Damilola Lawal is a dynamic Business Operations Expert with expertise in sales and retail operations at MAC Cosmetics (Sub-Saharan Africa), where she expertly addresses the diverse needs of their West African markets. She holds over 10 years of experience delivering result-oriented sales, retail and business operations solutions to global brands in the beauty, consumer electronics, and healthcare sectors.
Damilola is a trailblazer known for her innovative strategies and ability to build high-performing teams and retail salesforce. She is highly skilled at driving business development and forging strategic partnerships that elevate brand presence at the point-of-sale channels. She also has a deep understanding of global corporate and retail economies.
She is an alumnus of Covenant University, Nigeria and Bradford University, in the United Kingdom, where she bagged a BSc in Management Information Systems and an MSC in international business & management respectively. She is also an Associate Member of the Chartered Institute of Marketing (CIM) and a member of WIMBIZ, demonstrating her passion for promoting women’s empowerment. She was part of the distinguished panel of industry leaders on the power of Personal Branding at the recently concluded #BeautyInTheMotherland event. In her free time, Damilola actively pursues her passions for beauty, mentoring, and technology.
What do you consider the most critical aspects of business operations, and how do you prioritize them?
As a professional with over a decade of experience across various industries, I recognize that many aspects of business operations are important. However, I would like to focus on four key areas, which are effective communication, strategic planning, resource management, and process optimization. Communication ensures alignment and collaboration. Strategic planning sets clear goals and identifies opportunities and threats. Resource management allocates human, financial, and material resources efficiently, while process optimization improves productivity. Prioritizing these ensures robust business operations.
How do you stay informed about market trends and competitor activity?
I stay informed through a combination of reading, networking, and direct research. I regularly read industry publications and reports to gather insights from local and international markets. Networking is also crucial—attending industry events, webinars, and conferences allows me to engage with thought leaders and peers to gain fresh perspectives. Also, I maintain active relationships with key players in the industry for direct mentorship and collaboration.
Finally, I conduct my research by observing business trends, gathering feedback from internal teams, and interviewing stakeholders. All of this keeps me informed and competitive.
What strategies do you use to manage conflict or disagreements within teams?
I believe effective communication can resolve any disagreement within a team. For me, effective communication starts with listening. I create a space where all parties can voice their challenges, ensuring I understand each perspective to identify the root of the problem. We then collaboratively recommend a way forward, as I firmly believe in collaborative problem-solving.
What skills or knowledge do you think are essential for future business operations leaders?
Business operations leaders, both present and future, require a broad range of skills. If you focus on developing capacity in these five areas—leadership, communication, analytical skills, project management, and agility—you will excel regardless of your industry. Additionally, familiarize yourself with relevant software that can streamline your work, such as ERP systems and CRM tools.
How do you plan to continue growing and developing as a business operations expert?
As mentioned several times, I am passionate about personal growth and expanding my skill set. My growth plans are robust and include taking on challenging projects frequently and committing to continuous learning through relevant courses and training. I also strive to be among the earliest adopters of new and emerging skills, strategies, and technologies in my industry.
