Maryam Abisola Adefarati, a distinguished finance professional and Fellow of the Association of Chartered Certified Accountants (ACCA), currently serves as the CFO for Microsoft’s Africa Cluster. With a career that has seen her achieve all her childhood dreams, Maryam has experience previously working with Big 4 accounting firms and has traveled to over 30 countries. Her diverse background and global exposure have equipped her with a unique perspective and deep understanding of international finance, making her an influential leader in the tech and finance sectors.
Maryam’s journey in finance began with her achieving the ACCA certification, which significantly opened doors to prestigious opportunities and allowed her to work with top-tier accounting firms. Throughout her career, she has demonstrated a commitment to excellence, a passion for finance, and a drive to mentor and lead teams across various geographies.
At Microsoft, Maryam presently plays a critical role in driving financial strategy and operations across the African continent, contributing to the company’s growth and success in the region. Her leadership is characterized by a focus on innovation, efficiency, and fostering a culture of inclusion and diversity within her teams. Maryam’s contributions extend particularly beyond her professional achievements, as she actively engages in initiatives aimed at empowering women in finance and technology, serving as a role model and advocate for the next generation of leaders.
In this exclusive conversation, she explicitly explains how her journey began from a humble place after graduating best of her class from the University of Lagos.
Can we get to know you?
I am Maryam Abisola Adefarati, and the roles of wife, mother, and daughter are the most fulfilling parts of my life, bringing me the greatest joy. I am deeply spiritual, constantly reflecting on my purpose, whom I should serve, and the priorities I should uphold. Every day, I strive to stay true to these values, ensuring they guide my actions and decisions.
Coffee or tea? How do you take it?
Tea with lots of sugar and milk. I have a sweet tooth.
Did you have any role models or mentors who influenced your career path?
I have been fortunate to have many mentors and supporters throughout my life. It began with my mother and my older sister, Toyin, both strong women who persist despite all odds. My first manager at Arthur Andersen, Nike DeSouza, was instrumental in shaping my early career, instilling in me the confidence that a successful and balanced career in finance is attainable. Every manager I have reported to across different companies has embraced my authenticity and quirks.
They have believed in me even when I doubted myself and consistently found opportunities that highlight my strengths while making my weaknesses less noticeable. I would like to mention a few of them: Gary Slaney (Finance Director at BAT), Chris McAllister (Managing Director at BAT), David Langlois (Managing Director at Pernod), Sanjeev Kumar (Finance Director at Coca-Cola), and finally, my current boss at Microsoft, Tarik Bouarfa.
Can you share a bit about your career journey and what led you to
become the CFO of Microsoft’s Africa Regional Cluster?
My journey began with humble beginnings, struggling to land my first job despite graduating at the top of my class from the University of Lagos. However, it has been a path defined by hard work, resilience, networking, faith, and embracing new opportunities. I have had the privilege of working with top professional accounting firms and multinational companies. From the start, I was intentional about obtaining the right qualifications and working for companies that would provide the exposure and experience needed to build a world-class career.
As a lifelong learner, I never miss an opportunity to learn something new. I have also been deliberate in gaining a broad range of finance experience, covering areas such as audit, financial planning, commercial finance, treasury, tax, operations finance, risk management, and finance project management. This comprehensive experience has prepared me for a future role as a CFO.
What are some key leadership lessons you’ve learned throughout your career?
Throughout my career, I’ve learned several key leadership lessons. Here are seven of them:
Building Strong Relationships: Cultivating strong relationships and networks within and outside the organization is vital. It helps in collaboration, gaining diverse perspectives, and creating a supportive environment. I prioritize building quality relationships over trying to be friends with everyone.
Adaptability and Resilience: The ability to adapt to change and remain resilient in the face of challenges is crucial. Change is constant, and being able to navigate through it is a hallmark of effective leadership.
Effective Communication: Clear, honest, and transparent communication builds trust and ensures everyone is aligned with the organization’s goals. Listening actively and empathetically is equally important.
Empowering Others: Great leaders empower their team members by trusting them, providing opportunities for growth, and recognizing their contributions. This not only motivates the team but also drives collective success.
Continuous Learning: Leadership is a journey of continuous learning. Staying curious, seeking feedback, and being open to new ideas helps in staying relevant and improving constantly.
Integrity and Accountability: Leading with integrity and holding oneself accountable sets a strong example for the team. It’s essential to uphold ethical standards and take responsibility for actions and decisions.
Strategic Thinking and Vision: A leader must have a clear vision and the ability to think strategically. This involves anticipating future trends, setting long-term goals, and aligning the team’s efforts to achieve these goals. At Microsoft, our mission is “To empower every person and every organization on the planet to achieve more.” This mission permeates the entire organization, and everyone I have worked with is dedicated to making a meaningful difference in the world.
What has been the most rewarding aspect of your career so far?
The opportunity to inspire others to dream by sharing stories that encourage them to pursue their aspirations despite obstacles is incredibly fulfilling. Breaking glass ceilings, such as being the first woman from Nigeria to join the ACCA Global Council, has been one of the highlights of my journey.
How do you stay updated with the latest financial trends and technologies?
I leverage the abundant resources available at Microsoft, including numerous free training programs. I engage in both internal and external interactions to gain diverse perspectives and am a member of several communities, such as ACCA, where I connect with and learn from others.
What’s your favorite tech gadget or tool that you can’t live without?
My mobile phone.
What trends do you see shaping the tech industry in Africa over the next five years?
1. Artificial Intelligence (AI): AI will drive innovation across sectors like healthcare, agriculture, and finance, addressing local challenges and improving efficiencies.
- Mobile Connectivity and Internet Access: Increased mobile penetration and internet access will enhance digital inclusion, boosting e-commerce, fintech, and online services.
- Fintech Innovation: The fintech sector will continue to grow, offering solutions for financial inclusion and transforming how people manage money.
- Tech Hubs and Startups: The growth of tech hubs and startup ecosystems will foster innovation and entrepreneurship, providing support and resources for emerging talent and new businesses.
These trends will significantly influence the tech landscape in Africa, driving growth and development across the continent.
What exciting projects or initiatives is Microsoft working on in Africa that you’re particularly excited about?
I am excited about the work we are doing with the Africa Transformation Office, which is significantly dedicated to enabling Africa’s digital sustainable growth through five key focus areas: Digital Infrastructure, skills, SMEs, Startups, and Strategic Partnerships. There is a lot our SMEs in Africa can achieve with technology, and it’s great to see that Microsoft continues to invest in Africa’s digital transformation journey.
What do you enjoy doing in your free time outside of work?
I particularly love listening to songs that inspire and lift my spirit.
If you could give one piece of advice to your younger self, what would it be?
You are on the right track, keep pushing.
Finally, what book, podcast, or resource has had the most significant impact on your professional development?
The Bible.
