Dr. Iyadunni Gbadebo is a distinguished Sales, Marketing, Branding, PR, hospitality and tourism professional with over two decades of transformative experience in business development for several industries. In the last 13 years, As Director of Sales and Marketing for Eko Hotels & Suites, she has become pivotal in reshaping Nigeria's hospitality landscape and elevating its global reputation.

"I am a living proof that our beginnings do not define our destinations."

Dr. Iyadunni Gbadebo is a distinguished Sales, Marketing, Branding, PR, hospitality and tourism professional with over two decades of transformative experience in business development for several industries. In the last 13 years, As Director of Sales and Marketing for Eko Hotels & Suites, she has become pivotal in reshaping Nigeria's hospitality landscape and elevating its global reputation.Her remarkable career spans hospitality, aviation, travel, tourism, and entrepreneurship, demonstrating exceptional strategic vision. At Eko Hotels & Suites, she leads sales and marketing for Nigeria's most prefered corporate hospitality brand, generating billions in revenue yearly. She has led the hotel’s diversification effort in sales, marketing and brand perception, from a business hotel to a tourism destination. She not only oversees the strategic direction at Nigeria’s biggest inflatable theme park- Hakuna Matata, she has also established Theatre at Eko Hotels, where exciting broadway style theatre productions are staged all year round.

As an entrepreneur, Dr Gbadebo has successfully built and expanded her health and wellness spa brand - Tirta Ayu Spa. A traditional javanese spa franchise from Bali, to five branches across Nigeria in the last 10years, growing the team to nearly 100 professionals.Similarly, as CEO of BGV Limited, she organizes high-profile corporate events and leads some of the most impactful experiential marketing efforts in her industry.Dr. Gbadebo's academic credentials powerfully complement her professional achievements. She holds a PhD in Business Management, with distinctions. Her extensive academic research work critically interrogated smart cities and the future of Tourism in Lagos State, Nigeria. She has a Masters degree in Marketing from the University of Salford,Manchester and a BA in Theatre/Performing Arts from the University of Lagos. Her educational background has equipped her with a comprehensive understanding of business that extends far beyond traditional boundaries.

Her diverse skill set encompasses unconventional sales and marketing strategies, business development, corporate communication, event management, revenue generation, and leadership.More than just a professional, Dr. Gbadebo is a visionary, committed to showcasing Nigeria's cultural richness on the global stage. She believes that every interaction has the power to reshape perceptions and open new possibilities.With an unwavering belief in Nigeria's potential, Dr. Gbadebo views the hospitality industry as an intricate tapestry—where luxury, wellness, corporate services, and cultural experiences converge to create extraordinary narratives. Her mission transcends traditional hospitality boundaries, focusing on creating transformative experiences that challenge existing perceptions, developing innovative revenue models, and mentoring the next generation of industry leaders.

Awards and Recognition

  • 2024

    Appreciation Award

    In Appreciation of your contribution towards the hospitality Business summit

    Vertiline Synergy
  • 2023

    Advertising Regulatory Council of Nigeria

    Having met the stipulated criteria for membership of the advertising profession is hereby formally registered as an

    ARCON
  • 2008

    Appreciation Award

    In Appreciation Of Your Dedication And Professionalism As Part Of The North American Airlines Scheduled Service Team

    NORTH AMERICAN AIRLINES
  • 2024

    Successful Doctoral Graduation

    Hearty Congratulations! DR. IYADUNNI ATINUKE GBADEBO On Your Successful Doctoral Graduation

    Maverick Business Academy
  • 2024

    Certificate Of Successful Completion

    Iyadunni Gbadebo Has Participated & Succeeded In The Training Module On Stress Management & Mastering Assertiveness

    GSDC Global Skill Development Council
  • 2024

    Appreciation Award

    In Appreciation For Your Outstanding Support In Developing Hospitality In Nigeria

    HOTEL EXPO NIGERIA

Dr. Iyadunni Atinuke Gbadebo is the Director of Sales and Marketing at Eko Hotels & Suites, Nigeria’s flagship corporate hospitality brand. Since coming into this role in 2011, she has pioneered strategic revenue generation models, including the soaraway success known as the Tropical Christmas Wonderland, which has generated billions since inception.