There is no need to introduce outgoing Davis & Shirtliff CEO David Gatende who, after 36 years of service, retires this month. Not only is David well known in corporate circles in Kenya, but also the wider region as a business leader, man of faith and, in his early days, as the Captain of the Kenya National Squash team.
Born in 1962 in Nairobi to the late Dr Isaac Gatumbi, the first Kenyan surgeon, and Jane Wambui Gatende, who is alive and well and still farms in Ndakaini, David schooled at Kilimani Primary, Lenana School then Canada’s Mcgill University, where we took a BSc in Agricultural Engineering. A serial learner, he has also acquired a Diploma in Marketing, a Masters in Psychology, an MBA, and several other qualifications.
Happily married to wife Laimani, David has three daughters and a grand-daughter. In addition to being a top flight sportsman, he is a keen outdoorsman, hiker and mountaineer. He also appreciates the arts, literature and live performances. In the future he plans to continue being active in mentorship and coaching, contributing to society and building something in memory of his late father.
David’s initial contact with David & Shirtliff came from looking the company up in a business directory and having a positive experience on his first visit to the company’s then only site at Dundori Road. What he likes most about the company now, despite the fact that it has changed beyond recognition, is that it fulfills its purpose of improving people’s lives. He has been group CEO for the last six years.
Of his philosophy, David cites Soren Kirkegard, and notes that although life can only be understood backwards, it must be lived forwards. He concedes that life can be difficult but with hard work and discipline, anyone can make the best of the cards they are dealt. He describes himself as someone who values leadership, integrity and commitment but who, above all, will seek to honour God through everything he does and then to step aside to let others carry on. – Adapted from D&S newsletter.
