Yetunde Oni is currently the rave of the moment in Nigeria’s banking sector with her recent appointment as the Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer (MD/CEO) of Union Bank of Nigeria.
With her new role, she shatters a long-standing male-dominated record as the first female top executive of the old generation bank, bringing in a wealth of experience and a track record of success.
Education
Embarking on a journey shaped by a compelling and instructive upbringing, Yetunde Oni’s path is marked by significant milestones, including earning a degree in Economics from the University of Ibadan in 1991, undergoing Executive Training at Oxford University in 2016, and attaining an MBA in Business Administration from Bangor University, Wales, in 2020.
Her banking career started in 1994.
Oni was a Treasury and Money Markets manager at the Prime Merchant Bank, setting the stage for a remarkable career. Joining Ecobank Nigeria in 1995 recorded the beginning of her decade-long dedication to various roles in Commercial Banking, Institutional Banking, Corporate Banking and Trade Finance.
Oni achieved a historic milestone by becoming the CEO of Standard Chartered Bank, Sierra-Leone, making her the first woman to hold this influential position
In 2005, Standard Chartered Bank Nigeria welcomed her as a Senior Account Relationship Manager in Local Corporates Segment, propelling her into a series of leadership roles.
Oni’s career highlights include becoming the Pioneer Head of Commercial Clients in 2014 and assuming the role of Managing Director & Country Head of Commercial Banking in West Africa for Standard Chartered Bank until January 2021.
In 2020, Oni achieved a historic milestone by becoming the CEO of Standard Chartered Bank, Sierra-Leone, making her the first woman to hold this influential position.
Professional engagements
Yetunde Oni’s influence extends beyond her professional endeavours. Engaged in various professional groups and industry associations, she holds an esteemed position as an Honorary Senior Member at the Chartered Institute of Bankers (CIB). Additionally, she is a member of the Chartered Institute of Loan and Risk Management (CILRM), Women in Management and Business (WIMBIZ), and the Nigerian British Chamber of Commerce (NBCC).
Global exposure
Oni’s commitment to continuous learning is evident through her participation in executive training programmes at renowned institutions. In 2017, she attended a programme at INSEAD in Singapore, and in 2016, she undertook training at the University of Oxford in the United Kingdom.
Family life
Beyond her professional accomplishments, Yetunde Oni is a devoted wife and mother. Married to a businessman and entrepreneur, they are blessed with two children. As a committed Christian, Oni actively participates in the Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG), reflecting her strong faith and community involvement.
Born on October 24, 1969, in Lagos, Nigeria, Yetunde Oni, now 54, hails from a supportive middle-class background. Her parents encouraged her academic and career ambitions from a young age, shaping her into the influential leader she is today.
