Bayo Ogunlesi's Journey from Law to Investment Banking

Bayo Ogunlesi, a Nigerian-born investment banker and founder of Global Infrastructure Partners (GIP), recounted his career transition from law to investment banking during a virtual meeting with AIG Imoukhuede. Initially working at the prestigious law firm Cravath, Swaine & Moore, Ogunlesi pursued an MBA to better engage with corporate executives.

His shift to banking was catalyzed by a call from Hakeem Belo-Osagie, a former acquaintance from Oxford. He noted the differences between lawyers and bankers, particularly in client engagement.

This led him to join Credit Suisse First Boston, where he intended to stay briefly but ended up spending 23 years in the field. As of January 2025, Ogunlesi joined the OpenAI Board of Directors, contributing his expertise in corporate finance and infrastructure investment.

GIP managed approximately $100 billion in assets, with a portfolio that included major airports and infrastructure projects, reflecting Ogunlesi's ongoing interest in investment opportunities in Nigeria, especially in aviation and energy.