Victoria Oladosu has accumulated over 5 years of extensive experience in various facets of the business world, including strategic operations, project management, product management, and analytics. She has consistently streamlined operations throughout her career, ensuring efficient and effective project completion.
Her expertise in product management has allowed her to oversee the development and launch of innovative products that meet market needs and drive business growth. Additionally, her analytical skills have enabled her to derive actionable insights from complex data sets, aiding in strategic decision-making processes. Victoria’s comprehensive skill set and dedication to excellence have made her an invaluable asset to every team she has been a part of. In this feature, she shared her story with us, what inspired her, and how she is making an impact with her organization.
Can we get to know you?
My name is Victoria Oladosu, A data product manager. In the last 5 years, I have built my experience in strategic operations, project management, product management, and analytics. I have worked with cross-functional teams to build and scale solutions that have achieved market fit.
I am also the founder of Product Hub Africa, an ed-tech organization providing training, career scaling resources, mentorship, and job opportunities for new tech talents; and Stem-A-School, an initiative birthed by Product Hub Africa to empower African students with resources to help them discover their innovative talents and develop their abilities to engage skills in tech.
My aim is to create a world where Africans are equally represented in the tech ecosystem by empowering them with skills and employment opportunities.
My hobbies are doing research, exploring new places, having meaningful conversations, and watching documentaries (especially crime).
How did your journey in tech begin?
For the record, I studied economics. I kind of enjoyed it, especially because it involved data and statistics, but my folks wanted my career to incline toward the financial/accounting rail. While this path was going well, it wasn’t fulfilling. After university, I dove into social media brand management, which proved to be very lucrative for me, but eventually, I got burnt out.
As I mentioned, I research a lot—I’m like the FBI in my group of friends, 😁. One day, during my research, I discovered a tech boot camp. I took the product design course and enjoyed it because I had prior knowledge of design from my branding career and also I completed two more design courses, but I still did not feel fulfilled; it felt like I was struggling in a cramped space.
I decided to go back to my drawing board and understand what each course offered in the boot camp was about. That was when I realized that product management was for me. There was no looking back, and since then, I have explored different areas in product management. Reflecting on how rocky the journey was for me, inspired me to create Product Hub Africa. This platform, now an Ed-Tech organization, helps people transition into tech seamlessly.
Did you have any role models or mentors who influenced your career path?
Talking about my career, my dad is actually my greatest role model. For mentors, I’d say Sim Shagaya of uLesson and Nivi Mukherjee of eLimu
Can you tell me a bit about your educational background and any relevant certifications you’ve obtained so far?
I studied economics at the University of Ilorin. Starting from my last year in school, I began building my portfolio of certifications in product management, accumulating close to 30 certifications in areas ranging from data product management to growth product management and product analytics. Additionally, I am currently pursuing my Master’s in Data Analytics at the University of East London.
You’re the founder of stem-a-school, how did the concept come about?
This initiative originated from our parent company, Product Hub Africa. Inspired by a deep-seated desire to make a meaningful impact, I pondered why we couldn’t extend this opportunity to younger individuals who are at the stage of discovering their career paths. This led to the idea of guiding secondary school leavers and university freshmen, enabling them to choose a path and develop their skills early on.
Our journey began with events in Lagos and Nasarawa. As we ventured into secondary schools in northern Nigeria, our impact multiplied. Many students there had only considered traditional careers like doctors, lawyers, or engineers. Witnessing their realization that there are other possibilities was immensely gratifying and validating.
In essence, their enthusiastic response confirmed that our efforts had left a lasting impact, empowering them with newfound knowledge. We provide these students with several weeks of training, STEM kits to aid their learning, and scholarships for those who demonstrate a strong interest in pursuing a career in technology.
Describe your job in three words.
Fulfilling, Daring, Nerve-racking
Why did you choose those words?
Being a Product Manager and founder is incredibly fulfilling. There’s this profound sense of alignment when you realize you’re exactly where you’re meant to be, fulfilling your purpose and doing what you were born for. It’s a daring journey because it constantly pushes me to strive for more. I’m always driven to surpass yesterday’s achievements and I thrive outside my comfort zone.
At the same time, it can be nerve-racking. Managing multiple responsibilities is demanding, and my mind is always racing with tasks and ideas. Most of my savings are reinvested into my startups, which means taking a vacation hasn’t been on the agenda for years! It’s all part of the journey, though, and I wouldn’t trade it for anything.
The journey from product manager to founder is quite narrow, what do you think makes that transition easy?
Transitioning on this journey hasn’t been easy—it’s perhaps the most challenging thing I’ve ever done. Yet, it’s incredibly fulfilling. Many people have made similar transitions; some find it easier than others. Personally, I’m still far from where I want to be, but I believe I’m making progress towards my goals.
Stem-a-school is still growing, what are some of the plans you have for it this year?
At STEM-A-School, we had ambitious plans for this year—to visit our partner schools in Lome and Ghana to empower students as we always do. Additionally, we intended to donate STEM kits to schools in Lagos. However, just as we were about to execute these plans, STEMCON emerged! This is a significant milestone for us, and we envision the conference becoming an annual event that will have a global impact.
We also aim to establish meaningful partnerships and collaborations that will allow us to expand our efforts for our beneficiaries.
What are some of the most rewarding aspects of working in tech for you?
It’s fulfilling to know that I’m developing solutions that benefit people around the world. This work connects me with others in the ecosystem who share my vision, leading to various career opportunities. It keeps me on my toes, constantly learning and honing my skills. Oh, and it helps keep my bank account healthy—can’t forget that!
What advice would you give to young women interested in pursuing a career in product management?
First and foremost, establish a career goal. Regardless of the field you’re in, having a clearly defined goal will serve as your guiding light. Sometimes, it may take time to discover this goal, but with a strong interest in advancing your career, you’ll uncover it.
Stay focused on your goal, actively build your networks, and maintain confidence in your abilities. Never cease learning, as continuous growth is key to success. Finally, remember to celebrate your achievements along the way.
Can you share any tools or techniques that help you stay organized and productive?
Techniques: I find writing down my plans, setting clear timestamps and deadlines, and effectively outsourcing or delegating tasks to be crucial. Interestingly, I used to own a planner and journal brand, so organizing tasks has always been a passion of mine.
Tools: I rely on Notion, Jira, Google Calendar, and iPhone reminders to keep me organized and on track with my tasks and goals.
If you could master one new skill instantly, what would it be?
Definitely not a tech skill, since those can’t be mastered instantly. Maybe baking, riding a bicycle, or learning how to weave my own hair would be more manageable and fun to master quickly.
What are some current trends in the tech industry that you’re excited about?
Apart from AI trends, I’m particularly excited about the future of virtualization, multi-cloud platforms, and renewable energy for green transport—these are trends that seem poised to shape the next decade significantly.
Can you share a book or resource that has had a significant impact on your career?
I’m a book lover, so it’s hard to share just one; I’ll share two instead—one that has impacted my personality and the other that has impacted my career:
- Personality: “Magic Jalabiya” by Ayo Oyeku
- Career: “Hooked” by Nir Eyal
It’s a pleasure talking to you Victoria.
Thank you for having me.
