OYENMWEN UMOREN is a transformative leader and expert in technical sales and business development, with over two decades of exceptional contributions to the oil and gas and multinational business sectors. In this interview with Seun Adebiyi, she speaks on how to develop business in today’s challenging environment with connectivity, digital, and cloud solutions in the country.
As a Business Development Manager at Inq. Digital Nigeria Limited, Oyenmwen has been at the forefront of delivering tailored connectivity, digital, and cloud solutions that drive growth and efficiency for Fortune 500 companies and other global corporates.
A trailblazer with a strong foundation in Electrical and Electronics Engineering, Oyenmwen’s career is defined by her ability to align technical expertise with business acumen. Her work has consistently generated measurable value, from negotiating multimillion-dollar contracts to implementing innovative strategies that enhance operational efficiency. Recognized for her leadership and impact, Oyenmwen received the prestigious Vodacom Business Africa Award for Top Sales Hunter in 2018 and has inspired audiences at global events like the ITU yearly conference, speaking to empower girls and females in technology careers.
Beyond her professional accolades, Oyenmwen is passionate about mentoring emerging talent and driving social investment projects that leave a lasting impact on communities.
Her story is one of resilience, innovation, and an unrelenting drive to deliver results.
What inspired your journey into technical sales and business development?
A: My journey began with a fascination for how technology could transform businesses. Early on, I realised that many organizations struggled to bridge the gap between technical solutions and their business objectives. I saw an opportunity to provide that link, combining my technical background with a keen understanding of customer needs.
Over time, this passion evolved into a career focused on helping organizations leverage technology to drive growth and efficiency.
What unique challenges have you faced working in technical sales for the oil and gas sector?
The oil and gas sector is unique in its complexity and scale. One key challenge has been navigating the rapidly evolving technological landscape while ensuring that solutions are aligned with strict regulatory requirements and operational goals. Another is building trust in an industry that values long-term relationships. Addressing these challenges requires not only technical expertise but also an ability to communicate value effectively and deliver consistent results.
How does business growth become possible with tailored connectivity, digital, and cloud solutions?
In today’s fast-paced, digitally driven economy, businesses must be agile, scalable, and efficient to remain competitive. Tailored connectivity, digital transformation, and cloud solutions are no longer optional—they are essential growth enablers.
Seamless and secure data flow between teams, locations, and customers through high-speed internet, private networks, or IoT connectivity, businesses need a strong foundation to operate efficiently and support real-time decision-making.
Digital Solutions enhance productivity, streamline operations, and improve customer experiences. Automation, AI-driven analytics, and smart CRM tools enable businesses to respond faster to market demands and optimize resources.
Cloud Solutions provide the flexibility and scalability that businesses need allowing organizations to scale operations without heavy infrastructure costs while ensuring data security and remote accessibility.
How have you used your leadership role to drive innovation and growth?
As a leader, my focus has been on fostering a culture of collaboration and continuous improvement. I encourage my teams to think beyond conventional approaches, leveraging data and insights to craft tailored solutions for our clients. For example, I led a project that introduced a digital transformation framework for a major oil and gas client, which resulted in a 30% increase in operational efficiency. Empowering my team to innovate has been key to achieving these kinds of outcomes.
What strategies have helped you achieve success in client retention and relationship building?
Building trust and delivering value are at the core of my approach. First, it’s essential to understand a client’s unique pain points and craft solutions that address them effectively. Second, I prioritize open and transparent communication throughout the relationship. Lastly, I am committed to exceeding expectations, whether that’s through proactive problem-solving or offering insights that clients have not considered. These principles have been instrumental in fostering long-term partnerships.
What’s your advice to aspiring professionals looking to excel in business development?
Focus on continuous learning and stay adaptable. The business landscape is always evolving, and staying ahead requires keeping up with industry trends and being open to new ways of thinking. Equally important is building relationships—whether with colleagues, clients, or mentors. These connections can open doors and provide invaluable support throughout your career.
What legacy do you hope to leave in your field?
I want to be remembered as someone who not only delivered exceptional business results but also made a meaningful impact on the lives of others. Whether through mentoring, championing diversity, or driving social investment projects, my goal is to leave a legacy of excellence and empowerment that inspires future generations.
