In life, everyone aims higher; for those looking to climb the corporate ladder,Capital Markets Authority Director Legal and Board Affairs Mariam Musaali says choose your ladder carefully and be kind to those climbing alongside you.
While talking to the CEO East Africa magazine about her career journey, Musaali, who was the Acting Managing Director and the Chief Operating Officer of Zamara Actuaries, Administrators and Consultants Uganda Limited (formerly Alexander Forbes Financial Services Uganda Limited) before re-joining CMA, also tells the women aspiring for leadership: It’s a matter of time, focus on what is important today. Below the is the full the interview
Who is Miriam Musaali?
Miriam is a wife to Jack Musaali. I have been married to Jack for 16 years. A mother to three adorable children, Esther, Mordecai and Jennifer. A daughter to Mr Zadok Ekirapa and Vashti Ekirapa.
What key moments affected your path in life and career?
Joining the CMA in 2004, a month after I completed my post graduate diploma in legal practice was a great decision. The CMA introduced me to a new world of corporate finance and gave me an opportunity to grow as a commercial lawyer.
My decision to study law (Masters in law) at the University of Cambridge in 2005 opened my eyes to the potential within me.
My decision to leave the Authority in 2016 and return in 2020. My decision to leave enabled me to gain exposure in pensions with the biggest pension Administrator in the region (Alexander Forbes) my career took a different turn, in three years I was able to learn about leading a business, sales, leadership and working with teams in different countries to achieve common goals. It was dynamic, interesting and very fulfilling.
My decision to return to the Authority in 2020 was a good decision. I have more to offer the Authority from the exposure that I gained as the Chief Operating Officer and Acting Managing Director at Alexander Forbes Financial Services Uganda Limited (renamed Zamara Actuaries, Administrators and Consultants Uganda Limited). I look forward to adding value and taking the capital markets industry forward.
What engages your mind to keep learning?
I read a lot of books and listen to lots of podcasts while I am driving. I watch a lot of Ted talks on interesting topics. I learn from peers in mastermind groups that my husband conducts as a John Maxwell coach, trainer and Speaker. I have great mentors and I learn a lot from spending time with people that are older and wiser.
Who has had the greatest influence on your life and career?
My greatest influence is Mr. Japheth Katto, former CEO of the CMA. When I joined the CMA in 2004, he took me under his wings like great leaders do and taught me about working hard, ethics, people, culture, leadership, success, balance and values.
What key lessons did you get from your father and mother that you would like to pass on to your children?
Life is about pivoting, making the most of every opportunity that presents itself. Everyone is important so obey the golden rule and treat others like you would like to be treated. Academic success is about effort not luck. The best student is the one who puts in the most effort. And finally, be devoted to family.
Companies Rise or Fall on How Well They Renew Their LeadersWhat advice do you have for those looking to climb the corporate ladder?
Choose the ladder carefully. Be kind to those climbing alongside you and help those falling off to get back on track.
How do you balance work and family?
Two are better than one, without a kind, loving husband I would not have attained any success in my work life. We tag team, we plan our days, weeks, months and years. We set goals each year, we prioritize and we execute. We celebrate small victories along the way and we strategize on how to strengthen any weak areas. We remain close to friends and family and have built a support system to enable us thrive.
How do you handle stress?
I work out with a fitness trainer and my husband. I read a book or two each month to keep my mind stimulated. I plan my day and prioritize my engagements at work. I pray with my friends once a month and I say no to many good opportunities that come along the way that may not be aligned to where I want to go.
How do you want to be remembered?
As a woman who loved God, served her country, was devoted to family and added value to people.
What lessons do you have for women looking to climb the corporate ladder?
It’s a matter of time, focus on what is important today. Do your best wherever you are today, add value to others today, think others first. When you do that climbing the right ladder will be obvious.
What resolutions have you set for yourself in 2021?
My parents are aging so I want to be as near to them as I can. I visit them every week. My children are growing and need my support in handling their school work I want to be a mother who is present and part of their educational journey so I work alongside them as they do their homework every evening. My husband is growing our family business I want to build alongside him; I join his mastermind groups on the weekends. My team at work needs me to lead effectively and efficiently, I want to be a leader who leads. I mentor, teach and coach my team.
Any closing comments
John Maxwell in his book ‘’ Leadershift’’ says ‘’ for most people it is not what they are that holds them back. It’s what they think they’re not.’’ Work on your mind, think big, dream big and make a difference in our world in 2021.
