“Risk mitigation is central in supply chain management whether it’s from the supplier reliability, logistics disruptions, or regulatory issues”– Anjolaoluwa Osibodu
Meet Anjolaoluwa Osibodu; an accomplished Supply Chain and Operations expert focusing on optimizing global supply chain processes. He holds a Master of Business Administration from Pennsylvania State University, where he honed his ability to design and execute high-impact strategies that enhance supply chain performance. Anjolaoluwa’s extensive experience spans key roles in various industries, where he has consistently driven cross-functional teams to achieve excellence in productivity, risk mitigation, and pipeline management.
Currently serving as a Supply Chain Program Manager at Samsara, Inc., Anjolaoluwa has made significant strides in operational efficiency, including reducing Zendesk tickets by 40% and achieving substantial cost savings through resource redirection. His prior roles, such as Lead Geologist and Operations Director at Anji Mineral Limited, reflect his interdisciplinary expertise, combining supply chain acumen with geological insights to deliver sustainable solutions.
Certified in project management and supply chain management, Anjolaoluwa brings a unique blend of technical skills, including proficiency in tools like Python, SAP, and Tableau, which he leverages to streamline processes and enhance decision-making. His professional journey is marked by numerous achievements, such as improving fleet efficiency by 100% and implementing innovative safety protocols that reduced accidents by 35%.
Looking ahead, Anjolaoluwa is passionate about leveraging his dual expertise in supply chain management and geology to drive sustainable practices in resource management. His vision includes pioneering strategies that integrate cutting-edge technology with environmental consciousness, ultimately positioning him as a leader in both fields.
BAT Most Influential Women In Tech In Nigeria 2024 -Awards
In this insightful interview, we delve into the professional journey of Anjolaoluwa Osibodu about his blend of technical expertise and strategic leadership that propelled him to the forefront of the industry, where he continues to drive innovation and efficiency. Join us as we explore his experiences, achievements, and future aspirations.
Virtual chat with an industry Giant – Anjolaoluwa Osibodu
1. Can you walk us through your career journey, from your educational background to your current role as a Supply Chain Program Manager at Samsara, Inc.?
- Anjolaoluwa: “My journey began with a Bachelor of Science in Applied Geology from Wesley University, where I developed a strong foundation in problem-solving and data analysis. Following that, I pursued my MBA at Pennsylvania State University, with a focus on supply chain management. This was a pivotal moment for me, as I realized the critical role that efficient supply chain operations play in global businesses. After completing my MBA, I held various leadership roles, including Operations Manager at Carter Biggs Consulting and Lead Geologist at Anji Mineral Limited, where I blended my technical and strategic skills. My current role at Samsara involves managing global supply chain operations, and I’ve been able to implement initiatives that significantly improve efficiency, such as reducing Zendesk tickets by 40% and saving over $200,000 annually.”
2. What drew you to supply chain management, especially considering your background in geology? How do the two fields complement each other?
- Anjolaoluwa: “My interest in supply chain management emerged during my geology career, where I saw first-hand how resource extraction relied on effective logistics and procurement. Geology gave me a deep appreciation for managing complex systems, which translated seamlessly into supply chain operations. Both fields require meticulous planning, risk mitigation, and optimizing resources—skills that I’ve carried over into my work managing supply chain functions. The intersection of these two disciplines allows me to approach supply chain challenges from a unique perspective, particularly in sourcing sustainable materials and ensuring that operations run smoothly from the ground up.”
3. You’ve managed several teams across different sectors. How do you approach leadership and drive cross-functional teams to achieve high performance?
- Anjolaoluwa: “I believe that effective leadership is all about empowerment and clear communication. My approach is to create an environment where team members feel supported and understand their role within the larger organizational goal. I focus on setting clear, achievable objectives and fostering collaboration across different functions. At Samsara, for example, I worked closely with both internal and external teams to introduce new tools that saved time and improved productivity. This required aligning everyone’s efforts toward a common goal and encouraging innovative thinking. I’m a big proponent of providing continuous feedback and fostering a growth mindset, as I believe this leads to long-term team success.”
