By Joke Kujenya
THE UNIVERSITY of Birmingham has made history by appointing British-Nigerian lawyer Sandie Okoro as its first female Chancellor.
The institute, on Tuesday, described it as significant milestone which highlights Okoro’s esteemed career and her unwavering commitment to equality and diversity.
Recognized as one of the UK’s foremost legal experts and a staunch advocate for equality rights, Okoro currently serves as Group General Counsel at Standard Chartered.
In this role, she oversees the Bank’s Legal, Group Corporate Secretariat, and Shared Investigative Services functions.
Okoro, a proud alumna of the University of Birmingham, will succeed Lord Bilimoria of Chelsea, who is stepping down after a decade of dedicated service.
She joins the ranks of notable predecessors, including the Right Honourable Joseph Chamberlain and the Right Honourable Anthony Eden, the Earl of Avon, becoming the eighth Chancellor since the University’s founding in 1900.
A graduate in Law and Politics from Birmingham, Okoro furthered her legal education by qualifying as a barrister at City, University of London.
Transitioning to the role of solicitor, she has held prestigious positions such as Head of Legal for Corporate Services at Schroders, Global General Counsel at Barings, and General Counsel for HSBC Global Asset Management.
Her distinguished career also includes serving as Senior Vice-President and General Counsel, and Vice-President for Compliance at the World Bank Group.
Adam Tickell, Vice-Chancellor of the University of Birmingham, expressed enthusiasm for Okoro’s appointment.
“We are thrilled to welcome Sandie as our new Chancellor. Her impressive accomplishments and dedication to breaking barriers in the corporate legal sector resonate with the core values of our university. Her story of overcoming challenges and advocating for equality is truly inspirational,” Tickell said.
As Chancellor, Okoro will play a ceremonial role, presiding over degree ceremonies and celebrating with graduates.
She will also engage with the community and stakeholders, advocating for the University and enhancing its profile on regional, national, and global stages.
Upon accepting the prestigious role, Okoro reflected on her deep-rooted connection to the University, saying: “The University of Birmingham holds a special place in my heart, being the alma mater for three generations of my family.
“Witnessing its progress and commitment to inclusive education and impactful research since my student days has been remarkable. I am deeply honoured to take on this role and contribute to the University that has given so much to me and my family.”
In recognition of her services to Diversity in International Finance, Okoro was appointed Officer of the Order of the British Empire (OBE) in the 2024 New Year Honours.
Sandie Okoro: Champion of Equality and Legal Trailblazer
FROM A young girl in London to one of the United Kingdom’s leading legal minds, Sandie Okoro’s journey is a story of determination, excellence, and a relentless pursuit of justice.
Born to Nigerian parents, Okoro’s upbringing instilled in her a strong sense of cultural identity and an unwavering commitment to education and equality.
Graduating from the University of Birmingham with a degree in Law and Politics, her career began with in full and positive force when she qualified as a barrister at City, University of London.
She later transitioned to the role of solicitor, holding prominent positions such as Head of Legal for Corporate Services at Schroders and Global General Counsel at Barings.
Her professional journey eventually took a global turn when she joined the World Bank Group as Senior Vice-President and General Counsel, where she also served as Vice-President for Compliance.
Her work at the World Bank was marked by her advocacy for diversity and inclusion, earning her respect and recognition worldwide.
In her current role as Group General Counsel at Standard Chartered, Okoro leads the Bank’s Legal, Group Corporate Secretariat, and Shared Investigative Services functions.
Her leadership is characterized by a commitment to ethical practices and a dedication to fostering an inclusive work environment.
Beyond her professional achievements, Okoro is a vocal advocate for gender equality and diversity.
Her efforts in promoting these causes have earned her numerous accolades, including being appointed Officer of the Order of the British Empire (OBE) in the 2024 New Year Honours for her services to Diversity in International Finance.
Sandie Okoro’s inspiring journey has been described as evidence to her methodical, vision, and unwavering commitment to making the world a more just and equitable place.
Hence, her appointment as Chancellor is deemed a tribute to her exemplary career and her dedication to fostering diversity and inclusion.
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