In the bustling corridors of corporate headquarters, where the hum of technology meets the buzz of business, there resides a figure whose leadership transcends the ordinary – Titilope Fakuade, Chief Technology & Information Officer at MTN Benin.
Titilope’s journey is not merely a climb up the corporate ladder; it is a captivating tale of adaptability, innovation, and a relentless pursuit of excellence. Picture this: a young engineer navigating through the maze of organizational restructuring, where uncertainty looms like a dark cloud. Yet, amidst the chaos, Titilope sees an opportunity.
Assigned to a new department, Titilope’s role transcends boundaries. From planning engineer to business analyst, solution architect to integration engineer, Titilope wears many hats with aplomb. But it is not just about mastering technology; it’s about understanding its impact on business outcomes.
Through tireless effort and unwavering dedication, Titilope emerges not just as a tech expert but as a visionary leader. From charting the course of critical platform evolution to spearheading initiatives that drive business growth, Titilope’s leadership knows no bounds.
But Titilope’s journey isn’t just about climbing the corporate ladder; it’s about uplifting others along the way. With a heart for mentorship and a commitment to diversity and inclusion, Titilope inspires individuals at all levels to reach for the stars.
Blending Technology with Business
Following an organization-wide restructure that prompted a departmental change, Titilope Fakuade, Chief Technology & Information Officer, recalls initially perceiving the transition as a somber moment, navigating uncertainties surrounding the evolution of their role in the new environment. Upon joining the new department, while assigned to product delivery as a planning engineer, Fakuade found herself wearing multiple hats, encompassing roles such as business analyst, solution architect, designer, capacity planning engineer, and integration engineer.
Beyond orchestrating the technology roadmap, Fakuade assumed responsibility for charting the course of critical platform evolution and the introduction of innovative technologies to drive business growth. This entailed not only designing products end to end but also shaping user journeys and business performance metrics, thereby extending their purview beyond technology-centric perspectives and fostering close collaboration with business teams. Through this multifaceted approach, Fakuade gained a profound appreciation for the symbiotic relationship between technology and business outcomes. She emphasizes that while a robust understanding of technology capabilities is indispensable for any technology professional, an equally deep comprehension of business dynamics is imperative for delivering optimal value.
This pivotal realization laid the groundwork for Fakuade’s role as CTIO, where she now oversees entire technology domains, including security. Continuously exploring avenues to harness technology for business expansion, Fakuade spearheads the development of products and services tailored to meet customer demands while also driving innovation to secure a competitive edge.
Key initiatives to enhance the network, systems, and security landscape.
Titilope Fakuade emphasized the pivotal role of the technology landscape in enhancing customer experiences. She highlighted ongoing efforts to meet evolving customer needs while embracing new technologies for business advancement. Major initiatives include modernizing and expanding the current radio and transport network to improve coverage and capacity, thereby enhancing the customer experience. Fakuade also underscored the significance of the MUNA project, which is aligned with the MTN Group MUNIC strategy and aimed at evolving the network into an all-cloud core network for better efficiency and management.
Regarding cybersecurity, Fakuade stressed its critical importance as the company transitions into a tech focused entity. She outlined digital evolution strategies, including implementing a micro-services-based architecture BSS to address evolving consumer demands and facilitate the development of new service offerings for 5G and IoT. Additionally, Fakuade discussed plans to digitize the customer experience through AI-powered chatbots, enhancing personalization and efficiency.
Regarding sustainability, Fakuade highlighted its commitment to reducing its carbon footprint and promoting social and environmental responsibility through Project Zero. This initiative aims to achieve carbon neutrality by 2040 through various measures, including increased energy efficiency and the adoption of renewable energy solutions.
She highlighted all these initiatives would transform MTN Benin’s network into a modern, agile, future oriented network with greater service agility and innovation, differentiation, and better customer experiences for increased speeds and reduced latency. Fakuade also emphasized efforts to improve smartphone penetration among customers to enable connectivity in an increasingly digital world. She reiterated the company’s dedication to remaining forward-thinking and aligned with its Ambition 2025 goals, leveraging MTN’s PACE technology strategy to provide innovative solutions and enhance customer experiences for a modern and connected life.
