TechQuest International Awards 2023 | Women in Energy Leadership Feature
At the just-concluded TechQuest International Conference 2023, held under the theme “Innovation, Sustainability, and the Future of Energy,” one name echoed across the grand hall as a symbol of precision, perseverance, and leadership: Ms. Olamide Bayeroju, the recipient of the prestigious Women in Energy Leadership Award 2023.
The award, one of the most anticipated recognitions of the evening, celebrates women who are not only redefining leadership in the global energy ecosystem but are also driving measurable transformation within their organizations. For Olamide, this recognition was not just another milestone; it was a reflection of nearly a decade of excellence in supply chain management, logistics optimization, and integrated activity planning within one of the world’s most complex and dynamic sectors, the oil and gas industry.
From her early beginnings as a Logistics Graduate at Shell Petroleum Development Company (SPDC) in Nigeria in 2014, Olamide’s career has been a steady ascent built on intelligence, discipline, and a relentless commitment to results. Over the years, she has moved through strategic roles that showcased her mastery in supply chain operations: Planning and Logistics Advisor, Integrated Logistics Scheduler, and most recently, Short-Term Integrated Activity Planner at Shell Brunei. Her work has consistently delivered tangible business value, including over $1.1 million in annual savings during her early years at SPDC, another $1.4 million in efficiency gains while serving at SNEPCo, and $4 million in cost optimization during her time at Shell Brunei.
Beyond numbers, what distinguishes Olamide is her approach to leadership, a blend of analytical discipline, people-centered management, and an unwavering focus on safety and sustainability. She leads with purpose, mentors with empathy, and delivers with precision.
Shortly after receiving her award, Ms. Bayeroju sat down with TechQuest Media to share her journey, lessons, and reflections on what it truly means to lead with excellence in an ever-evolving energy landscape.
Interview with Ms. Olamide Bayeroju
Q1: You’ve built a remarkable career in supply chain and logistics within the oil and gas sector. What first inspired you to pursue this path, and how did those early years at SPDC shape your leadership journey?
Olamide Bayeroju: My journey into the oil and gas industry was inspired by a deep curiosity for how things move, not just physically but strategically. I’ve always been drawn to structure, coordination, and efficiency. During my time studying Business Administration at the University of Kent, and later my Master’s in International Employment Relations and Human Resource Management at the London School of Economics, I became fascinated by the relationship between people, processes, and performance. Supply chain management, I realized, was where all those elements intersected.
When I joined Shell Petroleum Development Company (SPDC) in 2014 as a Logistics Graduate, I was stepping into an industry that was not only technical but also heavily male-dominated. That reality challenged me in ways that built both my resilience and my confidence. I remember one of my earliest projects, leading a business improvement initiative focused on reducing non-productive time (NPT) in logistics operations. We managed to bring NPT down from 24 percent to 7 percent, saving the company over $1.1 million annually. It was a defining moment for me.
Those early years were foundational. They taught me that success in logistics isn’t about perfection; it’s about precision, foresight, and teamwork. I learned to balance data-driven decision-making with human intuition and to always approach problems as opportunities for innovation.
I also had incredible mentors who modeled what leadership should look like, calm under pressure, committed to safety, and focused on value delivery. Working at Shell gave me not just technical competence but also a deep sense of responsibility toward people and performance. That period instilled in me the mindset that has guided every role I’ve held since: lead with clarity, execute with excellence, and never lose sight of the bigger picture.
“Those early years at SPDC taught me that success in logistics isn’t about perfection; it’s about precision, foresight, and teamwork.”
— Olamide Bayeroju
Q2: Your work at Shell has been defined by measurable impact; cost savings, efficiency gains, and operational transformations. Can you share some of the projects that best reflect your philosophy of strategic innovation?
Olamide Bayeroju: Every project I’ve worked on has been an opportunity to connect people, systems, and processes toward a common goal, which is efficiency. My philosophy is simple: innovation doesn’t always mean doing something new; sometimes, it means doing what we already do, better.
At SPDC, one of my key achievements was implementing a LEAN-based warehouse optimization model that not only improved space utilization but also enhanced inventory accuracy. That project was born out of necessity. We were facing issues of congestion, and instead of expanding storage, we revisited the process flow. By introducing a visual dashboard system and real-time KPI monitoring, we created a framework that became a model for other departments.
