In 2007, at the height of Zimbabwe’s economic challenges, Gilbert Madziva cast caution to the wind by registering Grimaco Incorporated Consultancy. His vision was to empower companies through sales coaching and training solutions.
What might have seemed like a risky gamble at the time has turned out to be a masterstroke. Today, Grimaco Incorporated is setting trends in the consultancy space, helping both startups and established companies not only thrive but also reach their full potential.
From Teacher to Salesman
“My background as a child oscillated between urban and rural areas. Born to a teaching couple, I regarded teaching as an inborn calling, initially as a boyhood dream. Even today, nostalgia brings back some vivid memories.
“So, teaching was a natural choice. In a few years, however, I found myself in the financial services sector—first as a sales representative, then as an award-winning branch manager, and eventually as a Marketing and Sales Manager.
“Regarding my education, after completing a teacher education course, I pursued a Diploma in General Management (Z.I.M.), an Executive Development Programme (UZ), a Bachelor of Business Administration in Marketing (IMM Graduate School), and an MSc in Marketing (NUST).”
Sowing the Seeds of Entrepreneurship
By the time Gilbert rose to branch manager at his company, he had already set his sights on establishing a venture to navigate the economic challenges of the 2000s in Zimbabwe.
“I was already running a side hustle, training and facilitating seminars whenever I had free time. In 2007, during the economic meltdown, I registered my company, Grimaco Incorporated Consultancy. At the time, I was in senior management, overseeing branch networks and training functions.
“Being a former teacher, I fell in love with training and coaching. I coached team leaders while training officers focused on sales representatives and frontline staff. My desire to uplift Grimaco was ignited, but I respected my employment contract, so I kept Grimaco low-profile.”
A Vehicle to Empower Others
As Gilbert put in place the structures and systems to build Grimaco into a modern and effective consultancy, he remained focused on its core mandate: helping emerging and established entities thrive sustainably and achieve their goals.
In 2023, Gilbert took early retirement from the corporate sector to dedicate his energy fully to Grimaco.
“My role as Lead Business Consultant and Sales Coach makes me the driving force behind Grimaco. I personally manage the coaching services, which include two branches: Executive Coaching and Customized Coaching workshops for sales and frontline staff.
“At Grimaco, we empower businesses through expert consultancy, sales coaching, and comprehensive training solutions. Our services include Business Consultancy, Sales Training, Executive Coaching, Network Marketing, Marketing Campaigns, and Brand Activations.”
A Commitment to Excellence
Gilbert credits Grimaco’s success to its commitment to providing high-quality services tailored to clients’ evolving needs.
“With a foundation built on integrity, excellence, and dedication, we help businesses not only survive but thrive in today’s competitive landscape. Our ultimate goal is to become a trusted partner for success in win-win collaborations.”
Overcoming Obstacles
Despite its success, Grimaco has faced challenges along the way, including payment delays and resistance to pricing structures.
“Our biggest challenge has been relationships with friends. They expect contracts based on friendship but resist paying for services, assuming we operate as a charity.
“The second challenge is pricing. Clients question our rates, but we simply invite them to invest in our expertise and invoice them for professional services.
“Fortunately, word of mouth and strong recommendations are gradually affirming the quality of our work. To demonstrate value, we offer free consultations. Many clients who experience these consultations offer to pay above our usual rates willingly.”
Pushing Boundaries
Gilbert explains that Grimaco has developed a unique business model that sets it apart in the consultancy space.
“Our model avoids the traditional employee structure. We have three lead consultants and one office manager. I focus on business systems reviews, marketing, and sales. Another consultant covers ICT, website development, SEO, and social media, while the third specializes in human resources.
“When more expertise is needed, we collaborate with a network of skilled professionals.”
A Bright Future
The future looks promising for Grimaco. While challenges are inevitable, Gilbert is determined to achieve his goals.
“In the next five years, our aim is to become the go-to business consultancy with a footprint beyond our borders and grossing seven-figure revenues in US dollar terms,” he says.