Developing scalable technology strategies
Titilope Fakuade discussed over the importance of understanding business objectives to maximize business value and support growth initiatives. She highlighted the significance of a well-defined enterprise architecture that aligns with business strategy, serving as a foundation for scalable technology solutions. Fakuade outlined key approaches, including scaling with the ability to add capacity on demand through virtualization and cloud technologies, embracing data driven technology decisions, and adopting future-proof solutions. Continuous improvement through key performance measurement monitoring is also integral to the evolution of technology strategies.
Fakuade emphasized the importance of fostering collaboration between technology and business teams to drive innovation. This collaboration enables the technology team to understand business needs better, thereby guiding technology deliveries effectively. She also discussed a transformation journey for the technology team towards customer and business centricity, highlighting the importance of aligning technology initiatives with the organization’s overarching goals.
Introducing new products and services
Titilope Fakuade stresses the importance of customer centricity in product design, fueled by a deep understanding of customer needs through business insights. She emphasizes the need for agile teams to improve time to market while embracing new technologies. Her motto revolves around meeting consumers where their passions lie, driving innovation to cater to evolving needs.
Strategies for alignment and collaboration
Titilope Fakuade underscores the importance of understanding the “why” and “how” behind every task in effectively delivering value. Fakuade emphasizes the need for teams to grasp the broader context of their work and its alignment with the organization’s overarching vision. This understanding empowers teams to see themselves as integral components in the achievement of larger goals.
Communication and engagement are pivotal in fostering this alignment and understanding. Fakuade advocates for an environment of openness and transparency, where teams feel empowered to share ideas and voice concerns freely. Regular team meetings serve as platforms for information dissemination, collaboration, and knowledge sharing. Additionally, creating a culture of recognition, both for individual and collective achievements, reinforces a sense of belonging and motivates teams to excel.
Team building sessions are vital in nurturing cohesion and camaraderie among team members. Fakuade leads by example, demonstrating alignment and collaboration in all aspects of their work, thereby setting a standard for others to follow. Moreover, fostering trust and respect is paramount. Fakuade emphasizes the importance of inclusivity and supportiveness, ensuring that every team member feels valued and heard. By championing these principles, Fakuade cultivates a work environment where teams thrive and collectively contribute to the organization’s success.
Fostering a culture of continuous learning
Titilope Fakuade emphasizes the importance of scheduled knowledge-sharing sessions across the team to foster continuous learning and development. These sessions provide a platform for team members to share insights, best practices, and lessons learned from their experiences. Fakuade advocates for recognizing and celebrating learning efforts, underscoring the organization’s commitment to individual growth and development.
Furthermore, Fakuade encourages the sharing of information not only within teams but also across different departments or groups within the organization. This cross-pollination of knowledge encourages collaboration and innovation. In addition to knowledge sharing, Fakuade believes in providing opportunities for individuals to grow through stretch assignments supported by coaching and mentorship. These experiences challenge individuals to expand their skills and capabilities, ultimately contributing to their professional development.
Communication about the purpose and value of learning and development is essential. Fakuade suggests leaders should articulate the significance of continuous learning, leading by example by sharing their own learning experiences and encouraging others to do the same. Leaders inspire their teams to prioritize growth and education by demonstrating a commitment to learning and development.
As a leader, Fakuade believes it is crucial to model this behavior by continually seeking opportunities to learn and grow. By staying curious and engaged in their own development, leaders set a positive example for their teams, reinforcing the organization’s culture of continuous improvement.
Insights from her book on personal and professional values
Titilope Fakuade recently authored a book titled “Limitless: 11 Strategies to Master Life and Career,” with the aim of sharing actionable strategies for personal and professional growth. The book draws from Fakuade’s extensive career experience and mentors others by providing insights into navigating life, career, and relationships.
Motivated by a desire to pass on knowledge and mentor the next generation of leaders, Fakuade’s book offers practical advice that professionals can apply at any stage of their career journey. It emphasizes the importance of self-awareness, continuous learning, and offering value in all aspects of life.
