Renowned fashion entrepreneur Adenike Ogunlesi has been appointed as an independent non-executive director on the board of Unilever Nigeria Plc.
According to a statement from the company, her appointment took effect on Monday, March 24, 2025.
The organization aims to leverage her extensive experience to drive its growth and innovation.
Ogunlesi is a pioneering entrepreneur and corporate leader whose visionary approach has significantly shaped Nigeria’s fashion, retail, and manufacturing industries.
As the founder and Chief Responsibility Officer of Gatimo Limited, she has built Ruff ‘n’ Tumble into a leading fashion brand known for its craftsmanship, creativity, and dedication to African heritage.
With over 30 years of transformative leadership, she has introduced modern retail practices, advanced garment manufacturing, and brand storytelling, positioning Nigeria’s fashion industry on the global stage while mentoring emerging entrepreneurs.
Beyond business, she is a mentor, speaker, and advocate for sustainable enterprise, women’s leadership, and ethical governance. Under her leadership, Gatimo has become Nigeria’s leading garment manufacturer, producing over 1,500 garments daily and setting industry standards for quality and sustainability.
As the founding president of the Network of Entrepreneurial Women (NNEW), she has championed female entrepreneurship through mentorship, funding access, and advocacy, fostering a supportive environment for women-led businesses.
Ogunlesi’s impact extends across multiple industries, serving on the boards of Lafarge Holcim Plc, the Enterprise Development Centre (EDC) at Lagos Business School, WISCAR (Women in Successful Careers), and the Garment and Accessories Manufacturers of Nigeria (GAMAN).
She influences policy, governance, and industrial development through these roles, contributing to Nigeria’s sustainable economic growth.
A sought-after speaker and thought leader, she shares deep insights on entrepreneurship, leadership, and the future of African industries. She is also a certified Family and Life Systems Coach and a Neuro-Linguistic Programming Coach, equipping individuals and businesses with tools for transformative success.
Her education includes programs at prestigious institutions such as IE Business School, Lagos Business School, and the Gordon Institute of Business Science, where she specialized in corporate governance, strategic leadership, and retail management.
