Olaoluwa Adeogo is a respected Audit Senior Manager at KPMG US LLP, boasting a robust career in audit management and financial oversight. With a career spanning over eight years across multiple countries, Olaoluwa has consistently demonstrated his expertise in planning, executing, and overseeing complex audit engagements. His deep understanding of IFRS and US GAAP standards, combined with his ability to assess risks and evaluate internal controls, underscores his proficiency in ensuring meticulous financial reporting and compliance.
Olaoluwa’s career is marked by progressive leadership roles at KPMG, where he has been instrumental in driving audit projects to success. His tenure at KPMG US LLP saw him rise from Audit Senior Associate to Audit Senior Manager, where he currently excels in managing diverse audit teams, fostering strong client relationships, and delivering actionable recommendations for improvement. His notable achievements include leading cross-border audits, particularly in South Africa, and handling high-stakes audits in telecommunications and consumer markets sectors.
A recipient of the ACCA Award for Best Performing Students, Olaoluwa ranked among the top ten in Nigeria and 27th globally in Advanced Financial Management, reflecting his academic excellence and dedication to his profession. His qualifications include certifications from prestigious institutions such as the Association of Chartered Certified Accountants (ACCA), the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria (ICAN), and the CPA Board of Accountancy, USA.
Olaoluwa’s unique blend of technical expertise, leadership acumen, and international audit experience makes him a valuable asset to any organization. His professional journey is a testament to his commitment to excellence and continuous improvement, aiming to further his impact in the field of audit and financial management. Looking forward, Olaoluwa aspires to leverage his extensive experience to drive strategic initiatives and elevate audit practices to new heights.
Olaoluwa’s unique qualities extend beyond his technical skills and professional accomplishments. His ability to navigate complex regulatory environments, coupled with his knack for strategic thinking, has earned him a reputation for excellence among clients and colleagues alike. He is known for his meticulous attention to detail, effective communication skills, and a proactive approach to identifying and mitigating risks, which have consistently led to the successful completion of audit engagements.
In addition to his professional achievements, Olaoluwa has demonstrated a commitment to mentoring and developing junior team members. He provides guidance and training, fostering a culture of continuous learning and professional growth within his teams. This dedication to building a supportive and knowledgeable audit team underscores his leadership capabilities and his commitment to the broader goals of his organization.
Looking ahead, Olaoluwa aims to continue his professional development and expand his influence within the industry. He is particularly interested in leveraging emerging technologies to enhance audit processes and improve efficiency. His forward-thinking approach and dedication to staying at the forefront of industry trends position him as a leader who can drive innovation in audit practices.
Olaoluwa’s future aspirations include taking on more strategic roles that allow him to influence organizational direction and policy. He seeks opportunities where he can apply his extensive experience and expertise to contribute to the overall success of the organization. Whether through improving audit methodologies, enhancing internal controls, or leading large-scale financial projects, Olaoluwa is committed to making a significant impact in the field of audit and financial management.
Thus, in this interview with Bridge Africa Technologies a platform known to celebrate the achievements and impact of Nigerian professionals on a global scale. Here, we explored Olaoluwa’s contribution in the world of Financial /audit Management as well as how his journey from Nigeria to the United States has impacted him.
Question 1: Can you provide an overview of your experience at KPMG and the progression of your roles there?
Olaoluwa Adeogo: “Certainly. I began my journey at KPMG in April 2016 as an Audit Senior Associate with KPMG Professional Services in Nigeria. In this role, I was responsible for delivering audit projects in compliance with IFRS and the International Standards of Auditing. I led onsite audit teams and managed complex clients, particularly in the telecommunications and consumer markets. My cross-border audit experience included leading and managing international teams in South Africa.
In November 2019, I transitioned to KPMG US LLP in the United States, continuing as an Audit Senior Associate. Here, I took on more responsibilities, including assessing functional business processes like revenue and inventory in line with US GAAP requirements. I also played a crucial role in project management, ensuring timely communication and milestone tracking.
In January 2022, I was promoted to Audit Manager, where I led audit teams, provided guidance, and managed audit project milestones. Most recently, in October 2023, I advanced to the position of Audit Senior Manager. In this role, I oversee audit engagements, evaluate internal controls, and build relationships with clients and stakeholders, ensuring audits are conducted in accordance with relevant standards and regulatory requirements.”
