Harnessing Data for Impact: An Interview with Adesola Dorcas Soyele

“Every challenge is an opportunity in disguise. I approach problems with curiosity and creativity, believing that the best solutions often come from thinking outside the box.”  —Adesola Dorcas Soyele

Adesola Dorcas Soyele is a seasoned Quantitative Analyst whose career is marked by a profound commitment to leveraging data-driven insights for strategic growth and operational excellence. With a Master’s degree in Applied Statistics and Decision Analytics from Western Illinois University, she has cultivated an impressive portfolio that spans over several years in the finance and technology sectors. Currently serving as a Quantitative Analytics Senior Associate at JPMorgan Chase, Adesola plays a pivotal role in the Finance Decision Optimization Product team, where she drives model development and analysis across various stages of the data lifecycle, collaborating with cross-functional teams to align statistical models with business objectives.

Her expertise encompasses a diverse array of skills, including advanced data analysis, financial modeling, and machine learning. Proficient in tools such as SQL, Python, and Tableau, Adesola excels in transforming complex data into actionable insights that enhance decision-making processes. Her analytical prowess is complemented by her ability to automate reporting processes, significantly reducing turnaround times while maintaining data integrity—a testament to her meticulous attention to detail and problem-solving acumen.

Adesola’s career is punctuated by notable achievements that distinguish her within the industry. She was honored with the BAT Award of Excellence 2024, recognizing her exceptional contributions to data analytics. Additionally, her scholarly work has been published in reputable journals, including articles on big data analytics and predictive modeling, further establishing her as a thought leader in her field. Her role as a judge at the Dratech Hackathon 2023 and the Bridge Africa Innovation Awards highlights her dedication to fostering innovation within the African tech community, showcasing her commitment to empowering others while celebrating excellence.

Beyond her technical skills and accolades, Adesola possesses unique qualities that make her an invaluable asset. Her passion for financial forecasting and strategic outcomes is evident in every project she undertakes. She approaches challenges with a collaborative spirit and an unwavering focus on delivering value. Looking ahead, Adesola aspires to deepen her impact in quantitative analysis by exploring advanced machine-learning techniques and contributing to initiatives that drive sustainable business practices.

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In this interview, we delve into Adesola Dorcas Soyele’s remarkable journey. With a passion for problem-solving and a commitment to driving business insights, Adesola has made significant strides in her career, earning her accolades. Join us as we explore her experiences, insights, and aspirations that not only highlight her professional achievements but also serve as an inspiration for the next generation of analysts and innovators.

Round Table Chat with an Industry Giant —Adesola Dorcas Soyele

Personal Background and Journey

1. Can you share some insights into your early life and education in Nigeria and how it shaped your career as a Quantitative Analyst?
   • Adesola responds:
     Growing up in Nigeria instilled in me a strong sense of resilience, curiosity, and a desire to excel academically. My undergraduate studies in Political Science and International Relations at Crawford University were pivotal, as they honed my critical thinking and analytical skills. During my time at the University of Ibadan, where I earned a master’s degree in Humanitarian & Refugee Studies, I encountered the power of data in addressing societal challenges. This sparked my interest in data analysis and its potential for problem-solving. Transitioning to the MSc program in Applied Statistics & Decision Analytics at Western Illinois University was a defining moment for me. It provided the technical expertise I needed to blend my analytical mindset with cutting-edge tools and methodologies. These experiences, coupled with the cultural diversity I experienced in Nigeria, taught me adaptability and perseverance, qualities that have been integral to my professional success.
2. Your career spans roles in prestigious organizations like JPMorgan Chase and Discover Product Inc. How did you transition into these global opportunities?
   • Adesola responds:
     The journey to global opportunities was intentional and rooted in continuous self-improvement. At Cooperative Mortgage Bank in Nigeria, I worked on projects that involved financial tracking and data migration, which laid a solid foundation in analytics. I pursued certifications and hands-on experience with tools like Tableau, Python, and SQL. Moving to the U.S. for my master’s degree gave me access to international networks and industry insights. I attended conferences, joined professional groups, and participated in data challenges that showcased my skills. A key element was leveraging LinkedIn and other platforms to connect with recruiters and hiring managers in top firms. My dedication to delivering results and aligning my work with organizational goals also made me a strong candidate for these roles.
3. What has been your most challenging project as a Quantitative Analyst, and how did you overcome it?
   • Adesola responds:
     At JPMorgan Chase, one of the most challenging projects involved developing a pricing and forecasting model that required integrating data from multiple sources. The data was not uniform, and there were issues with inconsistencies that could have affected the model’s accuracy. To overcome this, I employed exploratory data analysis (EDA) to clean and transform the data. I collaborated closely with teams from finance, technology, and treasury to ensure the model aligned with business objectives. Using Python, SQL, and Tableau, I built dashboards that simplified complex diagnostics for stakeholders. The iterative process and feedback loop helped refine the model, and in the end, the project significantly enhanced decision-making capabilities across departments.

