Hassan Abdullahi
Master of Business Administration
1. Tell us about yourself.
I am Hassan Abdullahi, Deputy Managing Director and Board Member at Access Bank Tanzania Limited. With nearly two decades of banking experience across Africa, I have led initiatives focused on growth, innovation, and financial inclusion. My journey began with na degree in Mechanical Engineering, but my passion for finance and economic development led me to banking. I have earned a Doctorate in Business Administration and multiple master's degrees, including an MBA from Anglia Ruskin University. Outside of banking, I am a published author and founder of the Hassan Abdullahi Foundation, supporting education and youth empowerment in Nigeria.
2. What is your fondest memory of Anglia Ruskin University?
My fondest memories are the intellectually stimulating environment I found myself in and interacting with students from diverse backgrounds, which broadened my thinking and strengthened my strategic approach to complex business challenges.
3. What has been your favourite job?
Serving as Deputy Managing Director and Board Member at Access Bank Tanzania has been my favourite role, combining strategy, leadership, and innovation to drive growth and contribute to economic development.
4. In one word, how would you describe Anglia Ruskin University?
Transformational.
5. How did your time at ARU help you?
My MBA at ARU strengthened my strategic thinking, analytical capability, and leadership confidence, equipping me with tools to lead effectively in complex environments.
6. What did you love about your chosen course?
I loved the practical orientation of the MBA programme, which helped me translate academic knowledge into leadership decisions within banking.
7. What advice would you give to current students as they’re preparing to graduate?
Stay curious, embrace continuous learning, and build strong relationships while maintaining integrity. These are all important qualities; as much so as technical expertise.
8. What do you know now that you wish you had known whilst studying?
I wish I had known how important it is to build networks early; the relationships you cultivate during your academic journey often become valuable professional partnerships later.
9. Who was the biggest influence on your career?
Leaders and mentors in banking have been my biggest influence, shaping my leadership philosophy around resilience, integrity, and empowering others.
10. What advice would you give your younger self?
Trust the journey, remain patient, and recognise that growth takes time. Every experience contributes to developing the leadership perspective needed to make a meaningful impact.
11. Tell us something about yourself that most people don’t know.
My professional journey began in engineering before transitioning into banking, and that analytical mindset still influences my approach to strategy and decision making.
12. What’s next?
I am focused on driving sustainable growth in banking, contributing to Africa's economic development, expanding thought leadership, and scaling the impact of the Hassan Abdullahi Foundation.