Ayotunde O. Adesanya is a highly accomplished and analytical professional banker with over two decades of experience in trade finance, corporate deal origination, relationship management, and transaction banking. With a deep understanding of finance, policy interpretation, and international trade rules, Ayotunde has consistently demonstrated her ability to navigate complex financial landscapes, deliver innovative solutions, and drive organizational success. Her career is marked by a strong track record of leadership, strategic thinking, and a commitment to service excellence.

Currently serving as the Group Head, Global Trade Group at Polaris Bank Limited (formerly Group Head, International Operations), Ayotunde oversees the bank’s international trade operations, foreign exchange business, and correspondent banking relationships. She is responsible for ensuring compliance with regulatory requirements, fostering relationships with key stakeholders, and driving the bank’s global trade strategy. Under her leadership, Polaris Bank has achieved significant milestones, including the restoration of severed correspondent banking relationships, the establishment of new trade lines, and a consistent year-on-year revenue growth of 100% since 2018. Her efforts have also led to a 200% increase in trade volumes and customer onboarding, solidifying Polaris Bank’s position in the international trade arena.

Prior to her current role, Ayotunde held several key positions at Skye Bank PLC, where she played a pivotal role in managing the bank’s international operations and trade services. As the Manager of International Operations (Trade Services), she successfully managed over 25 correspondent banking relationships worth approximately $800 million. She negotiated favorable trade finance rates, structured strategic trade transactions, and ensured compliance with regulatory policies. Her ability to interpret and implement Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) policies effectively contributed to the bank’s profitability and customer retention. Ayotunde also led the integration of international operations during the merger of EIB International Bank and Skye Bank, demonstrating her expertise in managing complex organizational transitions.

Earlier in her career, Ayotunde served as the Head of Funds Transfer Unit at Skye Bank, where she managed international funds transfer services, foreign exchange cash distribution, and domiciliary account balances. She implemented cost-efficient payment solutions, reconciled nostro accounts, and ensured compliance with banking regulations. Her leadership in this role enhanced the bank’s operational efficiency and customer satisfaction.

Ayotunde’s banking career began at EIB International Bank PLC, where she served as an Assistant Manager in International Banking Operations. In this role, she handled the establishment and negotiation of letters of credit, processed export transactions, and managed invisible transactions. Her ability to reconcile nostro accounts and liaise with regulatory bodies such as the CBN and NDIC showcased her attention to detail and regulatory compliance expertise. She also deputized for the Head of International Banking Operations, further honing her leadership skills.

Before joining EIB International Bank, Ayotunde worked at Societe Generale Bank (Nig.) Ltd as an International Banking Operations Officer, where she gained foundational experience in processing export transactions, establishing letters of credit, and reconciling nostro accounts. Her early career roles provided her with a solid understanding of international trade operations and banking processes, which she has built upon throughout her career.

Ayotunde’s academic background includes a Master’s in Business Administration (Finance) from Lagos State University and a Bachelor of Science in Accounting from Ogun State University. She has also pursued numerous professional certifications and training programs, including the Senior Management Programme at Lagos Business School, an Executive Diploma in Export from the American Institute of Extended Studies (AIES), and a Certified Specialist in Trade Finance certification. Her commitment to continuous learning is evident in her participation in technical training courses on treasury management, trade services, and credit school.

Ayotunde’s key strengths lie in her excellent negotiation skills, deep knowledge of international trade rules (including UCP 600 and URC 522), and her ability to build and maintain relationships with regulators and international financial institutions. She is known for her strategic thinking, organizational coordination skills, and performance management expertise, which have consistently driven results in her roles.

Throughout her career, Ayotunde has achieved numerous milestones, including leading her team to successfully launch the Polaris Bank brand in international markets, facilitating trade-related trainings for staff, and championing discussions with correspondent banks to refinance trade transactions for profit maximization. Her ability to balance profitability with regulatory compliance has earned her a reputation as a trusted leader in the banking industry.

Ayotunde’s career objective is to work in a dynamic and result-oriented establishment that values innovation, service excellence, and integrity. She is driven by a desire to deliver deep-seated, sincere service while contributing to the growth and success of her organization. Her hobbies include reading, staying informed about global financial trends, and engaging in community development initiatives.

Ayotunde O. Adesanya is a seasoned banking professional with a proven track record of leadership, strategic innovation, and excellence in international trade and finance. Her extensive experience, combined with her commitment to continuous learning and regulatory compliance, makes her a valuable asset to any organization. Whether leading teams, managing complex trade transactions, or driving business growth, Ayotunde consistently delivers results that exceed expectations.