Esther Akinnukawe is the Chief Human Resources Officer (CHRO) of MTN Nigeria Communications PLC, a multinational corporation and Nigeria’s leading telecommunications brand. As CHRO and business leader, Esther has pioneered diverse best-in-class HR Transformational strategies for business performance optimization and sustainability. Under her leadership, MTN Nigeria received the prestigious Investors in People (IiP) Platinum accreditation and 2020 Employer of the Year award - Platinum 250+ Category in addition to other industry leading local and global awards. In 2021, Esther was recognized by Global Group Media via the NBC Washington post as one of 31 women making impact in Africa.

Esther is a credible business leader with expertise in HR and almost 30 years industry experience spanning consulting services, education, banking and telecommunications. She commenced her professional career with Andersen Consulting (which later became Accenture) and served on the Faculty of the Lagos Business School.

Esther is an alumna of Obafemi Awolowo University, holds an Executive MBA degree from IESE Business School, Spain, is a chartered member of the Chartered Institute of Personnel Management (MCIPM) and a professional member of Institute of Directors (IOD). In addition to her current role in MTN, Esther serves on the board of EDFIN Microfinance Bank as an Independent Non-Executive Director.

Esther’s mission is to pursue a life of impact and significance, influencing others to become the best they can be, while enjoying the ride. She actively contributes to actualizing this mission through life and professional mentoring support for diverse groups of people.

Esther facilitates human resources, leadership and faith workshops and enjoys reading, listening to music, and exploring new places. She is happily married and blessed with two lovely children.