Bolaji Agbede: Here are 7 facts about the woman who will lead Access Bank

Access Holdings, on Monday, February 12, 2024, announced the appointment of Bolaji Agbede as the Acting Group Chief Executive Officer, succeeding the late  Herbert Wigwe.

In a statement, the company’s Board of Directors revealed that the appointment of Bolaji Agbede is contingent upon the Central Bank of Nigeria‘s approval.

Here are seven noteworthy insights into Agbede’s academic background, leadership, and banking industry experience:

Extensive Experience: With over 27 years in the banking sector,  Agbede boasts a wealth of expertise in human resources management, customer relationship management, and banking operations.

Educational Background: She holds a bachelor’s degree in Mathematics and Statistics from the University of Lagos (1990) and an MBA from Cranfield University (2002). Additionally, she is affiliated with the Chartered Institute of Management UK and Chartered Institute of Personnel Management of Nigeria.

Professional Development: Agbede has participated in prestigious leadership and professional development programs, including the High-Performance Leadership Programme at IMD and the Strategic Talent Management Programme at the London Business School.

Leadership in Access Bank: Since joining Access Bank in 2003, she has been pivotal in the bank’s human capital development, serving as the Head of HR for the Access Bank Group since 2010. Her tenure has seen successful people integrations during significant mergers and acquisitions.

Mergers and Acquisitions Expertise: Demonstrating proficiency in mergers and acquisitions, Agbede has played a pivotal role in several successful integrations, including those involving Marina International Bank, Capital Bank, Intercontinental Bank Plc, and the merger between Access Bank Plc and Diamond Bank Plc.

Advocate for Gender Equality:  Agbede champions gender equality and equity, introducing progressive initiatives such as paternity leave, six months’ maternity leave, the Bank’s Crèche, and the Access Women Network.

Community and Women Empowerment: Beyond her corporate responsibilities, she lends her expertise to non-governmental organizations focused on women’s empowerment, capacity building, and leadership, serving on the boards of organizations.