Decision Maker. Strategic Advisor.
Abisola Barber is a trailblazing & multi-award winning Professional, Non-Executive Director, motivational speaker and coach, with close to 20 years’ experience across various organisations, industries and fields. A passionate and outgoing individual, with a strong and dedicated work ethic, and a versatile skills base, Abisola has a proven track record in leading global programs and facilitating business transformation. Abisola is a well-rounded Program Manager & Chief Operating Officer, versed in Governance, Risk & Controls, Compliance, and Business Management at the Global Executive level; Abisola is a Director for a Global Investment Bank.
Abisola additionally holds experience in and exposure to an array of industries and professions including: Entertainment, Public/Third Sector, and Commercial Services. Her formative years were spent in Government and Politics, as a Strategic Advisor and Board Member for several Local Government Groups and National Agencies – providing strategic guidance for content, execution and delivery of key Children & Young People’s Services.
Abisola is a Non-Executive Director on the Council for the University of York, and Advisory Board member for the University of York’s School for Business & Society – demonstrating her curiosity and challenge and providing a fresh lens for decision-making.
Performer.
A born performer and true to her interests, Abisola is a speaker, coach, sportswoman and model.
Her professional work has seen her present on and write for national outlets including BBC (Television and Radio), London Live and The Guardian. Abisola is a sought-after motivational speaker and coach; and leads thought-provoking panel and seminar sessions on topics such as Women Leading the Way, Female Leaders in Finance, Diversity, Inclusion & Belonging, and Strategies for Success.
Through music, Abisola has sung in treasured music halls including the Royal Albert Hall and Blenheim Palace. Through sports and fitness, Abisola’s efforts have enabled her to partner with world-class brands such as Adidas, Nike and Puma in designing and shifting the industry’s response to sporting apparel for the modern woman. She has modelled for H&M, Levi’s and Marks & Spencer commercial output; and led the 2016 Nuffield Health gym campaign. Abisola refines her on-screen presence through Supporting Artistry activity for several feature films and television programmes.
Natural Leader.
A multi-award winning young professional, Abisola has been recognised by the likes of the Financial Times, Yahoo Finance, the Global Thinkers Forum, The Telegraph and Women in Banking and Finance. Her passion to make a positive contribution to society has led to her global recognition.
Abisola graduated from University College London (UCL) in 2014 with an MSc International Public Policy; and University of York in 2013 with a BA (Hons) Philosophy, Politics & Economics.
Abisola Barber 