Later, as Planning and Logistics Advisor, I managed logistics budgets exceeding $50 million (OPEX) and successfully drove cost reductions without compromising safety or quality. One of my proudest moments was delivering a 15 percent budget reduction in land transport costs, amounting to about $50,000 in savings, while also improving operational turnaround times.
However, my most defining project came during my tenure as Integrated Logistics Scheduler at SNEPCo. Managing deep-water operations in the Niger Delta required precision and agility. We developed daily vessel schedules for material movement across rigs, facilities, and drill ships. Within six months, my team reduced vessel turnaround time from 120 hours to just 33 hours, achieving $1.4 million in cost savings. That project reminded me that real innovation in energy logistics happens at the intersection of technology, collaboration, and human discipline.
At Shell Brunei, as a Short-Term Integrated Activity Planner, I took these lessons global. Managing over 50 offshore platforms, my focus was on harmonizing cross-functional operations, from Wells and Projects to Contracting and Warehousing. We developed an integrated logistics planning dashboard that improved visibility and accountability, achieving over $4 million in cost savings. It reinforced my belief that when people understand how their work connects to broader goals, excellence follows naturally.
“Innovation doesn’t always mean doing something new; sometimes, it means doing what we already do, better.”
— Olamide Bayeroju
Q3: You’ve worked across regions from Nigeria to Brunei managing integrated logistics and leading diverse teams. How has this global experience shaped your leadership philosophy?
Olamide Bayeroju: My international experience has completely reshaped how I view leadership. Working in Nigeria was where I built my technical foundation. Transitioning to Shell Brunei expanded my understanding of cultural diversity, collaboration, and adaptability. The energy industry is inherently global, and that means leadership must be both flexible and inclusive.
I learned that technical excellence alone isn’t enough; emotional intelligence and cultural sensitivity are equally vital. Leading a cross-functional team across different time zones and backgrounds taught me to listen more intentionally, communicate more clearly, and respect varying perspectives. In Brunei, I served not just as a planner but as a bridge between disciplines, ensuring the engineers, logistics coordinators, and contractors worked in sync.
What I found most powerful was the principle of what I call “people-first logistics.” In an industry that revolves around operations, machinery, and data, it’s easy to forget the human element. But behind every successful operation are people making decisions under pressure. As a leader, my role is to empower them with clarity, trust, and purpose.
I also had the privilege to serve as the Learning Lead for the Future Energy Leaders Brunei, where I facilitated knowledge transfer sessions, mentoring early-career professionals, and helping them navigate complex operational frameworks. These experiences deepened my conviction that leadership is about creating an environment where others can thrive.
Ultimately, leadership for me is not about authority but about alignment, aligning goals, values, and actions. Whether in Nigeria or Brunei, the principles remain the same: lead with empathy, communicate with transparency, and always put safety and sustainability at the core of every decision.
“Leadership is not about authority but about alignment, aligning goals, values, and actions.”
— Olamide Bayeroju
Q4: Congratulations again on receiving the TechQuest Women in Energy Leadership Award. What does this recognition mean to you personally and professionally?
Olamide Bayeroju: Thank you. Receiving the TechQuest Women in Energy Leadership Award 2023 is truly an honor. Personally, it’s a humbling moment, a reminder that every late night, every tough decision, and every challenge overcome has a purpose. Professionally, it reinforces the importance of staying consistent and values-driven, even in an ever-changing industry.
This recognition is not just mine alone. It belongs to every woman who has ever worked behind the scenes in logistics, supply chain, or energy operations, areas that often don’t get the spotlight they deserve. The award validates the importance of strategic planning and operational excellence in driving energy transformation.
I am deeply grateful to the TechQuest Awards Committee for recognizing the work that many of us do to keep operations running seamlessly and sustainably. It also challenges me to continue being a visible advocate for women in technical and leadership roles.
What makes this recognition particularly meaningful is its timing. The energy industry is undergoing a massive transition toward decarbonization, digitalization, and diversification. To be recognized now, as part of that transformation, means being entrusted with a bigger responsibility: to help shape the narrative of what women can achieve in the energy sector.
