Reclaiming Narratives: Building Legacy with Dr Nelson Ogunshakin FREng OBE

Building Legacy with Dr Nelson Ogunshakin

As we continue the important discussions sparked by this year’s Black History Month, we invite you to an inspiring session in December with Dr. Nelson Ogunshakin OBE, a distinguished engineer, business leader, and strategic negotiator.

In conversation with our very own Emma Opara, Dr. Nelson will share his remarkable journey, from his early experiences in civil engineering to becoming a transformative force in global infrastructure investment and leadership. He’ll reflect on his work with major projects like HS2 and the Elizabeth Line, his tenure as CEO of the International Federation of Consulting Engineers (FIDIC), and his strategic contributions to sustainable power and transport investments across Africa.

Dr. Nelson has spent over 35 years reclaiming narratives in industries traditionally dominated by others, building legacies that will shape the future of global infrastructure for years to come. His achievements, including being awarded an OBE, demonstrate the power of visionary leadership, resilience, and a commitment to leaving a lasting impact.

Though Black History Month may be behind us, the conversation around reclaiming narratives continues, and we invite you to be part of this powerful exploration of legacy building.

Secure your spot now!

About the speaker

Dr. Nelson Ogunshakin OBE is a distinguished engineer, global business leader, and specialist in infrastructure investment, finance, and procurement. With over 35 years of experience, Dr. Ogunshakin has made his mark as a strategic negotiator and expert in overseeing major infrastructure projects across the globe.

Most notably, he has served as a board member for High Speed 2 (HS2) Limited, a landmark rail transport investment between London and Birmingham, and led FIDIC (International Federation of Consulting Engineers) as its CEO, overseeing a 150% growth in revenue and transforming the organisation’s global impact. He has chaired several influential boards, including ARM-Harith Infrastructure Investment, managing a $250m fund that has contributed to sustainable power and transport projects in Africa.

Dr. Ogunshakin’s work spans across the UK, Africa, the Middle East, Asia, and the Americas, where he has provided strategic leadership, dispute resolution, and commercial advice on multi-billion-dollar infrastructure investments. His contributions have not only shaped cities and economies but have also redefined how infrastructure projects are financed, procured, and delivered globally.

Throughout his career, he has been a trusted advisor to major investment banks, private equity firms, and governments at all levels. A dedicated advocate for diversity and inclusion in engineering, he has championed initiatives to develop the next generation of leaders in the field.

Dr. Ogunshakin’s impressive academic background includes a BSc in Civil Engineering, an MSc in Construction and Programme Management, and an MBA in Strategic Management. He was awarded an Officer of the Order of the British Empire (OBE) by Her Majesty The Queen for his outstanding contributions to the UK’s infrastructure development.

As a Fellow of the British Royal Academy of Engineering and a visiting professor at Aston University, Dr. Ogunshakin continues to inspire and mentor future leaders. His profound impact on global infrastructure, combined with his commitment to leaving a lasting legacy, makes him a powerful voice in the ongoing conversation about leadership, narrative reclamation, and building legacies that stand the test of time.