4. Can you share a challenging project you’ve worked on and how you overcame the obstacles to deliver results?
- Anjolaoluwa: “One of the most challenging projects was during my time at Amazon as a Pathways Operations Manager intern. We were tasked with increasing fluid loading rates in a very tight timeline. The process required a thorough analysis of existing operations, and I worked with the team to streamline workflows and introduce automation where possible. By implementing data-driven solutions, we increased fluid loading rates by 6.8% and outbound throughput by 4%. The key was maintaining focus on customer satisfaction while also optimizing internal processes. It was a great learning experience in managing both people and technology to drive results.”
5. You’ve worked across different regions, including Nigeria and the U.S. How have you navigated the cultural and operational differences in supply chain management across these regions?
- Anjolaoluwa: “Working in different regions has taught me the importance of cultural sensitivity and adaptability. In Nigeria, for example, I led the operations at Anji Mineral Limited and had to ensure compliance with both local and international regulations. Understanding the nuances of operating in a developing market, where infrastructure challenges can impede logistics, was essential. Conversely, in the U.S., my role at Samsara involves more advanced technological integration and data-driven processes. The key to navigating these differences is staying adaptable and focusing on local partnerships, ensuring that I can adjust my strategy based on the unique operational needs of each region.”
6. Supply chain risk mitigation is a critical part of your role. How do you approach risk management, and can you provide an example of a successful risk mitigation strategy?
- Anjolaoluwa: “Risk mitigation is central to my approach in supply chain management. I proactively identify potential risks, whether they’re related to supplier reliability, logistics disruptions, or regulatory issues. One successful example was at FMCG Distribution Limited, where I implemented a robust emergency response plan that reduced breakdown response times by 17%. By improving our fleet management processes, we not only minimized downtime but also improved safety protocols. The key to effective risk management is to always be a step ahead, anticipate challenges, and put contingency plans in place.”
7. In your current role, what specific strategies have you implemented to improve efficiency, and what has been the impact?
- Anjolaoluwa: “At Samsara, one of the most impactful strategies I implemented was reducing the number of Zendesk tickets directed to my team by 40%, which dramatically improved response times. Additionally, I introduced a serial searcher tool that saved an hour each business day. These initiatives collectively contributed to a cost savings of $200,000 annually and improved both internal and external response times. My approach is to constantly assess processes for inefficiencies, then collaborate with cross-functional teams to implement solutions that create tangible improvements.”
8. You’ve successfully managed both supply chain and procurement operations. How do you balance cost optimization with ensuring quality and efficiency?
- Anjolaoluwa: “Balancing cost optimization with quality and efficiency is about making strategic trade-offs and leveraging data for decision-making. During my time at FMCG Distribution Limited, I created a yearly supply chain budget of over ₦200 million and implemented strategic sourcing practices that resulted in annual savings of ₦20 million. The key was identifying cost-saving opportunities without compromising on the quality of goods or the efficiency of operations. By fostering strong relationships with suppliers and using data analytics to forecast demand, I was able to make informed procurement decisions that benefited the entire supply chain.”
9. How has your technical expertise in tools like Python, SAP, and Tableau helped you drive better supply chain outcomes?
- Anjolaoluwa: “Technical proficiency in tools like Python, SAP, and Tableau has been instrumental in my ability to streamline operations and make data-driven decisions. For instance, at Amazon, I created a macro using SAP to provide the operations team with accurate data on package availability, saving the team one hour of work every day. Similarly, using Tableau for data visualization has enabled me to easily communicate complex information to stakeholders, helping them understand trends and make better decisions. These tools are essential for optimizing processes and ensuring we’re working as efficiently as possible.”
10. Can you discuss your experience with sustainability in supply chain operations and your vision for integrating sustainable practices moving forward?
- Anjolaoluwa: “Sustainability has always been a priority for me, particularly during my time at Anji Mineral Limited, where we focused on sourcing environmentally conscious geological products. I ensured that our operations adhered to international environmental standards, and I worked closely with OEMs to secure sustainable tools. Moving forward, I want to continue integrating sustainability into my supply chain practices, especially by championing strategies that reduce carbon footprints, minimize waste, and source materials responsibly. My long-term vision is to pioneer sustainable resource management initiatives that not only enhance operational efficiency but also contribute to global environmental efforts.”
