IAG appoints Dupsy Abiola as global innovation chief

Tech entrepreneur joins British Airways owner, replacing Stephen Scott Continue reading →

Tech entrepreneur Dupsy Abiola has joined British Airways owner International Airlines Group its new head of global innovation.

The former barrister and founder of award-winning HR technology start up Intern Avenue has also been a founding board advisor and mentor to the F-Lane start-up accelerator, which helps global female-led businesses, and a policy advisor to the government on youth employment.

She replaces Stephen Scott in the role after he joined Avios as chief digital officer.

Abiola was featured in the Observer’s Top 100 influential Black Britons in 2016 and nominated for the London Evening Standard’s Entrepreneur of the Year last year.

She has also appeared on the BBC’s Dragons Den where she was offered funding for her start-up.

Abiola will lead IAG’s Hangar 51 global accelerator working with start-ups and venture capitals on “disruptive concepts and ground-breaking technology to champion digital transformation across IAG”.

Head of digital business transformation Glenn Morgan said: “Dupsy will play a critical role in creating more speed and agility within our digital ecosystem which will ultimately bring a more connected experience for our customers.

“She’s a highly respected entrepreneur and leader with experience ranging from complex technical disputes to supporting high potential ventures on growth and innovation.”

Abiola said: “The aviation industry has entered the most exciting time as emerging and disruptive technologies have the ability to transform the passenger journey and the future of travel.

“I’m really looking forward to working with one of the world’s largest airline groups. The impact of IAG’s diversity and the sheer size of the company mean the possibilities are endless.”