One of the key themes explored in the book is the power of the mind and its influence on life outcomes. Fakuade stresses the significance of cultivating a learning mindset and being open to new experiences to unlock one’s full potential. The book also encourages readers to embrace discomfort and stretch beyond their comfort zones to discover new possibilities.
Furthermore, Fakuade highlights the importance of leadership, emphasizing that anyone can lead from any position within an organization. Through real-life experiences, the book illustrates why each strategy is essential, serving as a reflection of Fakuade’s personal and professional values.
Overall, “Limitless” serves as a guide for individuals seeking to elevate their personal and professional lives, offering practical wisdom derived from Fakuade’s own journey and values instilled throughout her career.
Steps to promote diversity, equity, and inclusion.
Titilope Fakuade is deeply committed to fostering diversity and inclusion within the organization and the broader tech community. Fakuade’s approach to promoting diversity and inclusion is grounded in the principles of Educate, Expose, and Empower.
Key steps in Fakuade’s strategy include skills development, talent showcasing, and creating opportunities for individuals to embrace new challenges. Fakuade actively engages in mentoring programs, providing guidance and support to young professionals within the organization and extending this mentorship to the broader tech community.
Furthermore, Fakuade champions thought leadership and various engagement programs aimed at promoting diversity and inclusion. Through speaking engagements, Fakuade highlights the value and benefits of embracing diversity, showcasing tangible examples of how diversity enriches organizations and drives innovation.
Installing focus among teams
Understanding the purpose behind leveraging technology to deliver solutions and the profound impact it has on communities and customers evokes a deep sense of fulfilment for Titilope. Witnessing the tangible benefits of technological advancements, such as enhanced connectivity and the convenience of mobile money services, translates the theoretical into the practical, enriching lives and transforming sectors.
Fakuade emphasizes that MTN’s fundamental belief in democratizing access to modern connected living permeates throughout the organization. When individuals see the tangible outcomes of their contributions and receive recognition for their efforts, it fosters a culture of collective empowerment. This recognition extends beyond hierarchical boundaries, inspiring all team members to rally behind a unified purpose, irrespective of their roles or seniority.
Fakuade underscores the transformative power of unity of purpose, highlighting how it catalyzes collective efforts and drives shared success across the organization. This ethos not only empowers individuals but also fuels a ripple effect of positive change, amplifying the impact of technological innovations throughout the value chain.
Balancing personal and professional development
Titilope perceives the integration of personal and professional life not as a delicate balance but rather as a dynamic dance or symphony, adapting to the rhythm of different contexts. Key to this integration is a deep understanding of personal values, consciously dedicating time to family and friends, and prioritizing self-care and exercise.
Professionally, Fakuade emphasizes the importance of forward thinking and continuous professional development, recognizing the necessity to evolve in an ever-changing landscape. Leveraging support systems and delegating responsibilities play crucial roles in managing time effectively and staying focused on priorities.
Gratitude serves as a guiding principle for Fakuade, who reflects on her journey with appreciation, fostering intentionality in her actions and interactions with others. Grounded in authenticity, she remains committed to personal growth, nurturing relationships, and cultivating a mindset of gratitude as she navigates the intricacies of both personal and professional life.
Advice to aspiring tech leaders
She emphasizes that the results and experiences one encounters in life are direct reflections of their beliefs and actions. With this in mind, striving for excellence in all endeavors becomes paramount, allowing excellence to permeate one’s work and interactions. Focusing on being a solution provider and consistently adding value while going the extra mile are cornerstones of success.
Continuous learning and adaptability are essential traits for navigating challenges and evolving in a dynamic environment. Fostering relationships is equally crucial, as they contribute to personal and professional growth while facilitating collaboration and support.
Fakuade underscores the notion that impactful contributions transcend hierarchical positions within an organization. Whether in a leadership role or not, individuals possess the capacity to make a significant difference starting from their current position. Leading by example and empowering team members to excel are pivotal in driving collective success and maximizing impact within the industry.
Ultimately, communicating one’s value beyond the confines of the workplace amplifies their influence and fosters meaningful connections that extend far beyond professional boundaries.
