Chidi Ekuma: Founder of Mellent
Chidi Ekuma
MSc Innovation and Entrepreneurship, 2023
Formerly from: Nigeria
First job: Software Engineer
Ambitions for the future:
My ambition is to scale Mellent into a globally successful business, setting a benchmark for how tech companies in emerging markets approach compensation and retention. Currently working on launching our financial wellness service in the UK as we seek to go global.
Founder of Mellent
Describe your current role and what attracted you to it.
As the founder of Mellent, I lead the strategic direction of our company, which is focused on leveraging AI to deliver personalised financial wellness for employed people and helping their employers tackle the challenge of employee retention in tech companies within emerging markets, particularly in West Africa. My interest in this area began during my master's dissertation at Warwick, where I researched the impact of compensation on retention rates in the tech sector. The findings from my study inspired me to create a business that offers an innovative solution to this challenge. My role is dynamic and requires me to wear many hats, from strategy and operations to navigating regulatory requirements, especially given our position within financial services. The journey so far has been both challenging and rewarding, with every day offering new opportunities to learn and grow.
What’s your favourite part of the role?
My favourite part of my role is the problem-solving aspect. Every challenge we encounter is an opportunity to innovate and find creative solutions. It’s incredibly rewarding to see the positive impact our work has on our customers and to witness the growth of our company, even in its early stages; serving over 1,000 employees in less than a year and processed over £800k till date.
What are the key skills you learnt at Warwick that have helped you with your career to date?
My time at Warwick equipped me with critical thinking, resilience, and strategic planning skills. The Innovation and Entrepreneurship program provided a strong foundation for understanding market needs, building sustainable business models, and approaching problems methodically. These skills have been invaluable as I navigate the complexities of building a business in the financial services sector.
Did you have a specific career path in mind when you chose to study at Warwick?
Yes, I knew I wanted to embark on another entrepreneurial venture. My previous experiences with start-ups, including one moderately successful business and another that did not achieve product-market fit, reinforced my desire to deepen my expertise. Warwick's program aligned perfectly with my goal to launch a business with a more strategic and informed approach.
What top tips do you have for Warwick graduates who would like to work in your sector?
Focus on understanding the problem you’re solving deeply—this will guide you through tough decisions and help you maintain your vision. Be prepared to adapt quickly and learn continuously, as the tech and financial services sectors evolve rapidly. Build a strong network and seek mentorship to navigate regulatory and market challenges.
What does a typical day look like for you?
No two days are the same. I often start with strategic planning and team check-ins, followed by meetings with stakeholders, including customers, regulators, and partners. Afternoons are usually dedicated to problem-solving sessions, refining our product based on customer feedback, or exploring new market opportunities.
What has been your greatest career challenge to date and how did your experience and skills help overcome it?
One of the biggest challenges has been navigating the regulatory landscape in the financial services industry. It took over three months after landing the first client to get the regulatory cover needed with lots of back and forth and frustrations at every turn. The resilience and analytical skills I developed at Warwick helped me approach these hurdles methodically. By maintaining a problem-solving mindset and staying adaptable, I've been able to guide Mellent through these complexities.
What’s the best piece of advice you’ve been given in relation to your career?
"Stay focused on the problem you're solving, not just the solution you've built." This advice has kept me customer-centric and adaptable, allowing Mellent to grow organically and remain relevant.
What should current students or recent alumni be doing to move their careers forward?
Start building practical experience as early as possible. Whether it’s through internships, side projects, or volunteering, the more hands-on exposure you get, the better. Also, never underestimate the power of networking—relationships can open doors to opportunities you never imagined.