JENNIFER MUSYIMI is a well known figure in the Kenyan construction industry. A quantity surveyor by profession, she is a self-confessed go-getter and stops at nothing to streamline things everywhere she works. We asked her a few questions about her career and the industry.
CKS: Please introduce yourself
JENNIFER: I am Jennifer Musyimi, a quantity surveyor and project manager. I am the currently President of the Institution of Quantity Surveyors of Kenya (IQSK).
I was born in Machakos, where I went to school before joining the University of Nairobi for my first degree. Later on, I enrolled for my Masters.
When did you develop an interest in the construction industry and specifically quantity surveying?
As a student, I never desired to pursue Medicine (a popular career for many students who are good in sciences). I loved Math and Physics and that’s how I ended up in the construction industry, which I totally love. It’s the best thing that happened to me.
Do you have siblings or other relatives who are in the industry who might have inspired you?
I come from a big family of seven, and I’m the first born. None of my family members are in this field but of late there is uptake from my mentees who get inspired by my talks during High School career days.
Take us though your journey as a quantity surveyor and project manager
My journey has been exciting right from my internship days and my first job with Safaricom, where I learnt corporate management skills that aided my big ambition to go for top seats in the industry. I have been a board member at the National Construction Authority (NCA) where I headed several committees and left an indelible mark in setting corporate strategy. Privately, I run a quantity surveying and construction firm where I oversee operations when I’m not busy with leadership at IQSK.
What are some of the most interesting projects you have handled in your career?
I have been involved in the rollout of Java restaurants and Airtel shops, besides several iconic buildings like the one-stop border post in Moyale, Xinhua News Agency headquarters, the Covid Centre for Nairobi Hospital as well as the Kidney Centre for Kenyatta National Hospital.
You are currently President of the Institution of Quantity Surveyors of Kenya (IQSK). What have you been able to achieve during your term so far?
It’s been incredible leading this great institution where I have streamlined operations to serve members better. In addition, I have been instrumental in lobbying for affordable housing projects for our members.
What is your take on the quantity surveying profession in Kenya?
Quantity surveying is a very versatile career that makes you a good fit in the construction industry. The profession is well-regulated for the benefit of the public. It’s no surprise that it’s grown in popularity in schools, with over 2000 practitioners as of today.
Recently there have been murmurs by a section of the Project Management fraternity to the effect that they are being emasculated by fellow professionals especially Architects and Quantity Surveyors. Do you think their concerns are legitimate?
Project management is a great career for those who enjoy taking on project leadership. This means anyone can be a project manager with or without core competence. The concern is to ensure quacks don’t invade this space.
What does Jennifer Musyimi do away from construction sites and BoQ/tenders preparation? How do you unwind? What are your hobbies?
Jen plays golf, and is a mother and loves to hang out with her loved ones whenever there is a chance.
What are your future plans? Do you intend to retire or venture into other activities? How about politics?
Retire? Ulisikia wapi? (where did you get this idea?) I will most likely become a developer so that I can manage bigger teams and ventures. And don’t be surprised if you hear of my appointment as an envoy somewhere!
What can you tell young women who see you as a role model having achieved so much while still young?
Education sets a woman free. Ambition is the fuel that keeps you alive. Get a balance between society dogma and your life goals.
