Interview Spotlight With Francesca Rutaiwa

Francesca Rutaiwa is a self-motivated human resources and strategic management professional with years of leadership experience in multinational organisations. Experienced in starting up and developing HR functions in alignment with business values and objectives. Solid history of implementing HR policies/procedures, cross-functional innovative systems and processes to increase employee engagement and enhance productivity by applying tools and methodologies acquired from her MBA in Management Consultancy and CIPD. Adept in data driven decision-making and business management acumen to implement cost effective technical solutions. Strong stakeholder and project management skills, with a keen eye for detail and an effective ability to manage ambiguity and integrate teams. Passionate about improving organisational culture and efficiency, with a focus on wellbeing, and promoting diversity & inclusion with an agile approach to deliver as required in any given business environment.

Francesca is passionate about contributing to empowering others including their communities, which she has demonstrated in her private & professional life, by contributing in activities/causes that align with her passion. This includes volunteering in charities, running an HR consultation and Health & Wellness coaching service, launching the Health & Wellness Global Network London Chapter as the President of the London Chapter, and being an ambassador of the Future Females organisation.

Francesca’s drive derives from various experiences and the ethos that once you realise what makes you feel fulfilled, you will discover your purpose.

Thank you for interviewing with us today, can you introduce yourself to us?

I’m an HR & Recruitment professional with an MBA in Management Consultancy. I’ve had the opportunity to work in multinational organisations across different industries within the public & private sector for 17 years. My experience has broadened my perspective and developed my ability to adapt quickly to change, which has been the core of my success throughout my career.

Can you take us through your journey to where you are now?

I started working in my teens when I was studying in Oxford. That’s when I discovered I could multitask, and have been working and studying since. Although I started working at a young age to sustain myself, throughout my career I’ve realised that my experience in different industries at various levels, has developed my ability to quickly identify effective and ineffective business models. Throughout my career I’ve been able to apply these skills and implement systems, processes and procedures which effectively improves operations and organisation culture.

I developed a passion for Health and Wellness when I personally decided to live a healthy lifestyle in my first corporate job as an Event’s Manager in a multinational organisation. It was a stressful role, but once I decided to improve my health I noticed that my productivity boosted and I was able to perform beyond expectations. As I studied Business Studies in University, there were a range of modules that developed the fundamental knowledge and skills required in most areas of a business. Due to this, I was confident to perform effectively in any role I commit to. Eventually I secured a role in a multinational Energy company as an HR Manager. I was responsible for starting up and developing the HR department, which was a challenge ( I love a challenge! ). Fortunately I was studying my MBA in Management Consultancy while working as an HR Manager, which gave me tools to create an effective HR framework and develop an efficient department with a focus on employee’s wellbeing.

I then moved on to study a CIPD HR certificate to develop my HR knowledge while working in HR in other organizations. During my HR journey I identified key factors some businesses overlooked to run efficiently, so I set up an HR Consultancy, which included Health & Wellness Coaching, which I believe should be prioritized in every business that wants to succeed.

I was later offered an opportunity to further develop my skills in HR and Recruitment from leading businesses in Recruitment and the Health/BioPharma Industry. Therefore I decided to put my consultation on hold to embark on new pastures. Although the decision was bitter sweet, I’m delighted to contribute in organisations that value my skills and enable me to obtain more knowledge, tools and experience, which I’ll incorporate in my consultancy services when I resume my business in the future.

Since starting, have you made any changes to your business model?

I’ve decided to put the business on hold while I develop my knowledge and skills further within the Health Industry.

Have you ever had a mentor? If so how has this benefitted you either personally or professionally?

I have a mentor both personally and professionally. They initially introduced UltraCell products that boosted my immune system when the pandemic started. Following that we had several meetings and they gradually became my mentors as they not only enriched me with life skills but they gave me the confidence to take on challenges that I probably may have not considered to attempt.

What outlets do use for marketing?

When I was running the HR consultation and coaching business, I used social media and a global health & wellness platform.

What or Who has inspired you most recently?

Michelle Obama’s book ‘Becoming’ inspired me most recently. Her experiences resonated with me, and she proved that staying true to yourself, with hard work and dedication, you will succeed.

What is the best piece of business advice you have received to date?

“To build trust, it takes years & to lose trust it takes seconds.”  This amplifies the importance of integrity and patience.

How do you create an evenly balanced work and personal life?

By scheduling my work and hobbies and setting reminders on my phone.  I ensure I meet my work deadlines but not at my health’s expense. I’m also aware that I am more productive when I get involved in various activities.

Name a seminal point in your career so far?

Being the President of the London Chapter of the Global Health & Wellness Network of Commerce.

What gives you ultimate career satisfaction?

My ultimate career satisfaction is being able to apply my knowledge and skills in objectives that align with my values and purpose, which is contributing to develop and empower the lives of others and their communities.  Overall, making a positive impact in individual’s lives and their communities.

Are there any leading entrepreneurs or SME leaders that you admire and if so, why?

I admire Richard Branson, as he has built an empire effectively and has always stayed humble and acknowledged the value of his workforce. He has also demonstrated the leadership skills I believe are required to ensure a productive and satisfied workforce.

How do you define your own success?

My surname is ‘Rutaiwa,’ which in my language means – invincible, enduring,

someone who never gives up. This defines my success in a nutshell.

Finally, what can we expect from you next?

Resuming and building my HR Consultancy and Health & Wellness Coaching service to a global level.

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