In a landmark move for gender inclusivity and corporate leadership, Transcorp Hotels Plc has appointed Uzo Oshogwe as its Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer, making her the third consecutive female to lead the iconic hospitality brand. Following in the footsteps of her illustrious predecessors, Owen Omogiafo and Dupe Olusola, Oshogwe’s appointment solidifies Transcorp Hotels’ reputation as a champion of female empowerment and innovation in the Nigerian business landscape.
The Legacy of Leadership: Owen Omogiafo
Owen Omogiafo, the first woman to hold the position of MD/CEO at Transcorp Hotels, set the stage for a transformative era. Her tenure was marked by strategic growth and resilience, with her leadership steering the organization through significant economic challenges. A seasoned corporate executive with extensive experience in talent management, strategy, and change leadership, Omogiafo brought a dynamic perspective to the role.
Before her time at Transcorp Hotels, she held pivotal positions such as the Chief Operating Officer at the Tony Elumelu Foundation and Director of Resources at Heirs Holdings. Under her leadership, Transcorp Hotels maintained profitability and elevated its reputation as a market leader in Nigeria’s hospitality sector.
Driving Innovation: Dupe Olusola
Dupe Olusola succeeded Omogiafo in 2020, bringing her own brand of visionary leadership to the company. With a strong background in banking and finance, including senior roles at United Bank for Africa and a stint as the Group Head of Marketing at UBA, Olusola had a proven track record of driving growth through innovation and strategy.
During her tenure, she introduced Aura by Transcorp Hotels, a groundbreaking digital platform that redefined the hospitality experience in Nigeria by connecting users to unique accommodations and experiences. This initiative not only diversified Transcorp Hotels’ offerings but also enhanced its appeal to a younger, tech-savvy demographic, ensuring the company stayed ahead of industry trends.
Olusola also spearheaded initiatives aimed at operational efficiency and customer satisfaction, earning the company several industry accolades. Her tenure solidified Transcorp Hotels’ commitment to delivering world-class service while fostering innovation and inclusivity.
Uzo Oshogwe: The Next Chapter
Now at the helm, Uzo Oshogwe brings over 30 years of robust experience spanning management, investment, and corporate leadership. A visionary leader with a knack for strategic growth, she previously served as Managing Director and CEO of Afriland Properties Plc, where she led impactful real estate developments and investments across Nigeria. Her tenure at Afriland saw the company flourish as a key player in the property development sector.
Oshogwe’s academic credentials include a Bachelor of Science degree in Chemistry from Ambrose Alli University, an MSc in Information Systems Design from the University of Westminster, and a professional certificate in Real Estate Management from Harvard Business School. Her extensive experience in roles at United Bank for Africa Plc and Accenture UK underscores her global outlook and business acumen.
A Commitment to Gender Inclusivity
The appointment of three consecutive female CEOs is a testament to Transcorp Hotels’ unwavering commitment to diversity and inclusion. By breaking gender barriers and fostering female leadership, the company not only reflects progressive corporate values but also demonstrates the tangible benefits of inclusive governance.
Chairman of the Board of Directors, Emmanuel Nnorom, aptly summed up the company’s vision: “Uzo Oshogwe’s exceptional leadership skills and extensive experience in driving organizational growth make her the right person to continue building on the remarkable achievements of her predecessors. We are confident she will sustain and expand Transcorp Hotels’ legacy of excellence in the hospitality industry.”
The Road Ahead
As Uzo Oshogwe takes the reins, expectations are high for continued innovation, customer-centric growth, and operational excellence. Building on the solid foundations laid by Omogiafo and Olusola, she is poised to usher in a new chapter of success for Transcorp Hotels, further cementing its status as a leader in Africa’s hospitality sector.
This remarkable journey of three women at the helm of Transcorp Hotels is more than just a milestone, it is a blueprint for organizations seeking to redefine leadership through the lens of inclusivity and excellence.
