Just a couple of weeks back, I had the privilege and honour of visiting a very good friend and former teammate of mine in Shell, Seun Adu, and his amazing family. Let me give a quick background into how I came to meet this great pal of mine to add some flavour into this small piece on this great bloke.

During my early days in Shell (specifically SPDC) back in 2009 (just over a year into my graduate devt. prog), I had been rotated at the time into a business finance role to support the logistics and aviation teams (each was like a distinct business). I had started my career in the reporting team that was primarily responsible for preparing SPDC’s internal and external financials/accounts that were part of the published consolidated accounts of the Royal Dutch Shell (as it was known back then). Business finance was a completely new experience for me at the time, but I was excitedly looking forward to the adventure of supporting and interfacing with non-finance teams. I was based in Port Harcourt, but my new bosses were primarily based out of Warri. So, I had to go see them in Ogunnu (Warri). Enthusiastically, there I was discussing the expectations of my new role with my new managers, Ganiu Musa (rest in peace, sir) and Kayode (“Kay”) Ogunjimi. Buzzing with plenty energy and excitement, I had asked them: “What’s your baseline, minimum expectations of me in this role? How can I help you achieve your own performance targets?”. These two gentlemen were so close that Ganiu (who was actually/officially reporting to “Kay”, but you wouldn’t know per the deep intimacy and friendship between them) was often working from Kay’s massive office. Their response was like the symphony of a master orchestra group perfecting its craft: “Do you know Seun Adu in Production? He is the GOLD STANDARD you need to emulate”. 

Interestingly at the time, I hadn’t yet known or met Seun. Today, I am super proud to write about this amazing gentleman. Seun has always been a beacon of humility in a way that is sometimes surreal. He is a true all-season professional who continues to work tirelessly for Shell and effortlessly weaving his magic wand when it comes to navigating the murky waters of people and stakeholders’ management (say, with JV partners at the NNPC). Seun's emotional intelligence and empathy are unparalleled, establishing him as a class of his own. He effortlessly navigates the complexities of human interactions, utilizing his gift of DEEP understanding of the “weather in the room” to create an environment that fosters collaboration and camaraderie. Having worked with him directly later on in the production/asset team, I was often in awe of his ability to forge connections on a profound level. Today, despite his exceptional talents and demanding role as a manager overseeing 18 individuals DIRECTLY, he remains super content, finding joy in the quiet fulfilment of his responsibilities. We often call him the "father of all" per his unwavering patience and genuine concern for his colleagues, no matter what their titles bear. Seun is not one to seek the limelight. In fact, he does quite the opposite. He is that deep professional who consistently does an excellent job quietly even when nobody is watching or paying any attention.

Another bit that is worthy of mention is his ability to weather immense pressure and feisty storms quite calmly. Seun's presence radiates with a unique blend of tranquillity and strength. His ability to stay composed, regardless of the size of the challenges on the table or on his plate, sets him apart from the pack. In an upstream energy environment often plagued by stress, pressure, endless deadlines, and internal/external shocks and tension, Seun's unwavering calmness serves as a guiding light. He is like a LIGHTHOUSE that rarely moves no matter the ferocity of the tide. He remains an oasis amidst the whirlwind, a testament to the power of composure and self-control. Challenges do not rattle him per my first-hand experience working closely with him; they merely serve as steppingstones for growth and learning. Seun's gentle leadership style is one that engenders a safe working environment that flourishes as a sanctuary of harmony and cooperation.

The intrinsic epicenter of leadership is all about people; and Seun understands this well. The Shell Finance leaders understand this as well. I recall when his current role was advertised back in 2021 while I was still there. The moment most of us saw the job description, we knew the ideal candidate for it. It’s like when a candidate’s exam script becomes the standard marking scheme. In fact, no other person could have done that job better. To manage almost 20 people scattered across over 15 massive technical and non-technical teams of over 1,000 internal stakeholders spread across over 3 gigantic entities in Port Harcourt, Marina, and Alausa? Let me not even mention the external world of vendors, JV partners, etc. To design such a job in the first place, you must be doubly sure a single individual could do it. Such a role is all about people and that’s what Seun is all about. I continue to talk to members of his team and other ex-colleagues, and I am not surprised about the amazing things I hear. His people-oriented nature has forged a tight-knit family where every individual feels valued and appreciated. Through his guidance, team members unlock their potential, surpassing their own expectations, and achieving greatness. His extraordinary ability to resolve conflicts and uplift others with his words is just remarkable. His unwavering support and unfettered belief in his team inspire them to conquer new frontiers. Every day, Seun weaves a tapestry of personal impact, leaving an indelible mark on the hearts and minds of those fortunate enough to work alongside him. it serves as a testament to the profound impact one humble soul can have. His journey remains fuelled by passion, dedication, and an unyielding love for the people around him. Seun's legacy continues to blossom, as he reminds us all of the immeasurable power found within acts of kindness, patience, and unwavering support.

 It's been 14 years now after that discussion with my former managers. And I am proud to call Seun my very good friend. And spending time with him, his partner, and their 3 amazing angels recently gave me more hands-on, distilled insights into how he manages to weave and keep it all together at work: A GREAT FAMILY + A GREAT HOME + A STRONG FOUNDATION IN CHRISTIANITY…