The Everyday Leader podcast features inspiring individuals building and leading teams across Africa. Listen to episodes on your preferred podcast platform here.
About our Guest
This episode’s conversation is with James Osho from Lagos, Nigeria. James is the Country Finance Manager in Nigeria for IDP Education. James is an experienced accountant with a history of working in the fintech, IT, FMCG and service industries, including at Bolloré, Pagatech and the Union Bank of Nigeria.
Everyday Leadership in Action
Here are a few highlights from the conversation with James:
Moving across different sectors early in your career provides helpful exposure: James reflected on his earlier years as a manager and how it taught them to lead and manage in different industries. He discussed his first managerial role in Union Bank of Nigeria, where he was charged with leading a team of about 30 people, many of whom had more experience in the industry. This experience laid the foundation for his future career as a manager and helped him to expand into different industries. James’ experience highlights the importance of adaptability, resilience, and continuous learning in building a successful career.
Find roles that will help you uncover new skills: James emphasized how many of his roles made him realize his untapped skills and potential in areas he wasn’t previously aware of. For example, in helping set up a new country office, James described some of the challenges he and the team faced and overcame, such as setting up the office, hiring staff, negotiating lease agreements, and aligning Nigerian policies with global policies.
Take an active role in translating a global company’s culture into your local team: IDP Education is a global firm with a number of offices worldwide. James has been intentional to make sure the Nigeria team understands the company values and best practices, since they want to replicate the successes of the firm. Meanwhile, he has also learned the importance of appreciating what makes the Nigeria market unique and catering IDP Education’s local strategies accordingly.
The Everyday Leader is a podcast featuring conversations with leaders from across Africa’s companies, organizations, and governments about their experience managing teams and projects throughout their careers.
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James Osho: Country Finance Manager, IDP Education