Meet Oluwadamilola Ogunleye; an accomplished Business Management Analyst with over a decade of experience, distinguished by her multidisciplinary approach to management in the energy sector, where she combines economic and engineering models to deliver strategic insights and solutions. Currently, she serves as a Senior Business Management Analyst at NextEra Energy Resources, the leading producer of wind and solar energy worldwide. In this role, she is instrumental in managing wind farm operations across North America, optimizing business processes, and ensuring the financial and technical sustainability of renewable energy projects.
Oluwadamilola’s career is marked by her deep understanding of renewable energy, cybersecurity, and artificial intelligence. She has consistently demonstrated her ability to navigate complex challenges, whether through analyzing big data to inform executive decision-making or managing multi-billion-dollar joint venture operations at Shell Plc. Her strategic leadership and technical expertise have earned her numerous accolades, including the Excellence and High Achievements Award at Shell and the prestigious Forte Foundation Women’s MBA Fellowship.
Beyond her professional achievements, Oluwadamilola is deeply committed to advancing the role of women in STEM fields. She actively contributes to various initiatives aimed at fostering diversity and inclusion within the energy sector. Her future aspirations include furthering research in areas such as carbon tax planning, emission mitigation strategies, and the integration of AI in business operations, making her a visionary leader in the global push toward sustainability.
Oluwadamilola is also a prolific researcher, with several publications that highlight her contributions to the fields of energy, cybersecurity, and financial technology. Her published works include:
- Machine Learning for Credit Risk Analysis Across the United States – World Journal of Advanced Research and Review, May 2024.
- Focuses on the application of machine learning models in financial credit risk mitigation and the prediction of default patterns.
- Improving Resilience and Efficiency in the Energy Sector: A Perspective on Cybersecurity and Renewable Energy Storage – International Journal of Scientific Research and Management, May 2024.
- Explores the intersection of cybersecurity and renewable energy, providing insights into how these fields can enhance resilience in energy operations.
- Impact of Web (URL) Phishing and Its Detection – International Journal of Scientific Research and Management, April 2024.
- Analyzes the impact of phishing on cybersecurity and introduces innovative detection strategies to mitigate these threats.
- Resilient Chain: AI-Enhanced Supply Chain Security and Efficiency Integration – International Journal of Scientific and Management Research, March 2024.
- Discusses the role of AI in enhancing the security and efficiency of supply chains, particularly in the context of energy markets.
- Cyber Analytics: Modeling the Factors Behind Healthcare Data Breaches for Smarter Security Solutions – International Journal of Advance Research, Ideas and Innovations in Technology, February 2024.
- Investigates the causes of healthcare data breaches and proposes advanced cybersecurity measures to prevent such incidents.
Oluwadamilola’s work reflects her commitment to leveraging technology and innovation to drive positive change in the energy sector and beyond
Thus, in this interview with Bridge Africa Technologies, a platform known for celebrating the achievements and impact of Nigerian professionals at home and abroad. We explored Damilola’s contribution to the field of energy, cybersecurity, and financial technology.
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Personal Background
1. Could you share a bit about your early life and what inspired you to pursue a career in the energy sector?
- Damilola: “Growing up in an environment where energy was often seen as a commodity rather than a transformative force, I developed a curiosity about how energy impacts every facet of our lives—from economic development to environmental sustainability. This curiosity led me to explore the sciences, particularly how engineering and economics intersect to create innovative solutions to global challenges. My academic journey, which included studies in both economics and engineering, was driven by a desire to understand these complex systems and leverage them to create a more sustainable future. The energy sector, with its vast potential to drive change and innovation, naturally became the focal point of my career aspirations. I was particularly drawn to renewable energy, recognizing its critical role in addressing climate change and ensuring a sustainable future for the next generation.”
2. What motivated you to integrate economic and engineering models in your professional approach?
- Damilola: “The energy sector is uniquely positioned at the intersection of technical innovation and economic necessity. I realized early in my career that to truly make an impact, one must understand both the technical aspects of energy production and the economic frameworks that drive decision-making. By integrating economic and engineering models, I’m able to offer a more holistic view of projects and challenges. For instance, while engineering models can predict the efficiency and output of a wind farm, economic models can evaluate the financial viability and long-term sustainability of that project. This interdisciplinary approach allows me to make decisions that are not only technically sound but also economically feasible, ultimately leading to more successful and sustainable energy solutions.”
