Raymond Oruo began his career with very little and rose slowly through the ranks to become the Chief Executive Officer of one of the most successful football clubs in East Africa, Gor Mahia AFC.
His story is one of passion, determination, risk-taking and making sacrifices.
Oruo was born in California, Eastlands and later on trained as a teacher. He used to teach Geography at Kanga High School along with coaching rugby and hockey.
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In a recent interview with KTN’s Catherine Mwangi, the Moi University alumnus revealed that his life has virtually revolved around sports.
His passion for games began at Hill School Primary, Eldoret where he played hockey. Oruo desired to join Saint Patrick High School, Iten, as it was one of the best hockey schools in the country then.
“A lot of my growing up was in boarding school. One of the most interesting things is that when I was in primary school. Saint Patrick, Iten were pretty good in hockey and basketball,” said Oruo.
He ended up being admitted to Nairobi School (Patch). At first, he was disappointed for failing to join his secondary school. However, after a few months at Patch, Oruo realized joining the school was a blessing in disguise since he was able to play hockey, rugby and football.
Oruo quit teaching to dedicate his life to Rugby. He joined the Kenya Rugby Union (KRU) where he worked as a referee.
It was at KRU that he made a name for himself, showcasing his prowess in management.
Gor Mahia, then in search of a new CEO to replace Ambrose Rachier, approached him with a new challenge, managing one of the top clubs in Africa.
Oruo did not shy away from the new challenge, he took the opportunity and has been credited for making changes at the record Kenya Premier League champions.
The soft-spoken CEO encouraged the youth to follow their passion and not to give up until they achieve their dreams.
“I encourage the young ones to find a passion and follow it, and see what logical end it can come to,”
“I discovered with my passion and love for sports, there is actually an opportunity, a gap that we can use these skills in marketing sports because there is a big gap and an opportunity in that area,” advised Oruo.
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