Owen Omogiafo stands as an agent of transformational leadership and sustainable growth in Africa’s corporate landscape. As the President and Group Chief Executive Officer of Transnational Corporation Plc (Transcorp Group), she has consistently demonstrated strategic vision, resilience, and an unwavering commitment to excellence. Her journey, marked by significant milestones, underscores her role as a key driver of corporate success and economic development in Nigeria and beyond.
Born on May 28, 1980, in Benin City, Nigeria, Omogiafo’s formative years were deeply influenced by the value placed on education and personal growth. She earned a Bachelor’s degree in Sociology and Anthropology from the University of Benin before pursuing a Master’s degree in Human Resource Management at the London School of Economics and Political Science. To further hone her leadership skills, she attended executive programs at the Lagos Business School and IESE Business School in Spain, equipping her with a global perspective on business management.
With over two decades of professional experience spanning banking, consulting, and investment, Omogiafo has built an impressive career trajectory. She began her professional journey in 2003 as a Relationship Manager at Bond Bank before joining Accenture in 2004 as an Organization and Human Performance Consultant. In this role, she specialized in change management, working closely with clients across various industries. Her expertise in human capital management led her to the United Bank for Africa (UBA) in 2008, where she served as the Human Resource Advisor to the Group Managing Director/CEO. She later transitioned to Heirs Holdings as Director of Human Resources, where she played a critical role in optimizing organizational structures for efficiency and productivity.
Omogiafo’s impact extended beyond the corporate sector when she became the Chief Operating Officer at the Tony Elumelu Foundation. There, she oversaw the execution of a $100 million entrepreneurship program aimed at mentoring and funding 10,000 entrepreneurs across Africa. This initiative further solidified her reputation as a leader committed to fostering sustainable economic growth. In 2018, she joined Transcorp Group as the Executive Director of Corporate Services. Her dedication and strategic leadership quickly earned her the position of Managing Director/CEO of Transcorp Hotels Plc, where she spearheaded innovative initiatives that strengthened the company’s market position. By March 2020, she shattered glass ceilings by becoming the first female and youngest President and Group CEO of Transcorp Group.
Under her leadership, Transcorp Group has experienced unprecedented growth. The company recorded a remarkable 114% year-over-year revenue increase in the first half of 2024, reaching $110 million. Much of this success was driven by strategic investments in the power sector, a key focus under Omogiafo’s leadership. One of the company’s subsidiaries, Transcorp Power Plc, saw its market capitalization rise to $1.74 billion following its listing on the Nigerian Exchange, with share prices appreciating by over 41% since the listing. Omogiafo’s leadership philosophy is centered on transparency, innovation, and a people-first approach. She has cultivated a corporate culture that encourages excellence and accountability while promoting sustainability in business operations. As a strong advocate for gender diversity and inclusion, she has actively supported women’s empowerment in the corporate world, serving as a mentor to aspiring female executives.
Omogiafo’s contributions to Nigeria’s corporate sector have not gone unnoticed. In 2023, she was honored with the national title of Officer of the Order of Niger (OON) by former President Muhammadu Buhari for her role in advancing the nation’s economic landscape. She has also been recognized among Africa’s Top 100 Female CEOs and listed as one of the 100 Most Influential African Women, reinforcing her position as a leading voice in business and leadership. Beyond her professional achievements, Omogiafo exemplifies the ability to balance a demanding career with family life. She is married to Osato Omogiafo and is a mother of three. Her personal story resonates with many working professionals, as she frequently speaks about the importance of integrating family responsibilities with corporate leadership.
Looking ahead, Omogiafo remains committed to steering Transcorp Group toward sustainable expansion. Her vision includes strengthening the company’s presence in the power sector, enhancing operational efficiencies, and exploring new opportunities in hospitality and oil and gas. More than just financial success, she envisions a business landscape where corporate entities actively contribute to social development and environmental sustainability. Her journey is a testament to the power of visionary leadership and strategic execution. Her influence extends beyond boardrooms, inspiring a new generation of African leaders to embrace innovation, resilience, and sustainable business practices. As she continues to drive transformative change, her legacy is set to shape the future of corporate leadership in Africa for years to come.
