Dupe Olusola is a trailblazing business executive whose career has been marked by bold transformation, strategic brilliance, and an unwavering passion for excellence.
With over 25 years of experience across finance, agriculture, private equity, and now hospitality, Dupe served as the Managing Director/CEO of Transcorp Hotels Plc, owners of the iconic Transcorp Hilton Abuja and the innovative digital platform, Aura by Transcorp Hotels, until 2024.
Appointed in March 2020, Dupe assumed leadership at the height of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Rather than retreat in the face of adversity, she pioneered creative strategies that redefined the company’s resilience, from launching food delivery services and drive-in events to introducing the acclaimed Clean Stay program.
By 2021, under her direction, Transcorp Hotels reported an 84% revenue growth and successfully launched Aura, a first-of-its-kind experience booking platform, with national recognition.
In 2022, she led the company to its highest revenue and profit in history, a bold comeback story that solidified her place as a visionary leader.
Her efforts have not only retained Transcorp’s market leadership but fueled its continued expansion and innovation.
Before her hospitality triumphs, Dupe made her mark as Group Head of Marketing and later as Group Head of EMDOs & GIS at United Bank for Africa (UBA), where she shaped cross-continental strategies for sustainable growth.
She also served as the MD/CEO of Teragro Commodities, forming a landmark partnership with Coca-Cola to produce Five Alive Pulpy, sourcing solely from Nigeria, a massive win for local agribusiness.
A proud alumna of the University of Leicester and the University of Kent, Dupe is certified in PRINCE2, PMP, and Investor Management.
Her background spans stints at African Capital Alliance, Bloomberg UK, and Northern Trust UK, equipping her with rare cross-sectoral depth.
Dupe has earned numerous awards, including being named one of Nigeria’s 10 Most Influential CEOs (2015), one of the 100 Most Powerful People in Global Hospitality (2022), and one of the top 4 women in Africa by SAWIL (2021).
She was recognized as CEO of the Year by both Seven Stars Luxury Hospitality and Lifestyle Awards and Leadership Newspaper in 2023, and in 2024, she received the AHIF Hospitality Leadership Award at the Africa Hospitality Investment Forum in Namibia.
A passionate mentor and advocate for women’s advancement, Dupe is deeply committed to empowering women in their careers and socio-economic lives.
In celebration of her 50th birthday in September, she launched a mentorship initiative, selecting 50 women aged 25–44, from mid-level to management professionals, founders, and entrepreneurs, for a transformative experience.
She hosted 25 mentees in Lagos and 25 in Abuja, creating a powerful environment for growth, connection, and learning.
Beyond mentorship, she is actively building a thriving community of women dedicated to personal and professional transformation.
Dupe also serves on the advisory boards of AHIF and Save the Children UK and sits on the board of United Capital Microfinance Bank.
Dupe Olusola’s story is a reflection to what happens when brilliance meets courage, a woman who breaks ceilings and builds bridges, not just for herself but for generations to come.
