For our Inspirational Women Shaping The Future Of Business Education series we speak with Olayinka David-West, the Dean of Lagos Business School  

• Name: Olayinka David-West 
• Job title: Dean 
• Institution: Lagos Business School 

Professor Olayinka David-West is an esteemed academic and thought leader with expertise in the intersection of business management and technology.  

With an illustrious career spanning several decades in IT and financial services, she has made significant contributions to academia, research, and the advancement of business practices and policies through her insightful analyses and strategic thinking. 

As the Dean of Lagos Business School, Professor David-West brings visionary leadership to one of Africa’s premier business institutions. She is passionate about digital transformation and inclusive finance and has held critical positions at prestigious institutions. At LBS, she has served as a faculty member, faculty director, academic director, associate dean and accreditation lead, propelling the school to attain international accreditations and global rankings.  

Her research and practice engagements focus on the transformative impact of technology on business models, strategy, and organisational dynamics alongside policy interventions toward digitally transformed businesses and society. 

Professor David-West’s thought leadership focuses on the transformative impact of technology on business and operating models and organisational strategy. Since 2015, she has led the Sustainable and Inclusive Digital and Financial Services (SIDFS) initiative, fostering research, advocacy, capacity building and stakeholder engagement in the digital and financial services ecosystems to improve financial access and digital transformation efforts. 

She is Certified in Cyber Risk Governance, Governance of Enterprise IT (CGEIT), and a Certified Information Systems Auditor (CISA). She is a member of the Fintech Association of Nigeria and is widely regarded as an expert in financial inclusion and digital innovation. Professor David-West also mentors young women in STEM and has been recognised as among the leading women in Nigeria’s financial technology industry. 

Why do you work in education? 

Drawing on my extensive background in technology, I transitioned into the field of education with the mission of bridging the communication gaps that often exist around technology. I aim to empower governments, organisations, and individuals to harness their technology investments’ full potential, achieving significant and measurable benefits for both business and society.  

“I transitioned into the field of education with the mission of bridging the communication gaps that often exist around technology” 

Through my work in education, I have gained a unique platform to engage with business managers, helping them understand the intricacies of technology while educating tech professionals about the needs and challenges faced in the business world. This dual approach fosters collaboration and cultivates an environment where informed decisions can lead to innovative solutions and improved outcomes for all stakeholders involved. 

What’s the most rewarding part of your role? 

I find great joy in observing individuals grow and thrive in their diverse roles and responsibilities, each journey marked by personal development and accomplishments. Seeing how they embrace challenges, cultivate their skills, and contribute positively is inspiring. 

Please tell us about a challenge you’ve overcome to get to where you are today. What did you learn? 

Navigating the journey from industry to academia and then to administration has been a formidable challenge that I’ve successfully embraced on my path to becoming Dean. Throughout this transformative experience, the most profound lesson I’ve learned is the importance of authenticity. Embracing my true self has shaped my leadership style and fostered meaningful connections with colleagues and students alike. 

Have you ever had a role model? If yes, who? And how have they impacted your career or outlook? 

My parents have been my most important role models throughout my life. Their unwavering work ethic and dedication have profoundly shaped who I am today. They instilled in me the values of hard work and conscientiousness, demonstrating through their actions the importance of diligence and striving for excellence in everything I undertake. Their support and guidance have been the foundation upon which I build my aspirations and goals. 

What advice would you give to others to succeed in their careers? 

Be authentic; don’t compromise your morals and beliefs. Let them reflect your attitudes and behaviours. 

Interested in this series? Keep reading…