In the dynamic landscape of modern business, the ability to lead effectively increasingly hinges on ongoing education, flexibility, and strategic insight. Temitope Oloruntoye exemplifies this blend of wisdom and innovative thinking. With a robust 25-year career in consulting, corporate finance, governance, and risk management, she has established a reputation built on discipline, reliability, and tangible outcomes.
Currently the Chief Financial Officer at Credlock Africa, Oloruntoye's decision to pursue an MBA at Miva Open University exemplifies her commitment to intellectual growth and strengthening her strategic leadership skills. In this interview, she discusses her professional path, the inspiration behind her enrollment, and how the flexible learning structure facilitates her ability to manage executive duties, family responsibilities, and academic enhancement.
Oloruntoye shared, "I was raised in Ilorin, Kwara State, where I completed my foundational education before studying Accounting at the University of Ilorin. Being the oldest of four siblings instilled a sense of responsibility in me early on, which has influenced my leadership style over the years."
Her career, which spans a quarter of a century across various sectors, includes consulting, corporate finance, governance, and risk management. As a Fellow of ICAN and CITN, she has enhanced her technical expertise and professional credibility. Presently, as CFO at Credlock Africa, her focus lies on financial stewardship, strategic planning, and promoting sustainable growth. Oloruntoye emphasizes that integrity, discipline, and continuous improvement have guided her along her career journey.
When asked about what motivated her to pursue an MBA at this stage, Oloruntoye stated, "There comes a moment when one seeks a new direction, and the challenge is identifying the right path. I had always envisioned earning an MBA, but it was essential for the timing, setting, and financial aspect to be suitable. At this juncture in my career, my motivation was less about obtaining another qualification and more about gaining insights. I aimed to enhance my strategic thinking, refresh my leadership style, and grasp how global business trends relate to local realities."
She noted, "Finance leadership today transcends mere numbers; it demands robust people management, innovation, and strategic flexibility. The MBA program provided an excellent opportunity to merge years of hands-on experience with structured learning, ensuring my relevance and effectiveness in a fast-evolving economic landscape."
Discussing her path to Miva Open University, Oloruntoye revealed that it was her husband who first informed her about the institution while searching for universities for their daughter. Her interest peaked when learning about the esteemed Board of Trustees, many of whom she recognized from the finance and corporate sectors. Their established credibility made Miva a reassuring choice, and they celebrated when their daughter was granted admission.
As her daughter progressed through her studies, Oloruntoye felt increasingly impressed—sometimes even envious—of the formal education she received in Accounting, which paralleled her own experiential learning in the field. Often jokingly stating that if Miva ever introduced an MBA program, she would enroll, she didn't hesitate when the opportunity arose. Encouraged by both her husband and daughter, she took the plunge, marking the beginning of her journey. Notably, her second daughter has now joined her, making it a shared family experience. The university's reputation and its flexible, tech-driven model made the enrollment an easy and meaningful choice for her.
Flexibility emerged as the main attraction to Miva's online learning model. It acknowledges that education does not have to adhere to conventional classrooms or strict schedules. The ability to access lectures and course materials at convenient times allowed her to pursue an MBA without sacrificing her professional duties or family obligations.
Oloruntoye stated, "The flexibility has been invaluable. Miva’s online format enables me to arrange my studies around my demanding work and family life, preventing feelings of being overwhelmed. I can review course material in quieter moments or during weekends and even while travelling, which makes a tremendous difference. This adaptability has enabled me to strike a healthy balance between work, family, and academic pursuits. Instead of adding stress, the program seamlessly fits into my schedule, making the educational experience sustainable and far less daunting, which is critical for senior- level professionals."
When asked about significant courses that left a mark, she pointed to organizational behaviour and corporate strategy as especially impactful. These subjects enriched her understanding of leadership dynamics, motivation among employees, and strategic decision-making. She emphasized, "Working on a research project regarding behavioural and socio-economic factors leading to loan defaults among mobile loan users in Lagos honed my analytical skills and illustrated the direct application of academic research to real-world financial and policy challenges. Additionally, the Corporate Strategy course greatly complemented my learning journey, compelling me to think comprehensively about the intersections of finance, technology, personnel, and long-term competitive positioning. These combined experiences have not only broadened my academic qualifications but also transformed my approach to intricate strategic decisions as a finance leader. I find myself being more reflective and analytical, grounded in evidence."
The MBA program at Miva has notably enhanced her strategic vision and broadened her professional perspective, encouraging her to view organizations as interconnected entities. It has improved her skill in aligning financial strategies with long-term value, governance, and human capital considerations—essential elements at the executive level. The structured, evidence-based decision-making approach cultivated through case studies and research coursework has left her more adept at navigating complexities and managing stakeholder interests. Importantly, this journey has refined her leadership perspective, promoting self-awareness, ethical judgment, and collaborative problem-solving, allowing her to tackle team dynamics, board discussions, and intricate business challenges with greater assurance and strategy.
Oloruntoye praised the caliber of teaching, available resources, and student support at Miva Open University, indicating they are well-suited to the needs of its postgraduate learners. The faculty’s combination of academic rigor and practical industry experience ensures that learning transcends theory, engaging students through case studies and real-world examples. This comprehensive approach has been instrumental in enhancing her strategic thinking and allowing her to address complex business problems relevant to leadership. The extensive learning materials, including curated readings and core texts, have proven particularly beneficial for her academic work and projects.
She lauded the proactive student support, noting that success advisors and program coordinators are accessible for guidance on course organization, research, and administrative matters, while the collaborative student network provides substantial value through peer support and shared learning.
For those apprehensive about time, costs, or accessibility, Oloruntoye assured, "Miva Open University exemplifies that pursuing further education can be both practical and feasible. Its flexible framework enables individuals to advance their careers while studying, without sacrificing family or personal duties. The experience extends beyond merely obtaining a degree; it prepares learners with heightened strategic thinking, restored confidence, and an expanded leadership viewpoint. For motivated professionals who aim to develop without abandoning their real-life commitments, it represents a clear, empowering pathway forward."
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