Nomahlubi graduated as a biochemist and worked for Unilever for 12 years and for British American Tobacco as marketing director for five years.  In 1999 she was appointed managing director of BLGK Bates.

Nomahlubi sits on several boards including JSE–listed Cashbuild and Foschini Group.  In 2009 she was named the Top Businesswoman of the Year at the National Business Awards.