Trailblazing Professional Transcending Boundaries: The Inspiring Journey of Oreoluwa Atinmo

Oreoluwa Atinmo is one trailblazing professional who managed to cross two careers of different spectrums, making a remarkable transition from the precise science of engineering to the highly dynamic world of marketing. And being the go-getter that she is, Atinmo beat the odds to attain the highly daunting role of Marketing Director at GB Foods, a multinational conglomerate in the FMCG industry.

Atinmo started her career as an engineer at Heineken in Nigerian Breweries before making a bold move into marketing. She credits her undergraduate degree in Electrical Electronic Engineering and a Masters degree in Engineering for laying the foundation for her analytical skills. However, her vision for business leadership prompted her to prepare ahead for the leap of faith and pursue a passionate career in marketing.

In this interview with Fatai Tijani-Alabi, Atinmo shares her journey, challenges, successes, and valuable advice for aspiring female professionals.

Her educational background includes a first-class degree in Electrical and Electronic Engineering from the University of Nottingham and a master’s in petroleum engineering from Imperial College London. She began her professional journey as a Sub-Sea Engineer Intern at Shell Nigeria and later contributed to BP’s Gulf of Mexico oil spill response before joining Heineken.

Oreoluwa faced significant challenges transitioning from engineering to marketing. According to her, she had to adapt to a more subjective and nuanced field, where opinions and consumer behavior play a crucial role. Reflecting on the transition, she noted the challenges of adapting to a more subjective discipline where success is determined by consumer resonance rather than technical precision.

“Marketing isn’t black or white like engineering,” Atinmo explains. “As an engineer, it’s clear-cut—either the machine is running, or it’s not. In marketing, your success depends on how well you connect with your consumers. You may think you’re communicating effectively, but if it doesn’t resonate with your audience, it won’t translate into sales or conversions.”

Atinmo credits her family for instilling strong values and hard work. Her career growth has been significantly influenced by her husband, two inspiring bosses, and her mentors.

As Marketing Director at GB Foods, Atinmo oversees a diverse product portfolio, including Gino Tomato Paste, Bama mayonnaise, Gino herbs, spices, and Gino Max seasoning cubes. Her focus is on expanding regional presence, driving product innovation, and increasing marketing activations to meet evolving consumer needs.”We continually innovate for our consumers, we are very confident in our unique recipes.

For aspiring professionals, Atinmo offers valuable advice: maintain professionalism, stand for something, and most importantly, put God first.

OreoluwaAtinmo’s journey is a powerful testament to determination, hard work, and resilience. Her successful transition from engineering to marketing serves as an inspiration, empowering others to pursue their passions and achieve greatness.

Oreoluwa Atinmo is the Marketing Director, GB Foods Plc