Achievements and Recognitions

4. You were a judge at the Dratech Hackathon in 2023. What was the experience like, and how did it resonate with your mission of celebrating African talent?
   • Adesola responds:
     Being a judge at the Dratech Hackathon was one of the most fulfilling experiences of my career. It was inspiring to see young Africans come together to tackle real-world challenges with innovative solutions. As someone who has navigated the global professional landscape, I know the importance of platforms that amplify African talent. I was particularly impressed by the creativity and technical prowess of the participants. The event was more than a competition; it was a celebration of African ingenuity and resilience. It reminded me of the immense potential we have as a continent to contribute to the global tech ecosystem. As a judge, I also felt a deep sense of responsibility to provide constructive feedback and mentorship, knowing the impact it could have on the participants’ futures.
5. In 2022, you were also a judge at the BAT Innovation Award. How did this role align with your professional goals?
   • Adesola responds:
     The BAT Innovation Award celebrated groundbreaking ideas in technology and business, which aligns closely with my passion for innovation and strategic problem-solving. As a judge, I had the privilege of evaluating projects that showcased the transformative power of data and technology. The role allowed me to connect with visionary entrepreneurs and professionals who are pushing boundaries in their fields. It was a platform where I could share my expertise while also learning from others. The experience reinforced my commitment to using analytics to create value and support initiatives that drive progress in Africa and beyond.
6. What personal or professional achievement are you most proud of, and why?
   • Adesola responds:
     One of my proudest achievements was identifying a $40,000 revenue opportunity while working at Discover Product Inc. The project required deep analytical skills and the ability to translate complex data into actionable insights. By leveraging statistical models and regression analysis, I uncovered trends that the organization had previously overlooked. What makes this achievement special is not just the financial impact but also the recognition it brought me from my peers and leadership. It validated my belief in the potential of data analytics to transform businesses and create measurable value.

Skills and Tools

7. You are proficient in numerous tools and programming languages. Which tools do you consider indispensable in your role, and why?
   • Adesola responds:
     Python, Tableau, and SQL are indispensable to my work. Python’s versatility allows me to handle data manipulation, build machine learning models, and automate processes effectively. Tableau is my go-to tool for creating compelling visualizations that make data insights accessible to stakeholders. SQL, on the other hand, is foundational for querying and managing data from relational databases. Together, these tools enable me to deliver end-to-end solutions—from raw data extraction to actionable insights.
8. How do you stay updated with the rapid advancements in machine learning and analytics?
   • Adesola responds:
     Staying updated requires a proactive approach. I regularly enroll in online courses on platforms like Coursera and Udemy to learn new concepts and tools. Participating in hackathons and contributing to forums like Kaggle keeps me engaged with the global data science community. I also attend industry conferences and subscribe to journals and blogs that focus on analytics and machine learning. Continuous learning is a mindset I’ve adopted to remain competitive and innovative.