Professional Background
3. Can you describe your role at NextEra Energy Resources and the impact you’ve made there?
- Damilola: “At NextEra Energy Resources, I have the privilege of working as a Senior Business Management Analyst, where I oversee the operations of wind farms spread across North America. My role is multifaceted, involving everything from financial analysis and process optimization to strategic planning and decision-making. One of my significant contributions has been the development and implementation of a predictive maintenance model, which uses data analytics to anticipate potential equipment failures before they occur. This model has drastically reduced unplanned downtime, leading to significant cost savings and improved operational efficiency. Additionally, I’ve worked closely with cross-functional teams to streamline business processes, which has enhanced our overall productivity and positioned NextEra Energy as a leader in the renewable energy sector.”
4. How did your experience at Shell Plc prepare you for your current role?
- Damilola: “My time at Shell Plc was foundational in developing my strategic thinking and problem-solving abilities. I was deeply involved in managing large-scale joint venture operations, which included overseeing crude oil lifting and sales that generated over $6 billion in annual revenues. This experience taught me the importance of meticulous planning, risk management, and efficient execution—skills that are directly transferable to my current role at NextEra Energy Resources. At Shell, I also honed my ability to work in high-pressure environments, where decisions needed to be both rapid and well-informed. These experiences have been invaluable in my current work, where I apply the same level of rigor and strategic foresight to managing renewable energy projects, ensuring they are not only successful but also sustainable in the long run.”
Skills and Expertise
5. You have a strong background in cybersecurity and AI. How do these areas intersect with your work in the energy sector?
- Damilola: “Cybersecurity and AI are becoming increasingly intertwined with the energy sector, especially as we transition to more digitized and interconnected energy systems. AI has the potential to revolutionize the way we manage and optimize energy production and distribution by providing predictive insights and automating complex processes. For instance, I’ve worked on implementing AI-driven predictive maintenance systems that can identify potential equipment failures before they happen, allowing us to take proactive measures and reduce downtime. On the cybersecurity front, as energy systems become more connected, they also become more vulnerable to cyber threats. Ensuring the security of these systems is critical to maintaining their reliability and efficiency. I’ve been involved in projects that focus on enhancing the cybersecurity of our energy infrastructure, including the development of advanced monitoring and response strategies. These initiatives are crucial in safeguarding our operations against potential cyber attacks and ensuring the uninterrupted delivery of energy.”
6. What unique skills do you bring to the table that set you apart from others in your field?
- Damilola: “One of the unique strengths I bring to the table is my ability to seamlessly integrate technical expertise with economic analysis. This multidisciplinary approach allows me to evaluate challenges and opportunities from multiple perspectives, ensuring that the solutions I develop are not only technically robust but also economically viable. My strong background in data analysis and modeling is another key differentiator. I have a deep understanding of how to leverage data to drive decision-making and optimize business processes, which has been instrumental in improving operational efficiency and reducing costs in the projects I’ve managed. Additionally, my experience in both the renewable energy and oil and gas sectors gives me a comprehensive understanding of the energy industry as a whole, enabling me to navigate its complexities and make informed, strategic decisions.”
Achievements
7. Could you elaborate on the Excellence and High Achievements Award you received at Shell?
- Damilola: “The Excellence and High Achievements Award at Shell was a recognition of my contributions to optimizing joint venture operations, specifically in the crude oil lifting process. I led a team that implemented a series of process improvements, which not only streamlined our operations but also increased efficiency and significantly boosted revenue. Our efforts resulted in a more than 10% increase in recovery rates, which translated into millions of dollars in additional revenue for the company. This award was particularly meaningful to me because it highlighted the impact that strategic planning and process optimization can have on a company’s bottom line. It also reinforced my belief in the value of interdisciplinary approaches to problem-solving, where combining technical expertise with strategic thinking can lead to exceptional results.”
8. What are some of your most significant publications, and what impact have they had on your industry?
- Damilola: “I’ve had the opportunity to contribute to several significant publications that have had a meaningful impact on both the energy and financial technology sectors. One of my key publications is ‘Machine Learning for Credit Risk Analysis Across the United States,’ which explores how machine learning models can be applied to mitigate financial credit risk. This work has been particularly well-received in the fintech community for its innovative approach to predicting default patterns, and it has influenced how financial institutions assess and manage credit risk. Another impactful publication is ‘Improving Resilience and Efficiency in the Energy Sector,’ which focuses on the role of cybersecurity in renewable energy. This paper has contributed to the ongoing discussions about the need for robust cybersecurity measures in the increasingly digitized energy sector. These publications reflect my commitment to advancing the fields of AI, cybersecurity, and energy management, and they have helped shape the way these industries approach some of their most pressing challenges.”
