Francis Musyoka, 38, should have been a doctor but life happened.
“While waiting to join university with the two-year gap after high school, my parents suggested I enroll at Strathmore University’s School of Accountancy to keep me busy. I found accounting interesting and easy to grasp which shifted my focus away from medical school,” says Francis.
He would then end up working as a part-time accountant at GreenForest Foods. But he will tell you his career best began at KPMG East Africa where he advanced from a senior tax adviser to manager of tax services at the accountancy, audit and tax advisory firm.
He gained international experience in transfer pricing when he was attached to KPMG US in Chigaco.
"For me, success is all about financial security and the freedom to control my time. Beyond that it’s about building a legacy for my community and family."
“Participating in the KPMG Chicago Tax Trek programme in 2013 is one of the significant moments in my career. While a lucrative US career was tempting, I couldn’t resist the strong urge of coming back home to exploit the vast potential of Africa. Here, I’m surrounded with opportunities and a chance to make a real impact.”
In March 2022, serving as a regional tax manager at GardaWorld, he became the acting Managing Director in Zambia.
“That was a defining moment that led to my current role. These experiences have taught me to fail quickly and use those lessons learned to drive transformation. I have certainly had my share of mistakes, both in my personal life and career-wise, but the most important thing is to learn from them quickly and move forward. This mindset has been a key game-changer in my improvement.”
At KPMG, his main role was advising clients. Tables turned when he joined GardaWorld, one of the world’s largest private security companies.
“Joining its ranks has seen me transition from advising clients to implementing strategies and while at it I have experienced different working cultures. In Zambia, the working environment is hierarchical as opposed to Kenya, which fosters a more assertive, questioning and collaborative approach. These experiences have immensely impacted my leadership journey.”
Impatience is one of his traits that does manifest in his leadership style. “Oh yes! I have discovered that through my personality tests for work, I am very analytical, detail-oriented, impatient and persistent about a challenge.”
For Francis, success is all about two things and or a combination of both.
“Financial security and the freedom to control my time. Beyond that it’s about building a legacy for my community and family.”
Away from work, he is “quite skilled behind the grill. I enjoy hosting and making great barbecues.”