Adebayo Ogunlesi, a distinguished Nigerian entrepreneur, first caught the public eye in 2016 when he was appointed by then U.S. President-elect Donald Trump to be a part of the "President's Strategic and Policy Forum," a group of influential business leaders tasked with advising on economic matters. For many, this introduction was a prelude to Ogunlesi's multifaceted journey that has recently culminated in the sale of his firm, Global Infrastructure Partners (GIP), for an impressive $12.5 billion to BlackRock Inc., the world's largest money manager.
Ogunlesi's name also resonated with a younger audience through Burna Boy's song "Wonderful," released in 2020 as part of his Grammy-winning album "Twice As Tall." The lyrics, "As I dey hustle like Adebayo Ogunlesi (No go talk say me I too lazy)," prompted curiosity among the youth, leading them to explore the identity of this enigmatic hustler.
Today, Adebayo Ogunlesi stands in the spotlight once again for a remarkable achievement, as BlackRock acquires GIP in a deal totaling $12.5 billion. BlackRock, currently managing an impressive $10 trillion across all markets, will pay $3 billion in cash and approximately $9.5 billion in BlackRock shares to GIP, which presently oversees assets exceeding $100 billion. This strategic acquisition sees Ogunlesi assuming a pivotal role on BlackRock's board and global executive committee, marking a significant chapter in his entrepreneurial journey.
Born in Sagamu, Ogun State, Southwest Nigeria, Adebayo Ogunlesi is the son of Professor Theophilus O. Ogunlesi, a trailblazing figure as the first Nigerian Professor of Medicine. His educational journey took him to King's College, Lagos, where he laid the foundation for a distinguished academic record. Subsequently, he excelled at Oxford University, obtaining a first-class degree in Philosophy, Politics, and Economics. Furthering his academic pursuits, Ogunlesi earned a coveted JD-MBA from both Harvard Law School and Harvard Business School in 1979.
Ogunlesi's career trajectory has been nothing short of extraordinary. During his studies, he delved into corporate law as a summer associate at the renowned New York City firm Cravath, Swaine & Moore. Post-graduation, he served as a law clerk to U.S. Supreme Court Justice Thurgood Marshall from 1980 to 1981, a testament to his legal acumen.
In 1983, Ogunlesi embarked on a path in project finance with First Boston, an investment bank, where he advised on transactions spanning the globe. His illustrious career continued to ascend, culminating in his role as the Head of the Global Energy Group at Credit Suisse in 1997. Subsequently, he held pivotal positions such as Global Head of the Investment Banking Division (2002-2004) and Executive Vice Chairman and Chief Client Officer (2004-2006).
In 2006, Ogunlesi's entrepreneurial spirit led him to establish Global Infrastructure Partners (GIP), a firm specializing in worldwide infrastructure investments within the energy, transport, water, and waste sectors. GIP's significant acquisitions, including London City Airport (2006), a majority stake in London Gatwick Airport (2009), Edinburgh Airport (2012), and Nuovo Trasporto Viaggiatori (2018), have underscored Ogunlesi's vision and leadership.
Apart from his entrepreneurial endeavors, Adebayo Ogunlesi joined Goldman Sachs in 2012 as Director, later becoming a Lead Director in 2014. His breadth of experience in the financial and infrastructure sectors has positioned him as a respected figure in the global business landscape.
A key aspect of Ogunlesi's personal life is his marriage to Dr. Amelia Quist-Ogunlesi, a British-born retired optometrist. Dr. Quist-Ogunlesi, who acquired her degree from City University in London, launched her practice in London before relocating permanently to the U.S. The couple shares two children, Geoffrey Ogunlesi, a music executive, and Carl Ogunlesi, a music producer.
In conclusion, Adebayo Ogunlesi's journey from his early years in Nigeria to his current stature as a global entrepreneur and board member of BlackRock is a testament to his resilience, intellect, and strategic vision. The recent acquisition of GIP by BlackRock solidifies his place as a leading figure in the ever-evolving landscape of international business.