“In finance, strategic decision-making is not just about numbers; it’s about understanding the story behind those numbers and using that insight to shape the future of an organization.” —Bolaji Akinbola
Bolaji Akinbola is a distinguished finance professional whose career exemplifies a blend of academic excellence and practical expertise. Currently serving as a Finance Business Partner at Interswitch Group, Bolaji plays a crucial role in enhancing financial performance and supporting strategic decision-making across various business units, including Financial Inclusion Services and e’Clat Healthcare Limited. His journey in finance began with a solid academic foundation, holding both a Bachelor’s and Master’s degree in Finance from the University of Lagos. This educational background has equipped him with the analytical skills necessary for effective financial management and investment analysis.
With a career trajectory that showcases significant growth, Bolaji has accumulated diverse experience across notable organizations. He started his professional journey at Rosabon Financial Services as a Finance & Accounts Officer before advancing to Guaranty Trust, where he held multiple roles including Investment Analyst and Project Management Officer. His current position at Interswitch, which he assumed in April 2023, marks a pivotal point in his career, allowing him to leverage his expertise to implement rigorous financial controls and deliver insightful reports that inform high-level decisions across the organization.
Bolaji’s key competencies include financial analysis, budgeting, and strategic project management. His ability to manage complex budget processes and implement effective financial controls has been instrumental in driving the success of various initiatives within Interswitch. Notably, he was recognized with the BAT Award of Excellence in 2024 for his outstanding contributions to financial safeguarding initiatives, underscoring his commitment to excellence within the finance sector.
In addition to his professional achievements, Bolaji is dedicated to continuous learning and development. He has pursued various certifications in Data Management and Analytics, as well as completed an Investment Banking Course through Udemy. His active membership in the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria (ICAN) further reflects his commitment to maintaining high professional standards.
Bolaji Akinbola’s unique blend of technical skills, strategic insight, and dedication to financial excellence positions him as a valuable asset in the finance industry. As he looks towards the future, he aims to continue driving impactful financial strategies that contribute to organizational growth and innovation while furthering his own professional development through research and publications in the field of finance.
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In this exclusive interview, we delve into the professional journey of Bolaji Akinbola, as a Finance Business Partner at Interswitch Group, Bolaji has made significant contributions to enhancing financial performance and strategic decision-making across various business units.
Join us as he shares insights into his career achievements, the skills that have shaped his success, and his aspirations for the future.
Round Table Chat with an Industry Giant – Bolaji Akinbola
1. Can you share a bit about your background and what inspired you to pursue a career in finance?
Bolaji: “My journey into finance began in my childhood, influenced heavily by my family’s discussions about financial stability and investment strategies. Growing up, I was fascinated by how money works and its impact on everyday life. This curiosity led me to pursue a Bachelor’s degree in Finance at the University of Lagos, followed by a Master’s degree in the same field. During my studies, I delved into topics like capital markets and fintech innovations, which further fueled my passion for finance. I realized that finance is not just about numbers; it’s about making informed decisions that can drive economic growth and improve lives.”
2. What do you consider to be your most significant achievement in your current role as Finance Business Partner at Interswitch Group?
Bolaji: “In my role at Interswitch, my most significant achievement has been spearheading the annual budgeting process across multiple business units. This involved collaborating with various teams to ensure that our financial goals were aligned with strategic objectives. By implementing rigorous financial controls and creating detailed financial reports, I was able to enhance our decision-making processes significantly. This initiative not only improved our financial performance but also fostered a culture of accountability and transparency within the organization.”
3. How do you approach financial analysis and reporting to ensure accuracy and relevance?
Bolaji: “My approach to financial analysis begins with gathering comprehensive data from various sources, ensuring that I have a holistic view of the financial landscape. I employ analytical tools such as Microsoft Excel and Tableau for data visualization, allowing me to identify trends and variances quickly. Regular engagement with stakeholders is crucial; it helps me understand their needs and tailor my reports accordingly. I strive for clarity and precision in my reporting, ensuring that complex financial information is presented in an easily digestible format for decision-makers.”
4. Can you describe your experience with risk management and how it has shaped your decision-making?
Bolaji: “Risk management is a cornerstone of my responsibilities as a Finance Business Partner. At Interswitch, I proactively identify potential financial risks through thorough analysis and scenario planning. For example, during the budgeting process, I conduct stress tests to evaluate how different market conditions could impact our financial health. This proactive approach allows us to develop contingency plans that safeguard our assets and ensure business continuity, ultimately leading to more informed decision-making.”
