By Rita Okoye
Lawrence D. Oyeniyi, a dynamic professional in financial services and technology, discusses his journey, achievements, and vision for the future of finance and data-driven decision-making.
Your career spans financial services and technology. What inspired you to pursue this unique intersection?
I’ve always been passionate about problem-solving and leveraging technology to enhance financial decision-making. The financial sector’s complexity and the increasing reliance on data-driven solutions presented an opportunity for me to bridge the gap between traditional financial practices and innovative technology.
Can you highlight a career achievement that you’re particularly proud of?
One standout accomplishment was deploying an automated reporting workflow for service charge accountants using Macros. This solution reduced over 200 hours of manual work to just a few clicks, ensuring compliance with financial reporting standards and saving significant resources.
What key skills have been critical to your success in the financial and technology sectors?
Proficiency in data visualization tools like Tableau and Power BI, as well as programming languages like Python and SQL, has been crucial. Additionally, strong project management skills and an ability to work with diverse stakeholders have allowed me to deliver impactful results.
You’ve worked with high-profile stakeholders, including C-suite executives. How do you manage these relationships effectively?
Managing such relationships requires understanding their priorities, providing clear and actionable insights, and consistently delivering at pace. Communication and trust are at the heart of these interactions.
Your experience, as an Associate and part of the Technology, Media, and Telecoms team. What does your role entail?
My role involves managing a portfolio of corporate clients with turnovers exceeding £6 million. I conducted in depth sector analysis, financial analysis, support credit proposals for clients, and oversee regulatory compliance. I also collaborated on client engagements at various levels and solutions advisory across various banking products, ensuring alignment with their needs.
How has your academic background, including an MSc in International Finance and Economics, shaped your career?
My academic journey provided me with a solid foundation in economic theory, financial modelling, and risk management. Writing my dissertation on machine learning’s use in financial time series predictions sparked my interest in applying advanced technology to finance, a theme that continues to influence my work.
You’ve been recognized globally for your innovative solutions. What drives your creativity?
I’m driven by a desire to simplify complex processes and deliver tangible results. Identifying inefficiencies and developing solutions that save time and resources fuels my creativity and problem-solving approach.
What role does data analytics play in your decision-making process?
Data analytics is at the core of decision-making. Whether it’s building financial models or conducting credit risk assessments, analysing structured and unstructured data provides the insights necessary to make informed and strategic decisions.
As a fintech professional, what trends do you believe will shape the industry’s future?
The integration of artificial intelligence and machine learning into financial operations will continue to revolutionize the industry. Additionally, increased focus on compliance and transparency, coupled with the growth of decentralized finance (DeFi), will reshape traditional financial systems.
At Trove, you played a role in business valuation and investor relations. What challenges did you face, and how did you overcome them?
One challenge was aligning valuation models with investor expectations while ensuring they reflected realistic market conditions. Open communication and iterative model adjustments based on stakeholder feedback were key to overcoming these challenges.
You have extensive experience in regulatory compliance. How do you ensure businesses remain compliant in an ever-changing landscape?
Staying informed about regulatory updates and maintaining a proactive approach is critical. I emphasize building strong internal controls, regularly training teams, and leveraging technology to ensure compliance with local and international regulations.
Your work at Access Bank involved innovative credit risk modelling. What lessons did you take from this experience?
I learned the importance of understanding customer behaviour and utilizing dynamic models to predict credit risks. Collaborating with the International Finance Corporation to design a cash flow-based credit assessment system was particularly impactful, as it allowed us to lend to customers without traditional credit histories.
What is the role of teamwork in your professional success?
Collaborative Teamwork has been fundamental to my success. Whether leading a project or collaborating with cross-functional teams, the ability to harness diverse perspectives and skills is essential for delivering exceptional results.
You’re pursuing CFA and ACCA certifications. How do these align with your career goals?
Both certifications will deepen my expertise in financial analysis and accounting, enhancing my ability to navigate complex financial challenges. They align perfectly with my goal of becoming a thought leader in finance and technology.
What advice would you give to young professionals aspiring to succeed in the financial services industry?
Stay curious, embrace technology, and prioritize continuous learning. The industry is evolving rapidly, and professionals who adapt and acquire relevant skills will thrive. Building strong relationships and seeking mentorship are also invaluable.
You’ve contributed to major transitions, such as the merger of Diamond Bank into Access Bank and. What made this transition successful your view?
The success lay in clear communication, meticulous planning, and aligning all stakeholders toward a common goal. Understanding the nuances of both organizations allowed for the creation of a seamless transition.
Looking ahead, what legacy do you hope to leave in the financial services and technology sectors?
I hope to be remembered as someone who consistently delivered innovative solutions and empowered others to think differently. My aim is to drive meaningful change, foster collaboration, and contribute to shaping the future of finance and technology.
Lawrence D. Oyeniyi’s journey is a powerful example of how innovation, adaptability, and a commitment to excellence can redefine success in the financial and technology sectors. His vision and accomplishments continue to inspire professionals across industries.