Tochukwu Ijomah: The Visionary Behind Retail Intelligence Breakthroughs

Tosin Clegg

Tochukwu (Tochi) Ijomah has long been a name synonymous with innovation and strategic insight in the field of market intelligence. With an illustrious career spanning over a decade, Ijomah has consistently pushed the boundaries of retail intelligence, driving remarkable breakthroughs that have transformed businesses worldwide.

Born in Nigeria, Ijomah’s journey into the world of market intelligence began with a strong academic foundation. He earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Psychology from the Enugu State University of Science and Technology in 2007, followed by a Master of Social Work from Flinders University in Australia. This diverse educational background equipped him with a unique understanding of human behavior and social dynamics, which would later become invaluable in his professional pursuits.

Ijomah’s early career saw him at United Bank for Africa (UBA) in 2009, where he worked as a Relationship Officer. His responsibilities included deposit mobilization, revenue generation, and customer service. These initial roles provided him with critical insights into client relationship management and financial operations, laying the groundwork for his future in market intelligence.

In 2011, Ijomah joined Regius Services Limited as a Business Development Associate. Here, he was tasked with creating new business ideas, managing client relationships, and overseeing administrative functions related to bids and tenders. This role allowed him to sharpen his skills in market trends analysis and customer needs assessment, further enhancing his expertise.

The turning point in Ijomah’s career came in 2012 when he joined Nielsen, a global leader in market measurement and consumer insights, as a Client Service Executive. Over the next decade, Ijomah’s innovative approaches and strategic vision would see him rise rapidly through the ranks, culminating in his role as an Associate Director at NielsenIQ.

As a Client Service Executive, Ijomah was responsible for managing top FMCG clients in Nigeria and globally. His role involved account leadership, client communications, and the implementation of Nielsen’s integrated solutions to meet client business needs. His ability to analyze and integrate various data sources with market and industry knowledge set him apart as a leading figure in the company.

Ijomah’s promotion to Senior Client Service Executive in 2014 marked a significant milestone in his career. In this role, he provided strategic and tactical issue analysis and advice to guide business decision-making. He also played a crucial role in training clients on Nielsen Retail Methodology, driving business development efforts within existing client groups, and identifying new revenue growth opportunities.

By 2017, Ijomah had become a Manager/Client Business Partner for Sub-Saharan Africa at Nielsen. His leadership in this role involved overseeing Nielsen’s relationships with multinational clients across the region, developing strategic roadmaps based on big data and analytical rigor, and driving regional and central innovation strategies. His efforts were instrumental in aligning local market requirements with global business objectives, ensuring the success of numerous projects.

In 2018, Ijomah transitioned to Guinness Nigeria Plc as the Consumer Planning and Strategy Manager for Beer and APNARDS. His responsibilities included examining business decisions from the consumer standpoint, planning and coordinating regional consumer research projects, and managing a significant research budget. His innovative approach to consumer insights and strategic planning had a profound impact on Guinness Nigeria’s market positioning and brand performance.

Returning to Nielsen in 2019 as a Senior Manager/Team Leader for Retail Intelligence and Sales Effectiveness Practices, Ijomah led efforts to drive consistency in client management excellence. He identified opportunities where Nielsen solutions could support key business questions and implemented strategies to address client concerns. His leadership and strategic vision contributed significantly to the growth and success of Nielsen’s retail intelligence division.

In 2021, Ijomah co-founded Ignosia Limited, a marketing and insight consultancy dedicated to transforming businesses through consumer and market insights. Ignosia Limited’s mission is to integrate research insights into business decision-making processes, driving growth and success. The company supports clients across various industries, including FMCG, Health, and Agriculture, throughout Sub-Saharan Africa. Under Ijomah’s leadership, Ignosia Limited has developed a reputation for creating insights-led strategies that enhance customer loyalty, expand customer bases, and improve business performance.

Ijomah’s impact extends beyond his professional achievements. He is a thought leader who has contributed to numerous publications and presentations on topics such as retail landscape, COVID-19’s impact on modern trade, and the influence of social movements on consumer behavior. His insights and expertise have earned him widespread recognition and respect within the industry.

One of the most remarkable aspects of Ijomah’s career is his ability to create a broader impact on the market intelligence industry. His work has benefited not only the companies he has worked for but also influenced market intelligence practices globally. Through his various leadership roles and innovative approaches, Ijomah has helped shape the methodologies and strategies employed by market intelligence professionals worldwide.

At Nielsen, Ijomah’s efforts in integrating consumer and retail insights into business strategies have been instrumental in driving the success of numerous multinational companies. His work in Sub-Saharan Africa has particularly highlighted the importance of understanding regional market dynamics and consumer behavior. By tailoring strategies to local contexts, Ijomah has demonstrated how businesses can achieve significant growth and competitive advantage.

Ijomah has also been actively involved in mentoring and developing the next generation of market intelligence professionals. He has shared his knowledge and expertise through training programs, workshops, and industry conferences, inspiring many to pursue careers in this dynamic field. His commitment to capacity building and professional development has left a lasting legacy in the industry.

Moreover, Ijomah’s contributions to academic and research communities have provided valuable insights into consumer behavior, market trends, and strategic business planning. By bridging the gap between academic research and practical application, Ijomah has enriched the field of market intelligence with evidence-based approaches and innovative solutions.

Through Ignosia Limited, Ijomah has demonstrated the transformative power of market intelligence in driving business success. The consultancy’s focus on integrating insights into decision-making processes has helped numerous clients achieve their strategic objectives. By fostering a culture of data-driven decision-making, Ijomah and his team at Ignosia have empowered businesses to navigate the complexities of the modern market landscape with confidence and agility.

Tochi Ijomah’s vision for the future of market intelligence is one of continued innovation and strategic growth. He believes in the power of data-driven decision-making and the importance of understanding consumer behavior to drive business success. Through his work at Ignosia Limited and his contributions to the field, Ijomah aims to continue leading the charge in market intelligence, helping businesses navigate the complexities of the modern market landscape.

In conclusion, Tochi Ijomah’s career is a testament to his dedication, expertise, and innovative spirit. His achievements in market intelligence have not only transformed businesses but have also set new standards in the industry. As he continues to lead the charge in this dynamic field, Ijomah’s contributions will undoubtedly leave a lasting impact on market intelligence practices and beyond.

Tochi Ijomah’s work exemplifies how market intelligence can drive business success and create a broader impact on the industry. His innovative approaches, strategic vision, and commitment to excellence have set new standards in the field, inspiring professionals and businesses alike to harness the power of data and insights. As market intelligence continues to evolve, Ijomah’s contributions will play a pivotal role in shaping its future, ensuring that businesses remain agile, informed, and poised for growth in an increasingly complex and competitive market environment.