Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Bankole Kumolu-johnson. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.
Hi BANKOLE, thanks for joining us today. Let’s start on the operational side – do you spend more of your time/focus/energy on growing revenue or cutting costs?
In my experience, the focus on growing revenue versus cutting costs often depends on the organization’s goals and scale. My experience at Apple showed the overall strategy leaned heavily towards revenue growth. The emphasis was on identifying and prioritizing key accounts for revenue expansion, developing B2B relationships, and driving sales. The belief was that innovation, market expansion, and product differentiation would naturally lead to increased profits, and cost-cutting was secondary to fostering top-line growth. This approach worked because the scale of Apple allowed for significant gains through revenue increases rather than relying on operational cost savings.
A specific example from Maverick Financial Literacy Inc. that illustrates the balance between revenue growth and cost management was when we reallocated administrative resources and leveraged digital tools to reduce operational costs. This allowed us to increase scholar engagement without inflating our budget. By streamlining internal processes and using technology to enhance our outreach, we maintained high-quality services while expanding our reach. This approach not only helped us grow but also ensured long-term sustainability. Ultimately, while growing revenue is essential for scaling, managing costs effectively is critical when the goal is to expand access while maintaining operational efficiency.
Awesome – so before we get into the rest of our questions, can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers.
I’m Bankole, and my journey into the fields of finance, technology, and education has been fueled by a deep passion for problem-solving and a commitment to driving positive change. I started in the financial sector, working with Union Bank of Nigeria, where I managed high-level projects, collaborated with cross-functional teams, and developed strategies that helped improve operational efficiency. My experience expanded further during my time at Apple, where I worked as a Specialist/Program Management Intern. There, I focused on identifying key accounts, building B2B relationships, and managing sales pipelines, gaining hands-on experience in business strategy and client management. Additionally, my role as a change management instructor at Bowling Green State University (BGSU) helped solidify my reputation as a strong communicator and leader, teaching students effective strategies for navigating organizational transitions.
Today, through Maverick Financial Literacy Inc. and my work with McNair Scholars advising, I focus on providing financial education and strategic advising to students and underrepresented groups. At Maverick, we offer personalized financial literacy programs aimed at equipping individuals with the tools and knowledge to take control of their financial futures. With McNair Scholars, I support first-generation and underrepresented students in their academic journeys, offering guidance on everything from research projects to graduate school applications. What sets my approach apart is my commitment to blending academic knowledge with real-world business strategy, ensuring that every client or student I work with receives a comprehensive, actionable plan tailored to their unique needs.
What I am most proud of is the impact I’ve been able to make by integrating technology and strategic resource management into everything I do. For example, at Maverick, we successfully reallocated resources and utilized digital tools to reduce operational costs while increasing scholar engagement. This type of innovative thinking allows me to solve problems in a way that is both practical and scalable. The key message I want potential clients, followers, and partners to understand is that I am dedicated to creating sustainable, long-term solutions that benefit both the individual and the organization. My work is about more than just increasing revenue or cutting costs—it’s about empowering people to achieve their full potential through informed decision-making and strategic growth.
Let’s talk about resilience next – do you have a story you can share with us?
A defining moment that showcased my resilience occurred during Maverick Financial Literacy Inc.’s early stages. When we launched our maiden program, the turnout was far below expectations, and it was disheartening after all the preparation and effort. However, instead of letting this setback deter me, I saw it as an opportunity to adapt and improve. I immediately began re-strategizing, leveraging the latest marketing channels to reach a broader audience while also engaging more directly with the local community. I used social media platforms to create awareness, partnered with local organizations to spread the word, and even implemented targeted outreach efforts to ensure we connected with individuals who would benefit most from our programs.
These efforts paid off in subsequent events, where we saw record-breaking attendance that far exceeded our original expectations. Not only did this increase our visibility, but it also moved us closer to our goal of providing financial literacy to underserved communities. This experience taught me the value of persistence and flexibility in overcoming challenges. Each setback can be turned into an opportunity for growth when approached with the right mindset. For me, resilience is about continuously learning, adapting, and finding new ways to achieve goals, even when the road gets tough.
What’s been the best source of new clients for you?
The best source of new clients for me has undoubtedly been word of mouth. When clients or participants experience the value of our services at Maverick Financial Literacy Inc. or through McNair Scholars advising, they often share their positive experiences with friends, family, and colleagues. This organic growth has been instrumental in expanding our reach, as personal recommendations carry a high level of trust. People are more likely to engage with a service when they hear firsthand how it has helped someone they know. The power of word of mouth lies in the authentic connections it creates, making it an invaluable tool for building long-term relationships with clients.
Image Credits
Photo belong to me or my organization: Maverick Financial Literacy Inc. and I have the right to use them. Thanks.