A distinguished economist and seasoned development finance expert with a remarkable over two-decade career dedicated to shaping economic policies, fostering fiscal sustainability, and driving private and financial sector development on a global scale.
As the Managing Director and CEO of the Bank of Industry (BOI), Dr. Olusi brings a wealth of expertise honed through his extensive tenure with prestigious institutions such as the World Bank and the International Finance Corporation (IFC).
His illustrious journey commenced at the World Bank, where he significantly contributed to capital markets reform and conducted ground-breaking research on finance and private sector development in the Middle East and North Africa. Over the years, Dr. Olusi has assumed pivotal roles, including as a World Bank Country Economist for many countries, Economic Adviser at the Federal Ministry of Finance in Nigeria, and Senior Private Sector Specialist at the International Finance Corporation (IFC)
In fiscal policies and debt management, Dr. Olusi applies his expertise to ensure financial stability and transparency, a testament to his commitment to responsible economic practices. With a proven track record in project management, financing, and implementation, he has successfully led diverse projects, showcasing proficiency in lending and non-lending spheres. His strategic vision includes creating an enabling environment for businesses through thoughtful policy reforms. Dr. Olusi’s adept knowledge and management skills contribute to impactful initiatives, including newsletters and inspirational lecture series.
Dr. Olasupo Olusi’s comprehensive approach nurtures entrepreneurship and fosters overall business development. His multifaceted expertise makes him a valuable leader in shaping economic landscapes and driving transformative change. Noteworthy accomplishments include leading multi-million-dollar development projects, steering private sector diagnostics, and managing investment lending initiatives. In 2020, Dr. Olusi delivered the World Bank Group’s inaugural comprehensive assessment of Nigeria’s private sector.
At the Bank of Industry, Dr. Olusi is steering the organization toward transformative and competitive economic endeavors. He leverages his profound understanding of macroeconomic dynamics to drive sustainable development, implement strategic plans, and precisely localize corporate priorities. Devoted to the growth of Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs), he actively works towards economic diversification and drives impactful reforms in public sector entities, emphasizing improved governance and efficiency. Actively engaged in collaboration with multi-stakeholders, co-leading knowledge management initiatives, and spearheading impactful projects, Dr. Olusi continues to significantly contribute to the success and resilience of Nigeria’s industrial landscape.
Under his leadership at BOI, the six thematic focus areas are SMEs, Digital Transformation, Youth and Skills, Gender, Infrastructure, and Climate. Special focus and strategic initiatives will also be game changers for Nigeria’s private sector.
Dr. Olusi holds a B.Sc. in Economics from Hull University, UK; an M.Sc. in International Money, Finance, and Investment from the University of Durham, UK; and a Ph.D. in Economics from the University of Durham. He is a proud member of the Royal Economic Society (United Kingdom) and the American Finance Association (USA).
