Segun Ogunleye, one of Africa’s foremost marketing leaders has officially joined Diageo, a multinational alcohol company, as Head of Marketing, Africa Partner Markets. Additionally, he will serve as Beer Lead for South, West, and Central Africa (SOWECA).
Ogunleye’s move to Diageo follows over a decade of exemplary service at Seven-Up Bottling Company (SBC), where he rose through the ranks from Brand and Communications Manager to General Manager, Marketing. His tenure at SBC saw him spearhead the growth of iconic carbonated soft drink brands like Pepsi, Mirinda, Supa Komando among many others, drive innovations across multiple beverage categories, and expand into the Home & Personal Care sector with 2Sure range of products.
Announcing his new role via LinkedIn, Ogunleye expressed his excitement about the transition. He stated: “I am beyond thrilled to embark on a new chapter as Head of Marketing, Africa Partner Markets at Diageo! In addition, I’ll be taking on the role of Beer Lead for South, West, and Central Africa.
“As I bid farewell to an incredible decade-long journey with the PepsiCo bottler (SBC) in Nigeria, I am filled with immense gratitude. From leading iconic PepsiCo brands to new heights to driving game-changing innovation across CSD, Energy, Malt, and Isotonic categories, and even venturing into Home & Personal Care, this journey has been nothing short of transformative.
“To my SBC family, stakeholders, and partners, I thank you for your trust, support, and collaboration. Your impact on my growth as a Marketing, Comms, and Innovation professional is immeasurable.
“Now, I look forward to joining the Diageo family, contributing to the powerful legacy of celebrating life, every day, everywhere. I’m excited to work with an exceptional team, drive growth, and create unforgettable brand experiences.”
Ogunleye’s career spans diverse industries, having held key roles in leading global companies. He began his professional journey at Mondelez International as a Communications Specialist before moving to MullenLowe Lintas Group as Manager, Strategy. He later joined Nike as Brand/Marketing Communications Manager, where he further honed his expertise in brand building and consumer engagement.
Academically, Ogunleye holds an MSc in Media and Communications from the School of Media and Communications, Pan-Atlantic University, Lagos, Nigeria, and an HND in Mass Communication from Moshood Abiola Polytechnic. He also earned an Advanced Certificate in Strategic Brand Management, Public Relations, Advertising, and Applied Communications from the London School of Business and Finance.
His appointment at Diageo marks another significant milestone in a career that has been defined by innovation, strategic leadership, and impactful brand management.