Sheila Akinnusi

Sheila Akinnusi is the Executive Head of Group Market Research at Nedbank, a leading financial services institution headquartered in South Africa and operating across six Southern African countries. With over two decades of experience spanning financial services, insurance, and FMCG sectors, Sheila is a seasoned professional in marketing, research, and business strategy. In her current role, she sets the vision and strategic direction for market research across the Nedbank Group, driving insights that inform business decisions. Her work reflects a deep commitment to elevating the role of research in shaping Africa’s financial landscape.

Previously, Sheila served as Chairperson and Board Member of the Southern African Marketing Research Association, and has contributed as a judge, expert panelist, and moderator on the global stage. Her expertise includes brand and business growth strategies, client experience management, customer journey mapping, and market segmentation. Sheila holds a MSc in Strategic Marketing from Edinburgh Business School (UK), a Post-graduate Diploma in Business Administration, and is a GIBS Global Leadership Development Programme graduate. She is passionate about lifelong learning, enjoys travel, golf, hiking, tennis, audiobooks, and time with her family.