11. What achievement in your career are you most proud of, and why?
- Anjolaoluwa: “One of the achievements I’m most proud of is the fleet management strategy I implemented at Euro Mega Atlantic. We distributed 20,848 tons of goods across Nigeria in one month, managing over 1,000 trips efficiently. I also introduced cost-saving measures that led to a ₦16 million monthly reduction in operational expenses. This experience stands out because it exemplifies how strategic planning and teamwork can overcome logistical challenges and deliver outstanding results. It was a significant achievement in terms of both scale and impact, and it reinforced my belief in the power of optimization.”
12. Congratulations on your recent recognition at the BAT Annual Awards 2024! Can you tell us more about the award and what it means to you personally and professionally?
- Anjolaoluwa: “Thank you! Receiving the BAT Recognition Award was truly an honor. It signifies acknowledgment of the hard work and dedication I’ve put into optimizing supply chain operations over the years. For me, it’s not just about the personal achievement but also about validating the importance of innovation and efficiency in supply chain management. This recognition strengthens my commitment to driving impactful strategies and motivates me to continue pushing boundaries in my field.”
13. What specific accomplishments or projects do you believe contributed to your recognition at the BAT Annual Awards 2024?
- Anjolaoluwa: “The recognition at the BAT Annual Awards 2024 was largely due to my efforts in driving cost savings and operational efficiency at Samsara, where I led initiatives that saved over $200,000 annually and significantly improved internal response times. Additionally, my work at FMCG Distribution Limited, where I optimized fleet management and reduced costs by ₦20 million annually, played a key role. These projects reflect my ability to blend strategic thinking with hands-on execution, and I believe it’s this combination that contributed to my recognition.”
14. Looking to the future, what are your professional aspirations, and how do you plan to achieve them?
- Anjolaoluwa: “My long-term goal is to continue advancing as a leader in supply chain management while integrating my expertise in geology to drive sustainability and innovation. I see myself at the forefront of creating sustainable supply chain models that leverage new technologies and environmental practices. To achieve this, I plan to further my certifications, stay updated on industry trends, and continue fostering cross-functional collaboration. My aim is to lead transformative projects that not only optimize operations but also contribute to a more sustainable future for global supply chains.”
Conclusion
In this interview, Anjolaoluwa Osibodu offered valuable insights into his dynamic career as a Supply Chain and Operations expert. From his early foundations in geology to his advanced leadership in global supply chain management, Osibodu’s journey has been marked by innovation, efficiency, and a relentless pursuit of excellence. He shared how his technical skills, strategic vision, and commitment to risk mitigation have led to tangible successes, including cost-saving initiatives at Samsara, significant operational improvements at Amazon, and impactful sustainability efforts during his tenure at Anji Mineral Limited.
A major highlight of the interview was Osibodu’s recognition at the BAT Annual Awards 2024, where his achievements in optimizing supply chain processes and driving cross-functional collaboration earned him notable acclaim. This award underscores his dedication to improving operational efficiency and sustainability, both of which are vital to the future of global supply chains.
As Bridge Africa Technologies recognizes Anjolaoluwa Osibodu as one of the Nigerians excelling abroad, his story stands as a testament to the talent and expertise emerging from Nigeria. Osibodu’s work is not only enhancing business operations across industries but also contributing to sustainability and resource management—areas crucial to the future of the Nigerian economy and the global market. His vision for integrating environmentally conscious practices into supply chain management demonstrates his potential to be a leader in shaping the future of sustainable business practices worldwide.
In conclusion, Anjolaoluwa Osibodu’s professional journey, marked by his recent BAT award, speaks to his ability to make a significant impact. As he continues to push boundaries in supply chain optimization and sustainability, his contributions are sure to resonate far beyond his current role, driving positive change in both the Nigerian economy and the world at large.
