I used to earn 20 bob packing seedlings, now I’m a CEO

Executive Cv - Major Boke Kitangita, CEO Jeff Hamilton Ltd

Education: Masters of business administration at the University of Nairobi, specialised in strategic management. Bachelors degree from Kenyatta University, Education Physics/Mathematics; diploma in security management from Egerton University and a certificate in Military Science from Egerton University. Currently, pursuing a PhD in strategic business management.

Experience: I worked with the Kenya Air Force for 10 years, served as a Major, then later served as the production manager for the bullet Factory. I shifted to corporate and worked for KICC for 5 years. I am currently working at Jeff Hamilton Ltd as the CEO.

First job/salary: I worked with Miwani Sugar Company as a farm hand, weeding sugarcane. That was in 1992 and I earned Sh235 a week and Sh35 a day. 

Worst/best job: I don’t know if I should call it worst job or the most challenging job.  I worked with BAT in their tree nurseries and I was paid 50 bob to fill 500 satchels in a nursery. In a day, I would fill maybe 200 and that means I got Sh20 pay. My expenses were more than the 20 bob. 

Worst mistake: I resigned from the Kenya Air Force few weeks before I became pensionable. I think I should have stayed the few weeks, then I’d be enjoying my pension today. 

Missed opportunity: I should have cleared my doctorate studies back when I had the energy.

Unforgettable person: My dad, the sacrifice he did to ensure that I got a decent education regardless of having not gone to school himself.

Best advice: It was from my elder brother: He adviced me to honour and take of my parents regardless of whether or not they deserve it. Focus much on family unity.