Suggestions
Bunmi Durowoju
Snr Business Development Manager, EMEA - Microsoft AI and Cloud - Dynamic Change Agent - Digital Cultural Transformation - Emerging Markets and Technologies - Speaker - Entrepreneur - Founder
Professional Background
Bunmi Durowoju is a driven and accomplished Senior Business Development Manager specializing in Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Intelligent Cloud technologies across EMEA's emerging and developed markets. With a keen focus on forging strategic partnerships, Bunmi collaborates with an array of stakeholders to create locally relevant solutions, products, and services in dynamic industries such as Agritech, Automotive, Sustainable Energy, Connectivity, SpaceTech, Media and Entertainment, and IoT. Her commitment to bringing clean and ethical technology to rural communities underscores her passion for facilitating development and realizing potential in underserved areas.
In her role at Microsoft, Bunmi is an integral part of the extended MS Airband team, where she participates in project-specific virtual teams. Her efforts are dedicated to driving digital transformation through affordable connectivity and digital access initiatives, ensuring that technology serves as a bridge to progress rather than a barrier.
In addition to her professional commitments, Bunmi is a staunch advocate for inclusive and sustainable leadership, taking on the responsibility of leading the Underrepresented Ethnic Group (UEG, BAME) initiatives for the Women@Microsoft UK Board. This initiative aims to create a supportive environment that empowers women and underrepresented communities within the tech industry. By elevating diverse voices, Bunmi is working diligently towards ensuring that everyone has the opportunity to thrive in the evolving technological landscape.
Her passion extends to race, gender, and youth empowerment through her innovative platform, the Global Future Observer Initiative, which she founded in 2018. This initiative increases the inclusion and participation of young voices at industry events, providing them a platform to articulate their ideas and influence decision-making on matters that are pivotal to their futures.
Bunmi’s excellence and commitment to creating equitable opportunities have not gone unnoticed. In 2019, she was celebrated as one of the Top 100 Most Influential BAME Leaders in UK Tech by the Financial Times and Inclusive Boards. A natural thought leader and mentor, Bunmi is motivated by exploring the intersection of technology and humanity, and she embraces her role in positively disrupting the industry with empathy, integrity, and creativity.
Her mission is clear: to inspire new ways of thinking around inclusive business practices within the technology sector while supporting teams, leaders, and organizations in navigating the complexities of digital and cultural landscapes.
Education and Achievements
Bunmi holds both a Master of Science (MSc) from Queen Mary University of London and a Bachelor of Science (BSc) from the esteemed Oxford Brookes University. Her academic background has equipped her with invaluable skills and knowledge that she brings to her roles in the tech industry.
Her career began in law, serving as a solicitor in Intellectual Property and Information Technology at reputable firms such as Bevan Brittan LLP and Wragge & Co LLP. This legal foundation has provided Bunmi with a nuanced understanding of the regulations and challenges facing technological innovations today, particularly regarding commercial disputes and resolutions.
As she transitioned into business strategy and licensing at Microsoft, Bunmi demonstrated an exceptional ability to align corporate strategies with market needs, ultimately leading to her current position as Senior Business Development Manager.
Personal Interests and Community Engagement
Outside of her professional sphere, Bunmi is a dedicated mother of four, an entrepreneur, and a Toastmaster-in-Training focusing on the Visionary Communication pathway. Her interests extend into the realm of sports, as she aspires to be a rugby player, which speaks to her dynamic and engaging personality.
Moreover, Bunmi is fascinated by the intersections of technology, art, and creative industries, often reflecting on how these domains can influence and shape society. Her multifaceted interests provide her with a rich tapestry of experiences which she draws upon both personally and professionally, making her a stimulating conversational partner on a wide range of subjects.
At the heart of Bunmi Durowoju’s endeavors is a deep-seated belief in the potential for technology to foster inclusiveness and propel underrepresented voices into the forefront of the discussion in today’s transformative world. Whether through her advocacy work, business expertise, or community initiatives, Bunmi remains steadfast in her mission to harness technology for the betterment of society.
As a leader, mentor, and community advocate, Bunmi Durowoju’s contributions continue to have a significant impact within the tech sector and beyond, Inspiring those around her to cultivate their roles in driving positive change and embracing innovation in an inclusive manner.