Driving Growth Amidst Change
Ngozi’s tenure at AXA Mansard has been distinguished by visionary leadership and strategic financial management. Since becoming CFO in 2017, she has led the company through a series of ambitious growth phases, most recently steering it to exceed its 2024 revenue targets by 32%, while also driving a near 50% increase in share price.
Her efforts have been instrumental in the company's successful adoption of IFRS 17, a move that reinforced AXA’s culture of transparency and accountability. As Chief Data Officer between 2019 and 2024, Ngozi championed digital transformation by launching enterprise-wide data initiatives that enhanced performance tracking and analytics.
Commenting on her impact, Rashidat Adebisi, Chief Client Officer of AXA Mansard Insurance Plc, stated:
“This recognition underscores the remarkable contributions Ngozi and her team continue to make in driving our company’s success amid a challenging and dynamic environment. Her strategic vision has been pivotal in achieving sustained financial growth, strengthening our market position, and reinforcing our commitment to transparency.”
Championing Innovation and Operational Excellence
Ngozi’s influence extends well beyond conventional CFO duties. She has spearheaded innovative tools and systems to improve both efficiency and customer satisfaction. These include:
- A KPI dashboard that improved organizational performance monitoring.
- A car valuation model that enhanced claims accuracy and reduced fraud risk.
- A remote vehicle inspection tool, which boosted service delivery and customer convenience.
Her ability to blend financial acumen with data-driven innovation has earned her a respected position in the industry, including a Non-Executive Director role at AXA Mansard Investments and APD.
A Champion for Women and Inclusive Leadership
Beyond her corporate achievements, Ngozi has remained a dedicated advocate for gender equity and mentorship. She is the founder of the AXA Mansard Finance Community, a platform that promotes continuous learning within the organization. She also mentors aspiring women board members through WIMBIZ (Women in Management, Business and Public Service), helping to shape the next generation of female leaders in finance.
Her commitment to sustainability is equally strong, as she plays a leading role in embedding ESG strategies into AXA Mansard’s operational model—ensuring the company’s growth is both inclusive and responsible.
In her acceptance remarks, Ngozi said:
“Being named CFO of the Year affirms AXA’s dedication to inclusive protection and fostering an environment where individuals are empowered to care and dare. This award motivates me to keep mentoring others, supporting women in finance, and contributing to impactful leadership.”
A Recognized Voice in Global Finance
Ngozi’s influence reaches far beyond the local market. She was recognized as one of Africa’s Top 50 CFOs in 2024 and serves on the Harvard Business Review Advisory Council, where she contributes thought leadership on global financial trends. She is also a regular speaker at high-profile industry gatherings, including the 2024 International Conference for Women in Insurance.
With over a decade of dedicated service at AXA Mansard, Ngozi Ola-Israel continues to embody excellence, innovation, and purposeful leadership. Her “CFO of the Year” award is a testament to her outstanding contributions—and a beacon for the future of women in finance.