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.
Below are seven significant highlights of Agbede’s academic history, leadership skills, and extensive experience in the banking sector:
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.
Championing Gender Equality: Agbede advocates for gender equality and equity by spearheading progressive initiatives like paternity leave, six months of maternity leave, the establishment of the Bank’s Crèche, and the Access Women Network.
Empowering Communities and Women: In addition to her corporate duties, she contributes her expertise to NGOs dedicated to women’s empowerment, capacity building, and leadership development, actively participating on various organizational boards.