Tunde Olayinka is the Executive Director for Communities and Skills at the Greater London Authority (GLA), where he plays a pivotal role in shaping London’s social and economic development. A seasoned executive with a distinguished career spanning local government, the Civil Service, and the voluntary sector, Tunde is known for translating complex social policy into impactful delivery.
Earlier in his career, while working for Central London Connexions, Tunde significantly reduced youth unemployment in some of London’s most deprived communities. He achieved this by forging a powerful alliance between businesses, skills providers, and employability support services — an approach that remains influential today.
At the GLA, he leads on tackling systemic inequalities, strengthening civil society, supporting young Londoners, and ensuring that businesses can access the skilled talent they need to thrive — while helping Londoners into good work. His strategic oversight of London’s skills agenda directly supports the Mayor of London’s commitment to building an inclusive and future-ready economy.
Tunde’s track record also includes leading the UK’s largest diversity and inclusion programme across the Civil Service, and overseeing critical national and local responses — from Brexit to Grenfell recovery.
He also serves as a trustee of London Funders and, outside of work, is a proud supporter of Tottenham Hotspur – the current Europa League Champions.