READ ALSO: The Top 10 Tech Certifications for 2024
Question 2: What are some of the key skills and areas of expertise that you bring to your role as an Audit Senior Manager?
Olaoluwa Adeogo: “My key skills include a thorough understanding of IFRS and US GAAP standards, which are critical for ensuring accurate and compliant financial reporting. I excel in risk assessment and internal control evaluation, identifying potential areas of risk and providing recommendations for improvement. My project management skills are also a significant asset, as I am adept at planning, coordinating, and executing audit engagements efficiently.
Additionally, I have strong leadership capabilities, having supervised and guided audit teams through complex projects. Building and maintaining relationships with clients and stakeholders is another area of expertise, allowing me to effectively communicate audit findings and address any concerns. My international experience has also equipped me with a global perspective on audit practices and regulatory environments.”
Question 3: Can you discuss a particularly challenging audit engagement you have managed and how you navigated it?
Olaoluwa Adeogo: “One of the most challenging audit engagements I managed was a cross-border audit for a major telecommunications client. The complexity arose from the client’s vast and diverse operations spread across multiple countries, each with its unique regulatory requirements.
To navigate this, I first ensured thorough planning by understanding the specific audit objectives and the regulatory landscape of each jurisdiction involved. I assembled a competent international audit team and clearly defined roles and responsibilities. Effective communication was crucial, so I established regular check-ins and updates to ensure everyone was aligned.
We encountered issues with varying accounting treatments across different regions, which required in-depth analysis and coordination with local experts. I facilitated workshops and training sessions to ensure our team was well-versed in these regional nuances. By maintaining a proactive approach and leveraging the expertise within our team, we successfully completed the audit, providing comprehensive recommendations that improved the client’s financial reporting processes.”
Question 4: How have you contributed to the development and mentoring of junior team members in your roles?
Olaoluwa Adeogo: “Mentoring and developing junior team members is something I am passionate about. At KPMG, I have consistently provided guidance and support to less experienced auditors. This involves offering constructive feedback on their work, helping them understand complex audit procedures, and encouraging them to pursue professional development opportunities.
For example, I initiated a mentorship program within our department where senior team members are paired with junior auditors. This program includes regular one-on-one sessions, skills workshops, and career development planning. I also lead training sessions on various audit topics, ensuring that our team stays updated with the latest industry standards and practices.
My approach is to foster an environment of continuous learning and open communication, which not only helps in their professional growth but also strengthens our overall team performance.”
Question 5: What are your future aspirations in your career, and how do you plan to achieve them?
Olaoluwa Adeogo: “Looking ahead, I aim to continue advancing in strategic roles within the audit and financial management field. My goal is to leverage emerging technologies to enhance audit processes and improve overall efficiency. I am particularly interested in areas such as data analytics and automated auditing tools, which have the potential to revolutionize our industry.
To achieve these aspirations, I plan to pursue further education and certifications in these technologies, attend industry conferences, and engage in continuous learning. Additionally, I aim to take on projects that allow me to experiment with and implement these innovations. By staying at the forefront of industry trends and maintaining a proactive approach to professional development, I believe I can drive significant improvements in audit practices and contribute to the strategic goals of my organization.”
These questions and sample responses are designed to provide a comprehensive view of Olaoluwa Adeogo’s professional background, skills, and future aspirations, reflecting his qualifications and experiences detailed in his CV.
Question 6: How has your Nigerian background influenced your approach to work and leadership in the United States?
Olaoluwa Adeogo: “My Nigerian background has instilled in me a strong work ethic, resilience, and a deep sense of community. Growing up in Nigeria, I learned the importance of hard work and perseverance, which has been crucial in navigating my professional journey. In leadership, I emphasize collaboration and inclusiveness, values that are deeply rooted in Nigerian culture.
In the United States, these values have helped me build strong, diverse teams and foster a supportive work environment. I believe that my multicultural perspective allows me to connect with colleagues and clients from various backgrounds, enhancing our ability to work effectively in a globalized business environment.”
READ: Tech Stories: The Inspiring Journey of Shola Akinlade, Co-founder of Paystack
Question 7: What motivated you to move from Nigeria to the United States, and how has the transition impacted your career?
Olaoluwa Adeogo: “My move from Nigeria to the United States was motivated by the desire to expand my professional horizons and gain exposure to a more diverse and challenging business environment. The transition has significantly impacted my career, providing me with opportunities to work on more complex audit engagements and with a broader range of clients.
