Lab Coats to Leadership: Ola Oladokun’s Journey
At first glance, Ola Oladokun’s journey might seem like an unassuming trajectory from university to industry. But dive deeper, and you’ll find a story of resilience, adaptability, and the pursuit of impact. Today, as a project leader at the Carlsberg Research Laboratory, Ola reflects on the twists and turns that brought him here, sharing insights that resonate with students navigating their own professional journeys.
A Chemistry Degree and a Pivotal Decision
“I started with an interest in drug design,” Ola shares, recalling his days at the University of Manchester. Inspired by a mentor, he chose chemistry over pharmacy, diving into the intricacies of organic synthesis. But after graduation, he found himself at a crossroads. “I was fed up with studying,” he admits.
This frustration led him to a technician role at the University of Nottingham, where he supported students with experimental design and data analysis. It was a transformative period: hands-on learning with cutting-edge instruments like HPLCs (High-Performance Liquid Chromatography) and GCMS (Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry) tools, and gaining practical insights that supplemented his academic knowledge.
The Brewing World Beckons
While at Nottingham, Ola’s boss suggested pursuing research, funded by a large brewing company. This opportunity marked his entry into the brewing world. His research focused on beer bitterness—an analytical challenge that required isolating compounds in a complex matrix. “It was fascinating,” Ola recounts. “I compared sensory data with chemical data, gaining a deeper appreciation for beer’s complexity.”
This seamless transition into a Ph.D. allowed him to expand on his Master’s work, delving deeper into the science of brewing. Ola’s decision to continue in academia wasn’t driven by a grand plan, but by the natural flow of opportunities.
Specialist to Generalist: A Leadership Evolution
Joining Carlsberg in 2017, Ola brought his specialist mindset, honed through years of academic research. Yet, as he transitioned into leadership, he faced a new challenge: letting go of the details. “As a specialist, you own every part of your work,” he explains. “But as a generalist, you broaden your knowledge and trust your team to deliver.”
He gave further insight to the specialist vs generalist perspective. To be a specialist means you sole focus and strength are within a particular area. You have total ownership of your work and it allows greater independence, something Ola valued in his research years. As a generalist you broaden your knowledge base and know something about everything. Their projects have a wider scope but rely on the expertise of others for successful execution.
This shift wasn’t easy. “I had to learn to delegate and embrace the bigger picture,” Ola reflects. “It’s about empowering others and focusing on outcomes rather than micromanaging processes.” He credits coaching as a key tool in his leadership journey, helping his team members solve problems independently while fostering their growth.
Challenges and Resilience
Ola’s journey has been marked by challenges—from freezing during a university presentation to navigating complex projects at Carlsberg.
“Failure is inevitable, what matters is how you navigate it. Every challange is an opportunity to grow.”
His advice to students is clear: “Stay curious and adaptable. Think about the bigger picture—how your work fits into the broader context.” This mindset, Ola believes, not only drives innovation but also provides purpose.
A Message for Students
Ola’s story is a testament to the power of resilience, adaptability, and purpose. For students, his journey underscores the importance of embracing uncertainty, seeking out hands-on experiences, and staying open to unexpected opportunities.
“Don’t be afraid to take a step back or try something different. Sometimes, the most valuable lessons come form the unlikeliest places.”
As he continues to lead projects that bridge science and business, Ola’s journey serves as a reminder: every path is unique, and every step—whether forward or sideways—is part of the journey.
“I was brought up with the motto: opportunity comes by once. If you get it, take it. There is no guarantee there will be another one.”
