Waceke Nduati Reflects on Passing the CEO Baton at Centonomy, Emphasizes the Importance of Evolving in Business

For many entrepreneurs, knowing when to step back from the day-to-day operations of a business they built from the ground up is a daunting decision.

For Waceke Nduati, founder and former CEO of Centonomy, the choice to pass on the baton was not an easy one. However, it was a decision that allowed her to focus on the areas of the business she is most passionate about and, in her words, “was a good one.”

Speaking on She Means Business, Nduati shared her journey of transitioning out of the CEO role at Centonomy, a leading financial education company she nurtured from its start-up phase.

“It wasn’t easy to let go,” she admits. “But I realized that staying in a position or focusing on parts of the business that no longer served me was not helping either the business or me.”

She stressed that a common mistake many founders make is holding on to aspects of their business for too long, even when it’s clear they are no longer working. Instead of evolving and restrategizing, they hold on to what’s familiar, which can stunt both personal and business growth.

For Nduati, the decision to step into a new phase of leadership was crucial. She now focuses on the creative side of the business, finding fulfillment in projects that ignite her passion.

“I’m more fulfilled now that I can focus on the parts of the business that truly energize me,” Nduati explains. “Being able to step back allowed me to find new avenues to contribute, and it has made me more effective in the work I do.”

In her reflection, Nduati also emphasized the importance of having trusted individuals who can offer sound advice. She believes that walking the entrepreneurial journey with people who can provide objective feedback is key to knowing when to pivot or let go of certain aspects of the business.

“It’s crucial to have a support system that isn’t afraid to tell you the truth about what’s working and what’s not,” she advises.

As she focuses on the creative aspects of Centonomy, Nduati says she feels more aligned with her passions and purpose, leading to greater satisfaction in her work.

She encourages fellow entrepreneurs to embrace change and evolve with their businesses, rather than getting stuck in roles or responsibilities that no longer bring them joy or growth.

To hear more about Waceke Nduati’s entrepreneurial journey, watch the full episode of She Means Business.