Unique Qualities
9. How do you balance your technical expertise with your passion for advancing women in STEM?
- Damilola: “Advancing women in STEM is a cause that’s very close to my heart. I believe that the representation of women in technical fields is crucial for driving innovation and ensuring diverse perspectives in problem-solving. Balancing this passion with my technical work can be challenging, but I see it as an integral part of my mission. I actively mentor young women who are entering the field, offering guidance, support, and sharing my experiences to help them navigate their careers. I also participate in various initiatives aimed at promoting diversity and inclusion within the industry, such as speaking at conferences and being involved in organizations that support women in STEM. By fostering an inclusive environment and encouraging more women to pursue careers in STEM, I believe we can create a more innovative and equitable industry.”
10. What drives your continued interest in research, particularly in areas like carbon tax planning and AI?
- Damilola: “Research is a way for me to stay at the cutting edge of innovation and contribute to the advancement of my field. My interest in carbon tax planning is driven by the urgent need to find effective ways to reduce emissions and combat climate change. I’m particularly interested in how economic instruments like carbon taxes can be used to incentivize the reduction of carbon footprints across industries. AI, on the other hand, offers endless possibilities for improving efficiency and creating smarter, more sustainable systems. My research in this area focuses on developing AI-driven solutions that can optimize energy production and distribution, enhance cybersecurity, and drive innovation in the energy sector. These areas are critical to the future of energy, and I’m motivated by the opportunity to contribute to meaningful advancements that can have a positive impact on both the industry and society as a whole.”
Future Aspirations
11. What are your long-term professional goals, and how do you plan to achieve them?
- Damilola: “In the long term, I aspire to take on a leadership role where I can have a greater influence on the strategic direction of the energy sector, particularly in the areas of renewable energy and sustainability. My goal is to lead initiatives that drive innovation and contribute to a more sustainable future. To achieve this, I plan to continue building on my technical expertise, staying engaged with cutting-edge research, and actively contributing to industry advancements. I’m also committed to mentoring and empowering the next generation of leaders, particularly women in STEM, as part of my broader vision for a more inclusive and diverse industry. By combining my passion for sustainability with my technical and strategic expertise, I believe I can make a meaningful contribution to the future of energy.”
12. How do you envision the future of the energy sector, and what role do you see yourself playing in it?
- Damilola: “The future of the energy sector is undoubtedly moving toward greater sustainability, with renewable energy sources playing a central role in the global energy mix. I envision a future where AI and data-driven insights are integral to optimizing energy production and distribution, making systems more efficient, resilient, and secure. In this future, I see myself playing a key role in driving these advancements, whether through leading strategic initiatives, conducting cutting-edge research, or influencing policy and practice. I’m particularly excited about the potential of AI to revolutionize the way we manage energy systems, and I’m committed to exploring new ways to harness this technology to create a more sustainable and secure energy future. Ultimately, I want to be at the forefront of the transformation of the energy sector, contributing to innovations that will have a lasting impact on both the industry and the environment.”
Conclusion:
The interview with Oluwadamilola Ogunleye has provided a deep insight into the journey, expertise, and future aspirations of a remarkable professional in the energy sector. Throughout our conversation, Oluwadamilola’s passion for innovation and sustainability was evident. Her unique ability to integrate economic models with engineering principles has allowed her to make significant contributions at NextEra Energy Resources, where her work has optimized operations, enhanced cybersecurity, and driven efficiency in renewable energy projects.
Her diverse skill set, which includes a strong background in data analytics, AI, and cybersecurity, positions her as a leader who not only understands the technical intricacies of the energy industry but also the economic and strategic dimensions necessary for sustainable growth. Her achievements, such as the Excellence and High Achievements Award at Shell and her impactful publications on credit risk analysis and energy resilience, underscore her commitment to advancing the industry and addressing global challenges.
Oluwadamilola’s dedication to empowering women in STEM and her forward-looking research in carbon tax planning and AI-driven energy solutions reflect a professional who is not only focused on personal success but also on contributing to a better future for all. Her aspirations to lead strategic initiatives in the energy sector and her vision for a sustainable future demonstrate her readiness to take on larger roles and influence the industry on a global scale.
It is no surprise that Bridge Africa Technologies has recognized Oluwadamilola as one of the Nigerians doing exceedingly well abroad. Her work exemplifies the innovative spirit and excellence that Nigerians bring to the global stage. As she continues to break new ground in her field, her impact is sure to resonate not only within the energy sector but also in broader conversations about sustainability, technology, and the empowerment of future leaders.
In summary, Oluwadamilola Ogunleye is a dynamic and forward-thinking leader whose contributions have the potential to shape the future of energy. Her achievements and vision are a testament to her capabilities, and her ongoing commitment to innovation and sustainability promises to bring about meaningful change in Nigeria and the world at large.