Beyond the plaque and applause, this award is a symbol of what’s possible when passion meets purpose. It reminds me to keep mentoring, to keep innovating, and to never stop pushing boundaries. Most importantly, it reminds young women watching that they, too, belong in these spaces.
“This recognition belongs to every woman who has ever worked behind the scenes in logistics and supply chain, the unsung engines of energy operations.”
— Olamide Bayeroju
Q5: As the energy industry shifts toward sustainability, how do you see supply chain management and logistics adapting to this transformation?
Olamide Bayeroju: Sustainability is no longer a choice; it’s a strategic imperative. Supply chain management and logistics are at the heart of this transition. Every shipment, every vessel movement, and every procurement decision has an environmental footprint. The challenge now is how we redesign operations to be both efficient and responsible.
For me, sustainability begins with data-driven visibility. When you can see your entire operational ecosystem, from suppliers to last-mile delivery, you can make better, faster, and more sustainable decisions. At Shell, we’ve embraced digital tools that allow predictive planning, risk forecasting, and emissions tracking. These innovations help us minimize waste, reduce downtime, and optimize energy use.
Another critical element is collaboration. Sustainability isn’t achieved in isolation. It requires partnerships across departments, industries, and even borders. Working with cross-functional teams in Brunei taught me that shared accountability creates more sustainable outcomes. When teams understand that sustainability goals are linked to performance metrics, commitment follows naturally.
Looking ahead, I believe the future of logistics lies in transparency and adaptability. Integrating ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) metrics into supply chain strategies will redefine how success is measured. It’s no longer just about cost savings; it’s about carbon savings, resource optimization, and ethical sourcing.
I also see tremendous potential in training and capacity development. The next generation of supply chain professionals must be equipped not only with technical skills but also with a sustainability mindset. This is where leadership, mentorship, and institutional support play a crucial role.
In summary, the energy transition demands that we evolve from efficiency-driven models to sustainability-driven systems, where every process, no matter how technical, reflects our shared commitment to the planet.
Q6: For young professionals, especially women, looking to make a mark in energy and logistics, what key lessons or advice would you share?
Olamide Bayeroju: My first piece of advice is simple: be curious. Curiosity is what transforms a job into a journey. Don’t just focus on the tasks in front of you; understand how your work connects to the larger system. That perspective will set you apart.
Secondly, embrace challenges. The energy sector is dynamic and demanding, but that’s what makes it rewarding. When I first started, I often found myself being the only woman in the room. It was intimidating at times, but I learned to see it as an opportunity to prove that competence knows no gender. Confidence grows from preparation, so invest in knowledge. Read widely, ask questions, and seek mentors who challenge you to think differently.
Another lesson I’ve learned is that integrity is your most valuable currency. In supply chain and logistics, where decisions have wide-reaching implications, trust is everything. Be consistent, be transparent, and deliver on your word.
To women entering the industry, never underestimate your voice. The world needs your perspective. Bring your authenticity to the table and don’t try to conform to expectations. Leadership isn’t about fitting in; it’s about standing out for the right reasons.
Lastly, remember to give back. I am where I am because others invested in me. Mentorship is not a one-time act; it’s a lifelong commitment to lift others as you climb. Join networks, volunteer your time, and use your platform, however small, to encourage others.
Energy leadership is no longer just about output; it’s about impact. My hope is that more young professionals will see that and step forward with courage and conviction.
As the lights dimmed on the TechQuest International Conference 2023, the message from this year’s winners was clear: excellence is not accidental; it is intentional. For Olamide Bayeroju, the Women in Energy Leadership Award is both a recognition and a responsibility. Her journey, from optimizing logistics operations in Nigeria to leading multi-asset planning at Shell Brunei, stands as a testament to what determination, intelligence, and discipline can achieve.
In a sector traditionally dominated by men, she has carved out a leadership path defined by innovation, empathy, and measurable impact. Her story echoes far beyond corporate boardrooms; it represents a new chapter for African women in global energy, a chapter built on skill, strategy, and sustainability.
As the world prepares for the TechQuest International Conference 2024, Olamide’s message serves as an invitation to every young professional, engineer, and innovator daring to make a difference. The stage is yours.
Join the next generation of change-makers as TechQuest continues to honor excellence, celebrate leadership, and inspire the energy revolution of tomorrow.
