Forbes human resources council admits Nigerian HR strategist Michael Ugbewanko

By Reporter

Nigerian management consultant, organizational strategist and leadership expert, Michael Odafe Ugbewanko, has been admitted into the Forbes Human Resources Council, an invitation-only professional body that brings together senior human resources executives, chief people officers, founders and business leaders shaping the future of work globally.

Ugbewanko, who is the Lead Consultant at Dmidaf Global Consult, joins an international network of C-suite executives, vice presidents, directors, founders and business owners recognised for their professional accomplishments and leadership in the human resources profession.

In a welcome message, Forbes Councils Member Success Specialist, Jessica McClendon, said members of the council enjoy access to an exclusive platform designed to expand their professional influence and industry impact.

“Welcome to Forbes Human Resources Council. We’re delighted to have you as part of our vibrant and empowering community. Here, you’ll have the opportunity to share your expertise with the Forbes.com audience, connect with industry-leading peers and access carefully curated benefits that support your personal and professional growth,” the message stated.

The appointment represents another milestone for Ugbewanko, whose work has centred on helping organisations build sustainable, high-performing institutions through strategic leadership, operational excellence and effective human capital management.

Over the past decade, he has advised hundreds of chief executives across more than 1,000 organisations, helping businesses strengthen what he identifies as the three foundations of long-term success—process, structure and people.

Speaking on his admission, Ugbewanko described the recognition as an opportunity to contribute African perspectives to global conversations on leadership, organisational transformation and the future of work.

“The future of business belongs to organisations that intentionally build strong systems and empower people to perform at their highest potential. I am honoured to join a global community of leaders committed to advancing excellence in human resources and organisational leadership while representing the innovation and resilience of African businesses on the global stage,” he said.

Widely regarded as one of Africa’s leading voices on organisational effectiveness, Ugbewanko was named one of the 10 Most Influential HR Leaders in Africa by Entrepreneur Magazine in 2025. He is also the author of HR Is Dead, a book that advocates a more strategic role for human resources in driving business growth and institutional sustainability.

Beyond his consulting practice, he convenes the Operational Excellence Conclave, a leadership forum held ten times each year for chief executives, founders, senior executives and political leaders seeking practical strategies for building resilient organisations. He also leads The Presidential Table, an executive advisory platform limited to 15 chief executives annually and focused on transformational organisational growth.

Academically, Ugbewanko holds a Master’s degree in Human Resource Management from the University of South Wales, United Kingdom, and a Bachelor’s degree in Philosophy from the University of Ibadan. He is a Chartered Management Consultant (FIMC, CMC), a Fellow of Corporate Governance (FCGP), and an Associate Member of the Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development (CIPD), United Kingdom.

His admission into the Forbes Human Resources Council reflects the growing global recognition of African business leaders contributing to discussions on leadership, governance, people strategy and organisational excellence, while strengthening the continent’s voice in shaping the future of work.