With more than two decades in the flower industry, Irene Njeru has built her career through consistency, adaptability, and a clear understanding of people and markets. Through navigating shifting industry demands to leading commercial operations across Mzurrie’s three farms, her story reflects the quiet strength behind long-term leadership in floriculture.
In this week’s 10 Questions, Irene shares what keeps her going in a fast-moving industry, how she approaches challenges with resilience, and why relationships continue to matter more than ever in business. Between global markets, family life, and preparations for IFTEX 2026, her perspective offers a genuine look into the person behind the role.
Question 1
For those who don’t know you, who are you, and what do you do?
"I am Irene Njeru, Commercial Director at Mzurrie Flowers, a wife and proud mother of three. With over 25 years in the flower industry, I have grown from a sales and marketing role through dedication and continuous learning. Over the years, I've worked with only three organizations and have shown resilience and commitment throughout my journey. Today, I lead the commercial operations across the three Mzurrie farms, driving business growth with a focus on quality, teamwork, sustainability, and continuous self-improvement."
Question 2
What is so special about your job?
"What’s special about my job is the impact it creates and the journey behind it. I don’t just sell flowers, I help connect Mzurrie to global markets. Leading the commercial side means balancing strategy, relationships, and growth while working with diverse teams across the chain. I get to meet and work with different people around the world and interact with different cultures, all in an endeavour to bring connections and success for both the organisation and the stakeholders."
Question 3
Are there any specific challenges or obstacles you’ve faced at work, and how did you overcome them?
"In my job, one of the main challenges has been navigating market changes in recent years. Balancing quality, demand, supply, and customer expectations can be very demanding on the commercial team. With stiff competition in the same markets, every day comes with its own challenges, but we have managed to overcome by remaining adaptable and building strong relationships with teams, and especially with the clients."
Question 4
What are the threats in the industry, and if so, do you have any solutions for them?
"At the moment, the threats in the flower industry are quite a number; they include fluctuating market prices, high production costs, increased freight costs, and competition from other producing countries. Diversifying markets to reduce dependence on specific markets, leading to dumping and increased price competition, improving efficiency in production to control costs, and maintaining high quality to stay competitive are some of the solutions to these challenges.
Building strong customer relationships and adapting quickly to market changes are also key to overcoming these challenges. Solutions involve improving efficiency to control costs, investing in sustainable practices, maintaining consistent high quality, and diversifying markets. Strong customer relationships and the ability to adapt quickly to changing market conditions are also essential to remain competitive."
Question 5
How has technology, such as e-commerce platforms or digital marketing, affected your industry? What strategies have you employed to stay competitive?
"Technology has and is still significantly transforming the flower industry, especially through e‑commerce. Online platforms have made it easier to reach global customers directly, improve order efficiency, and respond quickly to market demand.
To stay competitive, we have adopted online sales channels through our own web shop and through Floriday. We have also enhanced our digital presence in the various options available. We also use data insights to understand market trends, maintain high product quality, and respond quickly to changing customer needs."
Question 6
Who (in or outside the floral industry) is an inspiring example to you? And Why?
"The CEO of General Motors stands out for her strong leadership, customer focus, and ability to adapt strategies in a competitive global market. Her approach emphasizes understanding customer needs, building trust, and driving long‑term value. She inspires me to lead with clarity, stay resilient in challenging markets, and continuously innovate to meet changing customer expectations."
Question 7
How do you handle stress or difficult moments in your life?
"During a stressful period, I try to remain calm, positive, and focus more on solutions rather than the problem. I prioritize solutions that are within my control and avoid spending a lot of time on what I don’t have control over. I also take time for some fresh air by taking walks to clear my head and help me unwind and refocus. Family comes in very strongly during this time; just spending time with them helps me rejuvenate."
Question 8
What has been the best (floral or non-floral) news for you lately, or of the last year?
"The best news lately has been my continued growth professionally and personally. The fact that Mzurrie has remained resilient despite the challenges in the industry is very good news for me. We have managed to remain the preferred supplier to many of our global partners."
Question 9
Which is your favorite flower/plant, and why is it good for you?
"I don’t have a single Favorite flower, but I truly appreciate how roses and Chrysanthemums blend beautifully in a bouquet, especially when the contrast is just right. The different color combinations each create a unique feeling—orange brings energy, yellow radiates brightness, while red, pink, and white offer a more elegant and timeless contrast. It’s the harmony and balance of these combinations that I find most appealing."
Question 10
What are you doing this weekend?
"This weekend will be busy coordinating with the teams at the IFTEX 2026 stand to ensure we get the perfect stand for this year’s expo. I invite you to visit us at booth D5.08 from 2nd to 4th of June, where you will experience our wide assortment and meet team Mzurrie during the show.
Will also have time with my family for quiet time at home, being the wife and mother in that space. Make time to go to church for spiritual nourishment on Sunday morning with the family."
As the conversation with Irene Njeru shows, leadership in the floral industry is often built through resilience, consistency, and the ability to grow alongside changing markets and people. Her story is a reminder that behind every successful company are individuals whose experiences continue to shape the future of floriculture. If you know someone in the industry whose journey deserves to be shared, recommend them for the next 10 Questions feature by reaching out to Edwin at edwin@thursd.com.
All pictures courtesy of Irene Njeru.
