'If you have to be pushed to do what is required of you, then you’re in the wrong job'

By Lillian Kiarie

Amir Grinberg wants his work done just so, which is also how he likes his coffee. The over six-foot-tall man also has an enviable poker face, and a soft spot for wildlife photos, which you can tell from his office walls. Mr Grinberg is in his early 40s and is the general manager of Amiran Communications, which provides communication and technology solutions in East Africa. It is a sister company to horticulture firm Amiran.

Amir means commander or prince in Arabic — any relation to royalty?

(Chuckles) Amir is a common name especially with Hebrews and in Arab countries. I command my life, so let’s just say I am a commander, too.

You have rather Mediterranean features, are you Italian?

Interestingly enough, when people meet me for the first time, many think I’m Italian — maybe because of my eyes or aquiline nose, I am not sure. I am an Israelite from the beautiful city of Tel Aviv. It is the second most populous city in Israel and the largest metropolitan area. I miss it; it’s very full of life and activity.

What is Amiran Communications best known for?

We introduce the latest trends in the technology market. We have four key departments — wireless, network, power and security — and each has different implementations in different parts of the region. For example, in 2003, we implemented the wireless broadband for AccessKenya, something that took others longer to catch up with.

Focusing on the wireless part, we have created digitally advanced radio networks that have served agencies like Kenya Power and the Presidential Escort Unit. Last year, we completed a radio system for Western Kenya.

In the security department, we provide end-to-end solutions and use our innovativeness and expertise to work with manufacturers. This includes CCTV, access control, command and control, and integrated security systems.

Your company’s key milestones?

One of the things we pride ourselves on is the provision of Kenya Power’s critical radio system, which they use in their day-to-day operation and maintenance activities. The system allows for one-to-one and one-to-many communication, text messaging and data transmission. We also provide security solutions for Equity Bank branches in East Africa, while the KDN Data Centre utilizes our cabling systems.

What is your leadership style?

I allow for self-motivation. You have to be passionate about what you do and require no one to push you to work. If I have to push you to do what you are supposed to, then you’re in the wrong job. If you do not like technology at Amiran Communications, then you are in the wrong place.

If you could, what negative Kenyan practice would you change?

Tribalism. I don’t understand how one can passionately loathe and despise another because of the ethnic group that he or she comes from. I do not condone it all.

There was a time a guy came into my office claiming that I was biased against another tribe. I could not understand his line of thought and how he could think that; as a non-Kenyan, I have no business having an opinion on other tribes.

I, however, love Kenyans for their hardworking, innovative, kind and warm personalities. The country is a superb destination, with beautiful scenery and weather.

What was your first job?

The first job I ever held was as a newspaper delivery boy at the age of 14. I then served as a waiter before turning 18, after which I did my three years mandatory service for the Israeli Army.

How many children do you have?

Three. My eldest is a young man aged 17, the second is a 15-year-old girl, while the lastborn is 14.

What is your favorite sport?

I love cycling and surfing. I have joined several groups in Nairobi where we cycle out of town, especially on weekends.

bizbeat@standardmedia.co.ke