Modupe “Dupe” Olusola remains on of the outstanding Nigerian women in the business world, distinguished by her extensive career and impactful leadership. Born on September 26, 1974, in Lagos, Nigeria, Dupe’s journey from her early education to her current executive roles showcases her dedication, intelligence, and strategic acumen.
Dupe Olusola’s educational journey began at Queen’s College, Lagos, one of Nigeria’s prestigious secondary schools, where she completed her GCE O-levels in 1991. Her quest for higher education took her to the United Kingdom, where she attended the University of Leicester and earned a Bachelor’s degree in Economics in 1996. This educational background laid a solid foundation for her future career in finance and business. With a commitment to furthering her expertise and preparing for the corporate world, Dupe continued her studies at the University of Kent, obtaining a Master’s degree in Development Economics in 1997. This advanced education equipped her with the knowledge and skills necessary for her subsequent professional endeavors.
After completing her master’s degree, Dupe Olusola kickstarted her career with Bloomberg and Northern Trust in the United Kingdom, gaining invaluable experience of the corporate system. These roles provided her with a global perspective and deep insights into the financial industry. Returning to Nigeria marked the beginning of her series of significant roles she played in prominent financial institutions. First, joining SecTrust (now Afrinvest) aided her skills in investment banking. Subsequently, she worked at African Capital Alliance, a leading private equity firm, where she further developed her strategic and managerial capabilities.
A significant turn in Dupe’s career came in 2008 when she joined the United Bank for Africa (UBA) Group. Her role in investor relations demonstrated her ability to bridge communication between the bank and its stakeholders. Her successful exploits and experience at UBA paved the way for her transition to Transcorp, where she was appointed Director of Resources in January 2010. In this role, her strategic vision and leadership were instrumental in shaping the company’s human resource policies and operational strategies, projecting her as a formidable manager of both human and non-human resources.
Within four years at Transcorp, Dupe Olusola assumed the role of CEO and Managing Director of Teragro Commodities Limited, an agribusiness subsidiary of Transnational Corporation of Nigeria Plc (Transcorp), in 2014. Under her Teragro embarked on significant agricultural projects, including the acquisition of farmlands for citrus farming. Her strategic partnership with Coca Cola to produce Five Alive Pulpy Orange Juice using locally sourced materials was a landmark achievement, emphasizing the potential of Nigerian agribusiness on a global scale and her resourcefulness in contributing to agriculture.
Dupe Olusola’s return to UBA after her successful achievements with Transcorp was another notable chapter in her career. Resuming the role of the Group Head of Embassies, Multilaterals, and Development Organizations (EMDOs) and Global Investors Services (GIS), she played a key role in managing relationships with key stakeholders. Her expertise in marketing was later recognized when she was appointed Group Head of Marketing, where she was responsible for shaping and executing UBA’s marketing strategies. Her innovative approach contributed significantly to enhancing the bank’s brand presence and customer engagement.
In March 2020, Dupe Olusola returned to Transcorp and was appointed Managing Director and CEO of Transcorp Hotels Plc, becoming the second woman to lead the organization. In this role, she oversees the strategic objectives of flagship properties such as Transcorp Hilton Abuja and Transcorp Hotels Calabar. Her managerial style and leadership has been characterized by a commitment to excellence and a focus on enhancing the guest experience. With over 21 years of corporate experience, Dupe has successfully navigated various sectors, bringing a wealth of knowledge and expertise to her role.
Dupe Olusola’s tenure as the CEO of Transcorp Hotels Plc has been marked by remarkable financial milestones, record-breaking achievements, and strategic growth. The Q1 2024 unaudited financial statements released for the period ending March 31, 2024, highlighted the company’s sustained success. In Q1 2024, Transcorp Hotels Plc broke its all-time revenue record and achieved an 844% growth in Profit After Tax (PAT). The company recorded a remarkable 72% increase in revenue, reaching N13.8 billion compared to N8 billion in Q1 2023. The company’s performance, highlighting their all-time monthly revenue record in March is a testament to her commitment to excellence.
Throughout her career, Dupe Olusola’s efforts in the business world have not gone unnoticed, as she has received numerous accolades recognizing her leadership and impact. As the CEO of Teragro, she was named one of Ventures Africa’s 10 Most Influential Nigerian CEOs in 2015. This honor reflects her significant contributions to the agribusiness sector and her role in promoting sustainable agricultural practices in Nigeria. And recently, in 2023, Dupe was honored with the prestigious Seven Star Awards CEO of the Year Award in Crete, Greece. This recognition serves as a powerful testament to her exceptional leadership, unwavering commitment to performance, and unwavering pursuit of excellence.
Beyond her illustrious career, Dupe Olusola finds strength and support in her family life. She is married to life coach Lanre Olusola, and together they have two children. Their partnership underscores the importance of balancing professional aspirations with personal relationships and highlights Dupe’s ability to thrive in both spheres.
Dupe Olusola’s journey from her early educational pursuits to her influential roles in major organizations exemplifies her dedication, strategic vision, and leadership excellence. Her impact on the Nigerian business landscape is profound, marked by successful ventures in finance, agribusiness, and hospitality. As the Managing Director and CEO of Transcorp Hotels Plc, Dupe continues to inspire with her commitment to innovation and excellence, setting a high standard for future leaders in Nigeria and beyond.
Her story is a testament to the power of education, perseverance, and visionary leadership. Dupe Olusola not only represents the potential of Nigerian business executives on the global stage but also serves as a role model for aspiring professionals, including men and women, aiming to make a significant impact in their fields.