Otile Brown’s Manager Mumbi Maina Steps Down, Exposing the Harsh Realities of Celebrity Management

Just seven months into her role, Mumbi Maina has officially resigned as Otile Brown’s manager, marking a surprisingly short tenure compared to her predecessor Joseph Noriega, who served for six years.

In her resignation statement, Mumbi cited a desire for “peace, purpose, and professional evolution”—a subtle yet revealing reference to the intense mental and emotional toll of managing a high-profile artist.

Her departure highlights a critical but often overlooked reality: while artists enjoy the limelight, their managers work behind the scenes under relentless pressure and often without recognition.

The Myth of the Glamorous Job

To outsiders, managing a celebrity may seem like a glamorous dream—exclusive parties, international travel, VIP access, and close proximity to fame. While these perks do exist, insiders know the truth: the role is grueling.

Behind the scenes, managers face long hours, high-stakes decisions, emotional labour, and the constant demand to be available—often 24/7. The job goes far beyond scheduling; it includes navigating volatile personalities, industry politics, public scrutiny, and online backlash, all while protecting and promoting the artist’s brand.

When the Job Becomes Life

Celebrity management doesn’t stop at 5 p.m. Managers are on call for everything from last-minute emergencies to emotional support and unexpected opportunities. This lack of boundaries can be mentally and physically exhausting.

In Kenya, where resource constraints often mean one person is expected to manage tasks typically handled by entire teams abroad, the pressure is magnified. Burnout is common, and support is rare.

Managers are often blamed when things go wrong—missed shows, canceled appearances, or controversies—but receive little credit when things go right. Their role is critical but largely invisible.

Global Standards vs. Local Realities

Top global artists like Taylor Swift, BTS, and Wizkid rely on extensive teams: tour managers, brand consultants, digital strategists, publicists, legal experts, and even wellness coaches.

Even African superstars like Davido, Burna Boy, and Diamond Platnumz operate with specialized teams to handle various aspects of their careers.

In contrast, many Kenyan artists rely on a single manager to handle everything—a model that may suffice for newcomers but becomes unsustainable as careers grow.

The Silent Struggles of Managers

Conversations about mental health in Kenya’s entertainment industry rarely address managers, even though they bear the brunt of both public controversies and private crises.

With no access to mental health support, structured breaks, or professional development, many managers struggle in silence. Some quietly resign, as Mumbi did, while others burn out in full view of the public.

There is a pressing need for professional training, mentorship programs, and the adoption of team-based management models in Kenya’s music industry.

Most importantly, there must be a cultural shift—one that sees managers not just as background players, but as essential professionals who deserve respect, boundaries, and support for their well-being and growth.