Issue 011 - Meet Oluwagbemiga Abiodun-Idowu
Data was the only field that truly resonated with me after exploring several career options.
Meet Oluwagbemiga Abiodun-Idowu, a Data Analyst at Multipro Consumer Product Limited. Oluwagbemiga’s journey into data began with a simple realization that data was the one field that truly resonated with his strengths and interests after exploring various career options.
Beyond his technical expertise, he places a strong emphasis on stakeholder management and effective communication, ensuring that his insights drive actionable outcomes.
Can you reflect on a setback in your data career and what you learned from it?
I once worked on a task that almost went wrong due to a system glitch and a lack of thorough data checks. This experience taught me the importance of never skipping minor data validations, no matter how routine they may seem. It reinforced the principle that attention to detail is crucial in delivering accurate results.
What are some key skills that are often overlooked in your field of data?
Stakeholder management and communication are often overlooked but are vital for success. The ability to convey insights clearly and build strong relationships with stakeholders ensures that data-driven solutions are both actionable and impactful.
Can you share a pivotal moment in your career that significantly shaped your approach to data?
While I can’t pinpoint one specific moment, I’ve found that my learning has been shaped by cumulative experiences. Each project, challenge, and learning opportunity has contributed to my understanding of the value data brings when combined with critical thinking and a focus on problem-solving.
What do you love outside of data?
I have a passion for photography. Capturing moments allows me to express creativity and explore the world from different perspectives, offering a refreshing balance to my analytical work.
What inspired you to pursue a career in data, and how has your motivation evolved over time?
Data was the only field that truly resonated with me after exploring several career options. Its logical structure and potential for creating value made it stand out. Over time, my motivation has evolved as I’ve come to understand the significant role data plays in driving business success. Knowing that my work can directly impact decision-making and outcomes keeps me inspired.
How do you balance the technical aspects of your role with the need for creative problem-solving?
Balancing technical execution with creativity starts with understanding the problem at its core. Once I identify the goals, I apply technical tools strategically to address the challenges while staying open to innovative approaches. Collaboration and listening to stakeholder feedback also help me generate fresh ideas that align with business needs.
How do you foster a culture of data-driven decision-making within your team or organization?
I advocate for data-driven decision-making by organizing training sessions to improve my team’s data literacy. These sessions highlight the practical applications of data and how it can solve real business problems. By demonstrating the value of data through actionable insights, I encourage my team to integrate it into their decision-making processes.
What role does mentorship play in your career, and how have mentors influenced your journey?
Mentorship has been instrumental in my growth, offering guidance and helping me navigate challenges. My mentors have influenced how I approach problems and make decisions, providing a foundation for success. Their insights and experiences have shaped my career, and I strive to pass on the same support to others.
Can you discuss a project where data insights led to unexpected outcomes or revelations?
One notable project involved promoting a product in a specific region. We initially believed it had the highest chance of breaking even. However, deeper analysis revealed that the product wasn’t as well-suited for the region as we thought. Instead, a less prioritized product showed greater potential. This insight allowed us to shift our strategy and achieve better results.
What resources (books, courses, tools) do you recommend for people to level up their skills?
One resource I highly recommend is Show Me the Numbers by Stephen Few. It’s a great guide to creating effective data visualizations that communicate insights clearly and impactfully.
Key Takeaways
Data is Transformational: Oluwagbemiga’s journey highlights how data can be a powerful tool for driving business success and making informed decisions.
Attention to Detail Matters: A key lesson learned from past challenges is the importance of thorough data validation to ensure accuracy and reliability.
Soft Skills Are Vital: Stakeholder management and clear communication are just as important as technical skills for creating actionable insights.
Data Literacy is Empowering: Oluwagbemiga fosters a data-driven culture by organizing sessions to improve his team’s understanding and use of data.
Creativity Meets Analysis: His ability to balance technical rigor with creative problem-solving ensures innovative and practical solutions.
ICYMI: Catch Up on Previous Issues
Best,
Ayoade Adegbite
Founder of Behind the Data