She Means Business: Esther Waititu’s Journey from Serving Coffee to Leading M-PESA

Esther Waititu, the Chief Financial Services Officer at Safaricom, has become a prominent figure in the corporate world, often referred to as “Mama M-PESA.” Her journey from humble beginnings to the top echelons of one of Kenya’s largest companies is a testament to hard work, resilience, and the power of meaningful relationships. As we dive into her story, it becomes clear that her achievements extend beyond her professional role; they also reflect her dedication to family and community.

Early Life and Career Beginnings

Before stepping into the spotlight of Safaricom, Esther had a modest start. Raised in a family that valued education and hard work, she learned essential life lessons from her mother. Esther’s mother instilled in her the importance of financial responsibility, often emphasizing the significance of saving and investing wisely. This advice, which she recalls vividly, laid the groundwork for Esther’s financial acumen later in her career.

Her career began in the banking sector, where she spent over a decade developing her skills and building a strong foundation in finance. While working in banking, Esther learned the intricacies of financial services, understanding both the operational and customer service aspects. This experience was invaluable, equipping her with the knowledge and skills necessary to thrive in the corporate world.

Transitioning to Safaricom

After nearly 17 years in banking, Esther made a bold decision to transition to Safaricom, a move that would prove to be pivotal in her career. Joining the telco industry presented unique challenges, but Esther embraced them with enthusiasm. The fast-paced environment of a technology-driven company was different from her banking background, but Esther’s adaptability and eagerness to learn allowed her to quickly find her footing.

As Chief Financial Services Officer, Esther oversees M-PESA, one of Africa’s most successful mobile money platforms. Under her leadership, M-PESA has not only transformed financial services in Kenya but has also expanded its reach across the continent. Esther’s ability to navigate complex regulatory landscapes and innovate within the financial sector has been crucial in maintaining M-PESA’s leadership position in the market.

Balancing Professional and Family Life

One of the most striking aspects of Esther’s journey is her commitment to family. As a mother of twin daughters, she understands the challenges of balancing a demanding career with family responsibilities. Esther emphasizes that being a mother is one of her proudest achievements.

Finding a balance between her professional goals and family commitments has been a journey of trial and error. She often reflects on the importance of prioritizing time with her children, ensuring that she remains present in their lives despite her busy schedule. Esther believes that this balance has made her a more effective leader, as it allows her to approach challenges with a clearer mindset and a greater sense of purpose.

Navigating the C-Suite

Esther’s rise to the C-suite was not without challenges. She often speaks about the hard work and dedication required to reach this level in her career. It took her 17 years to get to her current position, highlighting the importance of persistence and commitment in achieving professional goals.

One key aspect of Esther’s success has been her focus on meaningful networking. She recognizes that many of the opportunities she has had throughout her career were made possible through connections she forged along the way. Building relationships with mentors, colleagues, and industry leaders has provided Esther with invaluable insights and opportunities for growth.

Networking, she explains, is not just about meeting people; it’s about nurturing those relationships and finding ways to support one another. Esther encourages others, especially women, to invest time in networking, as it can open doors and create opportunities that may not be immediately apparent.

The Importance of Financial Literacy

As a leader in the financial services industry, Esther is passionate about promoting financial literacy, particularly among women. She believes that understanding financial principles is crucial for empowerment and independence. Esther advocates for education and awareness, emphasizing the importance of making informed financial decisions.

Esther’s mother’s advice to save and invest wisely has become a guiding principle in her own life. She often shares this lesson with others, stressing the importance of investing in assets that generate passive income rather than depreciating assets. This approach not only fosters financial stability but also allows individuals to build wealth over time.

A Passion for Basketball

Beyond her professional responsibilities, Esther is also a passionate basketball fan. She is thrilled about Safaricom’s recent partnership with the National Basketball Association (NBA) Africa. During our interview, Esther expressed her excitement about the potential impact of this partnership on the local basketball scene and the opportunities it will create for young athletes in Kenya.

Her love for basketball is a testament to her belief in the importance of community engagement. Esther understands that supporting local initiatives, especially in sports and education, can have a profound impact on the lives of individuals and the community as a whole. She encourages other businesses to invest in community-driven initiatives, as they not only benefit society but also contribute to the overall growth and reputation of the company.

Conclusion

Esther Waititu’s journey from serving coffee to becoming the Chief Financial Services Officer at Safaricom is an inspiring story of determination, resilience, and leadership. Her commitment to balancing family life with a successful career, combined with her passion for financial literacy and community engagement, serves as a model for aspiring leaders, especially women, in the corporate world.

As she continues to break barriers in the financial services sector, Esther is not just a role model for women in business but also a beacon of hope for anyone striving to achieve their goals. Her story reminds us that success is not solely defined by titles or positions but by the impact we have on our families, communities, and industries.

Through her journey, Esther demonstrates that with hard work, meaningful connections, and a commitment to lifelong learning, anyone can navigate the path to success in the C-suite and beyond.