In this fascinating interview, we delve into the remarkable academic and professional journey of a woman whose path from Chemical Engineering to Software Engineering ultimately led her to become a thriving entrepreneur in the world of accounting and payroll services.
Meet Maryanne Jemide, a woman whose entrepreneurial spirit remains undeterred, as she expands her endeavours. With years of experience in diverse industries and an untiring pursuit for continuous learning, her unwavering commitment is all about achieving life balance, with family taking precedence.
IBIENE seeks to find what makes this changemaker tick. Keep scrolling.
IBIENE: What is your perspective on life?
My perspective on life centres around the belief that continuous learning and growth are essential. I see life as a journey where education and self-improvement are the driving forces. By setting meaningful goals and working diligently towards them, I aim to create a fulfilling and purposeful life. At the same time, I recognize the significance of maintaining a balance between my professional pursuits and personal well-being, ensuring that I cherish moments with loved ones and nurture my own physical and mental health. This holistic approach to life empowers me to navigate challenges with resilience and embrace each experience as an opportunity for personal development.
IBIENE: From when you graduated till now, what has your experience been career-wise and what did each role teach you about life?
Throughout my career journey, I’ve embraced a diverse range of roles and industries. My professional voyage commenced as a software engineer, despite having initially pursued a degree in chemical engineering. This unexpected transition was facilitated by my solid foundation in mathematics. Subsequently, I embarked on a new chapter by pursuing professional accounting and tax exams, leading me to establish my own practice. My mathematical background once again played a pivotal role in this endeavour.
As my journey continued, I ventured into multiple business ventures, including real estate, newspapers, and salons. These experiences allowed me to understand different aspects of entrepreneurship, management, and customer engagement.
Recognizing the need for further growth and insight, I pursued an MBA. This educational pursuit was a deliberate step to equip myself with the skills needed to nurture and expand my businesses effectively.
Each phase of my career has taught me valuable lessons. The transition from software engineering to accounting underscored the power of adaptability and leveraging one’s existing strengths. Running diverse businesses imparted wisdom in strategic thinking, risk management, and the importance of a customer-centric approach. Pursuing an MBA reinforced the significance of continuous learning and the ability to apply theoretical knowledge to real-world scenarios.
My journey has been marked by versatility, resilience, and a commitment to learning. Each role, whether unexpected or carefully planned, has contributed to my growth as a professional and an individual, reminding me that diverse experiences enrich our understanding of both business and life.
IBIENE: Your Facebook intro reads; “I help business owners to build value in their business by having a business that works without them.” How do you make that happen?
Business owners have the opportunity to enhance the value of their business and establish a framework where the business can function independently from their continuous engagement through the following actions:
- Efficient Processes and Systems:
Streamline and document your business processes to ensure consistency and efficiency. Well-defined processes make it easier for employees to follow established guidelines and deliver consistent results. This reduces dependency on the owner’s direct involvement in day-to-day operations.
- Delegation and Empowerment:
Delegate tasks and responsibilities to capable team members. Empower your employees by providing clear expectations and the authority to make decisions within their roles. This allows the business owner to focus on higher-level tasks and strategic planning.
- Training and Skill Development:
Invest in training and skill development for your employees. When your team has the necessary skills and knowledge, they can take on more responsibilities and contribute effectively to the business’s success.
- Documentation and Knowledge Sharing:
Document critical information, processes, and best practices. This ensures that essential knowledge is not tied to a single individual. It also facilitates smoother transitions when new team members come on board or when changes occur.
- Automation and Technology:
Leverage automation and technology to handle repetitive tasks and improve operational efficiency. This can free up the owner’s time for strategic decision-making and business growth initiatives.
- Strong Leadership and Culture:
Develop a strong leadership team and foster a positive company culture. A capable leadership team can manage various aspects of the business, while a positive culture attracts and retains skilled employees who are committed to the company’s success.
- Strategic Planning:
Focus on strategic planning and long-term vision. Business owners should spend more time on strategic thinking, exploring growth opportunities, and adapting to market changes, rather than getting bogged down in day-to-day operations.
- Scalable Business Model:
Build a business model that can scale without relying solely on the owner’s involvement. Consider how your business can expand its reach and offerings without increasing the owner’s workload disproportionately.
- Exit and Succession Planning:
If the goal is for the business to eventually operate without the owner’s direct involvement, plan for a smooth transition or exit strategy. This might involve grooming a successor or putting systems in place to ensure business continuity.
- Continuous Improvement:
Regularly review and optimize your business processes. Encourage feedback from employees and customers, and use that input to refine your operations over time.
