Career change decision pays off for business manager Winnie Iyaya

Photo: Winnie Iyaya

BY LILLIAN KIARIE

KENYA: Winnie Iyaya forfeited her dream to be a journalist to follow her passion in business. Years down the line, her decision has borne fruits as she is now the business development manager at Techno Brain, a Kenya-based software development, education and training services provider.

Who is Winnie Iyaya?

I am an enthusiastic go-getter who believes that anything is possible as long as you focus and keep your mind on the goal that you want to achieve. I am also a development manager at Techno Brain tasked with the Business Process Outsourcing Matrix. Techno Brain strives to promote the development of innovation and growth of the Kenya’s software economy, and I am hands-on to ensure this gets done.

What does your work entail?

I am tasked with making brands and products in Techno Brain visible in the market and communicating their strong points.

What is your typical working day like?

On a normal day, I’m in the office by 9am. I make follow-up emails and correspondence and then get to my scheduled meetings.  I attend an event if I have one, or make a plan for the following day. I then evaluate the just-concluded day. I’m in the gym at 6pm.

If you are not working, what are you likely to be doing?

Reading, I have come to find solace in reading books.

When was the last time you fixed a meal for yourself?

Last Thursday. I enjoy my food, which I prepare on rare special occasions to treat myself!

What is your management style?

My management style is based on time. I value someone based on how they manage their time.

What would say is your biggest weakness?

I am loud. Very loud. My whispers are not thought to adhere to the meaning of the word.

If you were not in the position you are currently in, what would you be?

I would have been a journalist — there is power in knowledge and information.

What is the worst part of your job?

Dealing with the not-so-pleasant kind of characters.

What is one things people do not know about you?

I am somewhat shy during presentations, especially to those known to me.

Any hidden gifts?

I am very good at playing golf.

What is your biggest influence in life?

The Bible. I have realised that the Good Book has got everything I need to know healthwise, socially, financially and  spiritually.

What is the worst mistake you have ever made?

I compromised at my place of work and it cost me a fortune. I learnt my lesson.

What talent do you wish you had?

Music. My voice! I need to work on it — I would be earning extra millions.

What do you think is the most overrated virtue in business?

Dedication.

What is the biggest lesson you have learnt so far?

No situation is permanent. We go through issues in life to reveal the stronger aspects of who we are.

Parting shot?

Freedom is not worth having if it does not include freedom to make mistakes.

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