In the intricate world of finance, few leaders have made as profound an impact as Dr. Kenneth Maundu, the Chief Finance Officer at Eclectics International Limited. With a career spanning over two decades, Dr. Maundu’s journey is a testament to the power of relentless dedication, continuous learning, and unwavering integrity. His story is one of rising through the ranks, overcoming challenges, and driving transformative change in the financial sector.
From Humble Beginnings to Financial Mastery
Dr. Maundu’s ascent to the role of CFO at Eclectics International Limited is a tale of perseverance and growth. “I have had the opportunity to work in various positions in Finance and Accounting in diverse industries,” he shares.
From starting as an Accounts Assistant to becoming a Chief Finance Officer, his career trajectory is marked by continuous education and adaptation to industry advancements. He holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Accounting, a Master’s Degree in Business Administration (Finance), and a Doctorate in Business Administration. Additionally, he is a Certified Public Accountant (CPA Kenya) and a Lead Auditor and Trainer in multiple ISO standards. His journey is a reflection of his commitment to excellence and his ability to navigate the complexities of the financial world.
Choosing Eclectics International
When asked why he chose Eclectics International, Dr. Maundu explains, “I have always wanted to rise to higher levels that would enable me to supplement my extensive expertise with strategic management thinking and operational know-how.”
Eclectics International, a Pan-African company serving over 244 financial institutions across 25 countries, provided the perfect platform for him to leverage his skills and drive impactful change. The company’s vision and mission aligned perfectly with Dr. Maundu’s professional aspirations, making it an ideal environment for him to thrive and contribute meaningfully.
Rewarding Moments
Reflecting on his career, Dr. Maundu highlights the corporate celebration of wins achieved through collective effort as some of the most rewarding moments. “Celebrating a commercial contract that has been closed by a colleague or making a corporate decision involving everyone to combat challenges like COVID-19 is very rewarding,” he explains. These moments of shared success not only boost morale but also reinforce the importance of teamwork and collaboration in achieving organizational goals.
“Never give in – never, never, never, never, in nothing great or small, large or petty, never give in…” “Quit” was a four-letter profanity.” – Winston Churchill
Conquering Challenges and Leading with Purpose
One of the significant challenges Dr. Maundu faced was dealing with a major fraud case while working for a multinational organization. “Fraud cases require swift action to prevent the good workplace atmosphere and professional culture from crumbling down,” he explains. His approach involved gathering information without making onset accusations, ensuring the accused had the right to a proper defense, and making swift decisions while adhering to legal guidelines and corporate procedures. His ability to navigate such complex situations with integrity and decisiveness has been a hallmark of his leadership.
As the Chief Finance Officer at Eclectics International Limited, Dr. Maundu’s responsibilities are extensive. He supervises and aligns departmental transactional programs to corporate strategic objectives, reports to the Managing Director and executive management team, and acts as the chief financial spokesperson for the organization.
“I lead efforts to secure new funding sources to support company initiatives and manage risk to ensure sustainable growth,” Dr. Maundu explains. His role is pivotal in driving the financial health and strategic direction of the company, ensuring that it remains competitive and resilient in a rapidly changing market.
Staying Ahead: Trends and the Future of Finance
To stay updated with the latest trends and developments in finance and technology, Dr. Maundu dedicates significant time to reading relevant publications, engaging in LinkedIn forums, and networking with professionals. He is also a member of several professional organizations that offer value through seminars, conferences, and workshops. “I have subscribed to professional forums such as CFO.com, which give me weekly insights and advice for CFOs,” he shares. By staying informed and connected, he ensures that he is always at the forefront of industry advancements and best practices.
Looking ahead, Dr. Maundu sees the finance function evolving rapidly with technological advancements, demographic shifts, and the increasing use of artificial intelligence. “Finance teams must look ahead and ensure they monitor and measure sustainable business model goals to remain relevant in the next decade,” he asserts.
Dr. Maundu believes that the role of the CFO will continue to evolve beyond traditional reporting functionalities to encompass wider value creation and management. His vision for the future is one where finance professionals are equipped with the skills and knowledge to drive innovation and sustainability in their organizations.
Mastering Work-Life Harmony: Dr. Maundu’s Secrets
Throughout his career, Dr. Maundu has been guided by a set of core values that shape his decisions and actions. “Integrity, commitment, sacrifice, and celebrating corporate achievement rather than self are some of the values that describe who I am,” he asserts.
Maintaining a healthy work-life balance is crucial for Dr. Maundu. He believes in setting realistic goals and practicing effective time management to achieve equilibrium between personal fulfillment and professional responsibilities. “I have learned to establish clear boundaries between work and personal time to preserve mental and spiritual health,” he explains. His supportive network of family, church, mentors, friends, and colleagues plays a significant role in helping him maintain this balance. By prioritizing his well-being and that of his loved ones, he remains grounded and focused on what truly matters.
Dr. Maundu employs several strategies to maintain this balance. He emphasizes defining career ambitions alongside personal values, subscribing to effective time management, and knowing when to say no.
Additionally, he stays connected to the values of the Bible, which helps him maintain a big-picture perspective on life. After a busy day, Dr. Maundu finds solace in listening to gospel music, reading motivational books, and watching action-packed movies. By engaging in activities that nourish his mind, body, and spirit, he maintains high levels of energy and enthusiasm in both his personal and professional life.
“After all is said and done, when the dust settles, we all win” – Pastor of Elijah Centre and President of Congress
Advice for Young Professionals
For young professionals aspiring to enter the finance industry, Dr. Maundu emphasizes the importance of continuous learning and staying current on the latest trends. “Remain curious and open to new knowledge and skills, build and cultivate strong professional networks, and engage in continuous learning by attending workshops and seeking further certifications,” he advises.
Dr. Maundu’s guidance reflects his belief in the potential of the next generation to shape the future of finance through dedication, innovation, and ethical leadership.
Conclusion
Dr. Kenneth Maundu’s journey is a remarkable example of how dedication, continuous learning, and adherence to core values can lead to a successful and fulfilling career. As the Chief Finance Officer at Eclectics International Limited, he continues to drive impactful changes and inspires future generations of finance professionals. His story is a testament to the power of perseverance and the importance of maintaining a balance between professional responsibilities and personal fulfillment.
Through his leadership, Dr. Maundu is not only transforming the financial landscape but also setting a standard for excellence and integrity in the industry.
