Kelvin Rugwiji

MBA 2020, Zimbabwe

“A good head and good heart are always a formidable combination, but when you add to that a literate tongue or pen, then you have something very special.” – Nelson Mandela

I am currently a Group Chief Financial Officer for Chippa Group of Companies in South Africa. Chippa Group is an SME, which consists of companies in various sectors such as construction, manufacturing, football (professional football club), security, hospitality and waste management. My role as a Group CFO is to develop, implement and drive financial strategy, tax planning, cash flow management, project appraisal, and evaluation, financing decisions, and financial reporting, just to mention a few.

My hobbies are outdoor activities (hiking, scenic drive), reading, and going to the gym.

Achievements

Becoming a Chartered Management Accountant (ACMA CGMA) through the CIMA qualification and progressing on to become a Group CFO at 27 years old will always be my top professional achievement. Since becoming the Group CFO, the group has experienced yearly growth in revenue and profitability and l successfully stabilized the cashflow problems in some of the companies. Leading the financial strategy of a multi-million-rand hospital construction project, the company completed the project on time and below the budget which in turn resulted in a high project return for the company.

What attracted you to the Kent MBA programme and why?

Before my Kent MBA programme application, through LinkedIn l contacted former Kent MBA students for their opinions about the teaching style and quality of program delivery and they were all happy with their experience with Kent Business School and gave positive reviews. Also, I was impressed that I could earn the CMI Level 7 Diploma in Strategic Management and Leadership on successful completion of the MBA. In addition, the KBS is accredited by the AACSB. Studying abroad provides a great grounding to further experience divergent cultures and exchange knowledge. It seemed like the ideal choice.

What were your motivations for undertaking an MBA?

An MBA has a long-standing positive reputation across a range of industries. One of the most motivations for studying for an MBA is aligned with all aspects of career progression.

Aspirations

This program is a solid step towards my future career as a businessperson who understands and appreciates all pillars required to drive the business forward. I hope to learn essential skills to grow my own business and acquire a diverse set of knowledge, continue growing on the corporate ladder, increase opportunities and earnings and develop networking and strategic leadership skills.

Advice: Do it right the first time, give everything your best and have faith in yourself.