strategic decision-making, adaptability, and an unwavering commitment to both professional excellence and social impact.