The exposure to different regulatory standards, business practices, and a larger professional network has enhanced my skills and knowledge. This experience has not only improved my technical competencies but also broadened my understanding of the global financial landscape, positioning me for greater leadership roles in the future.”
Question 8: How does Olaoluwa Adeogo balance his professional responsibilities with your personal life, especially considering the demands of your role?
Olaoluwa Adeogo: “Balancing professional responsibilities with personal life is essential for long-term success and well-being. I prioritize time management and delegation to ensure that I meet my professional obligations without compromising my personal life. Setting clear boundaries and planning my schedule meticulously helps me stay organized and focused.
Additionally, I make it a point to spend quality time with my family and engage in activities that help me relax and recharge, such as reading and exercising. By maintaining a healthy work-life balance, I can stay motivated and bring my best self to both my professional and personal endeavors.”
Question 9: How do you stay connected to your Nigerian roots while living and working in the United States?
Olaoluwa Adeogo: “Staying connected to my Nigerian roots is very important to me. I maintain close relationships with family and friends back in Nigeria through regular communication and visits whenever possible. I am also actively involved in the Nigerian community here in the United States, participating in cultural events and networking with fellow Nigerians.
Additionally, I celebrate Nigerian traditions and holidays with my family, which helps keep our cultural heritage alive. This connection to my roots provides a sense of identity and belonging, which is essential in maintaining a balanced and fulfilling life abroad.”
Question 10: What personal qualities or experiences from your time in Nigeria do you believe have most contributed to your success in the United States?
Olaoluwa Adeogo: “Several personal qualities and experiences from my time in Nigeria have contributed to my success in the United States. Firstly, resilience and adaptability are key qualities I developed in Nigeria, where navigating challenges and finding solutions are part of daily life. These traits have helped me adapt to new environments and overcome obstacles in my career.
Secondly, my experience working in Nigeria’s diverse and dynamic business environment has equipped me with strong problem-solving skills and a global perspective. These attributes have been invaluable in managing complex audit engagements and leading diverse teams in the United States.
Lastly, the emphasis on community and collaboration in Nigerian culture has shaped my leadership style. I prioritize teamwork, mentorship, and building strong relationships, which have been crucial in fostering a productive and positive work environment.”
These additional questions and responses provide a more personal perspective on Olaoluwa Adeogo’s background, highlighting how his Nigerian heritage and experiences have shaped his professional journey and personal life in the United States.
READ: The Inspiring Journey of Olugbenga Agboola, Co-founder of Flutterwave – Nigeria’s $1bn Startup
Conclusion
Olaoluwa Adeogo is an accomplished and dedicated Audit Senior Manager with a proven track record of success in leading complex audit engagements. His comprehensive skill set, notable achievements, and visionary approach to audit management make him an invaluable asset to any organization looking to enhance its financial integrity and operational efficiency.
In this interview with Olaoluwa Adeogo, we have had the opportunity to delve deeply into his extensive experience and impressive qualifications as an Audit Senior Manager at KPMG US LLP. Olaoluwa’s career trajectory showcases a robust background in audit management and financial oversight, beginning with his foundational work in Nigeria and culminating in his senior role in the United States. His proficiency in IFRS and US GAAP standards, coupled with his strategic approach to risk assessment and internal control evaluation, highlights his technical expertise and commitment to excellence.
Olaoluwa has demonstrated exceptional leadership capabilities, particularly through his successful management of complex cross-border audit engagements and his dedication to mentoring junior team members. His ability to foster strong client relationships and his proactive approach to project management are indicative of his effectiveness and reliability in high-stakes environments. Notably, his achievements, such as receiving the ACCA Award for Best Performing Students, underscore his dedication and excellence in the field.
On a personal level, Olaoluwa’s Nigerian background has imbued him with resilience, adaptability, and a strong sense of community, which have been pivotal in his professional success in the United States. His commitment to maintaining a balanced work-life integration and staying connected to his roots further reflects his well-rounded character and grounding principles.
In summary, Olaoluwa Adeogo stands out as a highly skilled and experienced audit professional with a proven track record of success in diverse and challenging environments. His technical expertise, leadership qualities, and global perspective make him an invaluable asset to any organization. We are confident that Olaoluwa’s contributions would significantly enhance our audit and financial management functions, driving excellence and innovation. Thank you for sharing your journey with us today, Olaoluwa. We look forward to the potential opportunity of working together.