5. What skills do you believe are essential for someone in your position, and how have you developed these skills over time?
Bolaji: “Essential skills for a Finance Business Partner include analytical thinking, effective communication, and strategic planning. Over the years, I’ve honed these skills through continuous education—such as obtaining certifications like the CFA Institute Investment Foundations—and through practical experience across various roles. Working closely with cross-functional teams has enhanced my ability to communicate complex financial concepts clearly and effectively, ensuring alignment on strategic initiatives.”
6. You received the BAT Award of Excellence in 2024. What does this recognition mean to you?
Bolaji: “Receiving the BAT Award of Excellence was incredibly meaningful to me as it recognized my commitment to driving financial performance within Interswitch. This award not only validates my efforts but also motivates me to continue pushing boundaries in my work. It serves as a reminder that hard work and dedication can lead to significant contributions within an organization, inspiring me to mentor others in their professional journeys.”
7. How do you balance your professional responsibilities with personal interests or hobbies?
Bolaji: “Balancing work and personal life is essential for maintaining both productivity and well-being. I prioritize time management by setting clear boundaries between work hours and personal time. Outside of work, I enjoy reading finance-related literature and engaging in community service activities, which allow me to recharge while giving back to society. This balance helps me remain focused at work while also nurturing my personal interests.”
8. Can you discuss a challenging project you’ve worked on and how you overcame obstacles during that process?
Bolaji: “One particularly challenging project was developing a robust financial model for the LAGSHIP initiative at e’Clat Healthcare Limited. The complexity of forecasting outcomes while assessing potential risks was daunting. To overcome this challenge, I collaborated closely with stakeholders across departments to gather insights and data necessary for creating an accurate model. By leveraging data analytics tools, we successfully developed a model that not only clarified the project’s financial landscape but also empowered stakeholders to make informed decisions regarding resource allocation.”
9. What role do mentorship and leadership play in your career development?
Bolaji: “Mentorship has played an invaluable role in my career development; I’ve been fortunate to have mentors who guided me through complex challenges while providing insights into strategic thinking and leadership practices. As I progressed in my career, I took on leadership roles myself—most notably as President of the Management Students’ Fellowship during university—where I learned the importance of fostering collaboration and encouraging knowledge sharing among peers.”
10. How do you stay updated with industry trends and developments in finance?
Bolaji: “Staying informed about industry trends is crucial in finance due to its ever-evolving nature. I subscribe to leading industry journals, attend webinars, and participate actively in professional organizations like ICAN. Networking with other finance professionals also provides valuable insights into emerging trends that can be applied within my organization, ensuring we remain competitive.”
11. What future aspirations do you have within the finance sector?
Bolaji: “Looking ahead, I aspire to take on more strategic leadership roles within finance that allow me to influence broader organizational goals significantly. Additionally, I aim to contribute extensively through research publications addressing pressing issues in finance—particularly around innovation in financial services—which can help shape industry practices moving forward.”
12. Lastly, what advice would you give to someone starting their career in finance?
Bolaji: “My advice would be simple yet profound: cultivate curiosity—always seek to understand not just how things work but why they work that way. Building a strong foundation through education is essential; however, practical experience gained through internships or entry-level positions can provide invaluable insights into the industry dynamics. Lastly, networking actively is crucial; relationships are key in this field as they can open doors for collaboration and opportunities.”
Conclusion:
As we conclude this insightful interview with Bolaji Akinbola, it is evident that his journey in the finance sector is marked by resilience, dedication, and a commitment to excellence. Bolaji’s academic achievements, including both a Bachelor’s and Master’s degree in Finance, provide a strong foundation for his impressive career trajectory, which includes pivotal roles at Interswitch Group and Guaranty Trust Company.
His ability to enhance financial performance through strategic decision-making and rigorous financial controls has not only contributed to the success of his organizations but also positions him as a role model for aspiring finance professionals.
Throughout our discussion, Bolaji emphasized the importance of continuous learning and mentorship, inspiring the next generation to pursue their passions with diligence. His recognition by Bridge Africa Technologies as one of the Nigerians excelling in his field abroad serves as a testament to his impact on the industry and highlights the potential for Nigerian professionals to make significant contributions on a global scale.
In closing, Bolaji Akinbola embodies the qualities of a leader who not only excels in his field but also seeks to uplift others. His story encourages youth to follow in his footsteps—reminding them that with hard work, strategic thinking, and a commitment to lifelong learning, they too can achieve remarkable success both locally and internationally.
