Funmi Osineye: Building strong customer relationships and significantly driving sales at Nestle Professional

A multifaceted marketing and commercial expert with over 20 years of experience in marketing, category management, sales, channel development and business management within multinational industries, Mrs Funmi Osineye is a quintessential professional that has been performing wonders as the Business and Marketing Manager for Nestle Professional in Nigeria, a subsidiary of Nestle Plc.

An MBA in Marketing Management holder, Osineye had always been intrigued by how brands connect with people and influence their decisions from a young age. Also, she had always enjoyed seeing brand advertisements for products like Treetop, Planta Margarine, OMO detergent and ST soap. Having then discovered that she had a talent for understanding consumer behaviour and crafting messages that resonate with various audiences, she consequently decided to go into the marketing profession. And it is to further hone her skills in the profession that she proceeded to Lagos State University to obtain an MBA in Marketing Management.

Osineye who joined Nestle Nigeria Plc as a Key Account Manager in 2003 has since then held various senior management roles in sales, channel and trade management, brand management, HORECA and marketing management. No doubt, she has a deep understanding of the fast-moving consumer goods sector, having successfully nurtured and grown global brands like Maggi, Milo and Nescafe across Nigeria, Ghana, Sierra Leone and Liberia.

As the Business Manager for Nestle Professional, the out-of-home food sector for the company, Osineye is charged with the responsibility of driving growth and profitability for it by developing and executing strategic plans for the sector. She identifies market opportunities and consumer trends to enhance presence in restaurants, hotels, cafes, offices, catering companies, and other food service providers.

Asked about those that have been most influential in shaping her, she replied that two people stand out. Said she: ‘‘My father made a huge influence on my life. He taught me the importance of hard work, integrity and perseverance. Professionally one of my senior managers, MrsIquoUkoh, played a pivotal role in my career development. She mentored me, challenged me to think strategically and encouraged me to push beyond my comfort zone. Her guidance has been instrumental in shaping my leadership skills and career trajectory.’’

One of her significant achievements in the firm, she says was leading the launch of Maggi Jollof Seasoning which tapped into the one-pot-trend, party and catering needs of their food service clients. She was equally the one that introduced the Business of Food Series, a platform that engages key opinion leaders like chefs, caterers, hotel managers and others in the food industry, helping to build strong relationships, network and loyalty.

As the head of the firm’s out-of-home sector, Osineye is focused on team development in her division so that members can all be motivated in order to have a positive work environment. And to keep the team’s morale high, she makes sure that small wins are celebrated, while encouraging flexible working hours.

She believes girl-child education is fundamental to building a prosperous, equitable and stable society adding that educating girls has a transformative impacts on communities, promoting gender equality, improving health outcomes and fostering social stability.

And to aspire female professionals, she counselled them to be confident, proactive and resilient. She stressed: ‘‘While the journey may be challenging, with determination, continuous learning, and a strong support network, you can achieve your goals and make a meaningful impact.’’