Experiences and Impact Abroad

9. As a Nigerian excelling abroad, what challenges did you face, and how did you navigate them?
   • Adesola responds:
     One of the biggest challenges was adapting to a new cultural and professional environment. Initially, I had to overcome self-doubt and find my voice in a competitive industry. Building a strong support system through mentorship and networking was crucial. I also made an effort to understand the nuances of workplace communication and expectations. My Nigerian upbringing instilled in me a sense of determination and adaptability, which has been instrumental in overcoming these challenges.
10. What advice would you give to young Nigerians aspiring to a career in data analytics?
    • Adesola responds:
      Start with the basics—strengthen your foundation in mathematics and programming. Invest in learning industry-standard tools like Python, SQL, and Tableau. Don’t hesitate to take on internships or volunteer roles that allow you to gain practical experience. Networking is also vital; connect with professionals in the field and seek mentorship. Most importantly, remain curious and persistent, as the field of data analytics is dynamic and constantly evolving.

Contributions to Innovation and Strategy

11. Can you share an instance where your work significantly improved operational efficiency?
    • Adesola responds:
      At Discover Product Inc., I automated the process of data cleaning and reporting using SQL and Python, which reduced the total reporting time by 25%. This allowed teams to focus on strategic decision-making rather than manual tasks. The impact was immediate, as it improved the accuracy and timeliness of reports, enabling better operational planning and execution.
12. How do you approach building statistical models for business forecasting?
    • Adesola responds:
      My approach begins with a clear understanding of the business problem. I then gather and curate relevant data, ensuring it is clean and comprehensive. Using exploratory data analysis (EDA), I identify patterns and correlations. Depending on the problem, I choose appropriate modeling techniques, such as regression or time-series analysis, and validate the model through testing. Collaboration with stakeholders ensures the model aligns with business needs. I also prioritize interpretability, ensuring the results are actionable.

Vision and Future Goals

13. What is your vision for the future of data analytics, particularly in Africa?
    • Adesola responds:
      I envision a future where data analytics is a cornerstone of decision-making across all sectors in Africa. With the right investments in technology and education, we can harness our rich data resources to address challenges like healthcare access, economic development, and education. I believe Africa has the potential to lead in data-driven innovation if we create the right ecosystems for talent development and collaboration.
14. What’s next for you in your career, and how do you plan to continue making an impact?
    • Adesola responds:
      Moving forward, I aim to deepen my expertise in machine learning and advanced analytics. I’m passionate about mentoring the next generation of analysts and giving back to the community through workshops and speaking engagements. My ultimate goal is to lead data-driven initiatives that tackle complex problems, particularly in emerging markets, and to continue being a role model for aspiring professionals.

Conclusion

As we conclude this insightful interview with Adesola Dorcas Soyele, it’s clear that her journey as a Quantitative Analyst is marked by remarkable achievements and a deep commitment to leveraging data for impactful decision-making. Throughout our discussion, Adesola shared her inspiring story—from her roots in Nigeria to her current role at JPMorgan Chase, where she is making significant contributions to financial analytics and model development.

Her extensive experience in data analysis, financial modeling, and machine learning has not only equipped her with the technical skills necessary for success but has also allowed her to drive substantial business growth. Adesola’s ability to automate processes and enhance operational efficiency is a testament to her innovative mindset and dedication to excellence. The recognition she received with the BAT Award of Excellence in 2024 highlights her exceptional contributions to the field, while her role as a judge at prestigious events like the Dratech Hackathon and the BAT Innovation Awards underscores her commitment to fostering talent within the African tech community.

Adesola’s story serves as a beacon of inspiration for young professionals, particularly those from Nigeria, who aspire to excel in their careers abroad. Her journey illustrates that with determination, continuous learning, and a willingness to embrace challenges, it is possible to achieve great heights in any field. She emphasizes the importance of mentorship and giving back to the community, encouraging others to pursue their passions while supporting the next generation of innovators.

In closing, Adesola Dorcas Soyele stands out as not just a skilled quantitative analyst but also as a role model for aspiring professionals. Her achievements reflect not only personal success but also the potential of Nigerians to excel on the global stage. As she continues to break barriers and contribute positively to both local and international communities, Adesola embodies the spirit of resilience and excellence that can inspire countless others to follow in her footsteps.