IBIENE: Give three sustainability business tips to entrepreneurs in these uncertain times.
My three sustainability business tips for entrepreneurs in uncertain times:
- Adapt for Resilience:
In times of uncertainty, businesses need to be agile and adaptable. Embrace sustainability by incorporating circular economy principles. Design products and services with durability, repairability, and reusability in mind. This not only reduces waste but also extends the lifecycle of your offerings, making your business more resilient in the face of disruptions.
- Strengthen Supply Chain Resilience:
Disruptions to supply chains can impact sustainability efforts. Diversify your suppliers and consider local sourcing options to reduce dependencies on distant suppliers. Collaborate closely with your supply chain partners to implement sustainable practices collectively. This approach not only enhances sustainability but also improves your business’s ability to navigate supply chain challenges.
- Transparent Communication and Ethical Branding:
In uncertain times, consumers value transparency and ethical practices. Communicate your sustainability efforts clearly and authentically. Highlight initiatives that address social and environmental concerns. Ethical branding not only builds trust with customers but also attracts like-minded consumers who prioritize businesses that align with their values.
IBIENE: As someone involved in Bilateral trade matters, what are your top three business strategies for going from local to global?
Transitioning from local to global in bilateral trade involves careful planning and strategic execution. Here are three key business strategies to consider:
Market Research and Entry Strategy:
- Thorough Market Research: Conduct comprehensive research on the target international markets. Understand the demand for your products or services, local competition, cultural nuances, regulatory requirements, and potential barriers to entry.
- Market Segmentation: Identify specific segments within the global market that align with your offerings. Tailor your marketing and sales strategies to address the unique needs of each segment.
- Entry Modes: Choose the most suitable entry mode for each market. Options include exporting, licensing, joint ventures, franchises, and establishing subsidiaries. Select the mode that aligns with your business goals and risk tolerance.
Adaptation and Localization:
- Product/Service Adaptation: Tailor your products or services to meet the preferences and needs of the target market. This might involve adjusting features, packaging, pricing, and branding to resonate with local consumers.
- Cultural Sensitivity: Respect cultural differences and adapt your marketing messages and strategies accordingly. Localization extends beyond language to include customs, traditions, and social norms.
- Compliance and Regulations: Understand and comply with international trade regulations, standards, and certifications required in the target markets. Non-compliance can lead to delays and setbacks.
Strategic Partnerships and Networking:
- Local Partnerships: Forge strategic alliances with local distributors, agents, suppliers, or partners who have a strong understanding of the market. Their expertise can help navigate challenges and expedite market entry.
- Trade Associations and Chambers of Commerce: Join relevant trade associations and chambers of commerce in the target market. These platforms provide networking opportunities, market insights, and access to key stakeholders.
- Supply Chain Optimization: Optimize your global supply chain to ensure timely delivery and cost-effective operations. Consider factors such as transportation, customs clearance, and inventory management.
Remember that a successful transition to the global market requires a long-term perspective and flexibility. Be prepared to adapt your strategies based on market feedback and changing circumstances. Additionally, allocate sufficient resources for market expansion, including financial investments, talent acquisition, and technology upgrades.
IBIENE: Which of the Sustainable Development Goals matter to you and why?
Quality Education:
Quality education is the foundation for personal and societal development. It empowers individuals, reduces inequalities, and fosters economic growth. Access to education enables people to make informed decisions and contribute positively to their communities.
IBIENE: What five life lessons would you tell your 15-year-old self?
- Embrace Self-Discovery:
Embrace the journey of self-discovery. Take time to understand your passions, strengths, and values. Don’t be afraid to explore different interests and activities to figure out what truly resonates with you.
- Embrace Failure as Learning:
Failure is a part of growth. Don’t be discouraged by setbacks; instead, view them as opportunities to learn and improve. Embrace challenges, and remember that the lessons learned from failure often contribute to your ultimate success.
- Cultivate Relationships:
Invest time in nurturing meaningful relationships. Build connections with friends, family, mentors, and peers. These relationships provide support, guidance, and a sense of belonging that can be invaluable throughout your life.
- Prioritize Mental and Physical Well-Being:
Your mental and physical health are vital. Take care of yourself by practicing healthy habits, including regular exercise, balanced nutrition, and mindfulness. Prioritizing self-care contributes to your overall well-being and resilience.
- Embrace Change and Adaptability:
Life is full of change, and adaptability is a valuable skill. Embrace new experiences and challenges with an open mind. Being flexible and willing to step out of your comfort zone will help you navigate life’s uncertainties more effectively.
Do you have any question or comment for Mrs. Maryanne Jemide? Do share in the comment section.