Nelson Adeoti

A man leans against some railings with his hands in his jacket pockets and smiles at something off camera. You can see water in the background and The O2 in London.

Nelson Adeoti

BA (Hons) Business Management 2014

1. Tell us about yourself.
Hello! I'm Nelson, an ambitious and results-driven entrepreneur with a passion for innovation and creativity. My journey really began at Anglia Ruskin when I got a 2:1 on my dissertation on brand endorsements using social media. Fast forward to today, I am the founder and editor of 9bills, a leading digital platform for culture and music. We’ve been instrumental in shaping the landscape of entertainment and media, so much so that we hosted red carpet interviews at the MOBO Awards in 2024. Our platform has received accolades and nominations, including a recent nomination for 'Best Digital Platform.' Through 9bills, I've cultivated a strong presence in the music industry and fostered collaborations with artists, influencers, and brands.

In addition to my role at 9bills, I am co-founder of OFFBEAT Group, a full-service boutique marketing agency, with clients such as Atlantic Records, EMI, 0207 Def Jam and Island records. I leverage my expertise to drive impactful campaigns and promotions. 

I’m part of the 5th cohort of the Black Business Residency by Somerset house, which grants me access to a mentorship programme with industry specialists, personal and professional development through monthly skill-building masterclasses and peer-to-peer sessions as well as access to free co-working space at Somerset House in the Strand London. 

Outside of work, I'm a dedicated learner and enthusiast of various disciplines. I regularly engage in French lessons, therapeutic practices, and physical fitness activities like gym sessions and football training. I'm also passionate about music and regularly explore new genres and artists.

2. What is your fondest memory of Anglia Ruskin University?
All of it!

3. What has been your favourite job?
My favourite job is the one I do now. CEO. 

I get to apply learned theories and leverage real relationships to make cool things happen. Income is not always easy to forecast but when things go to plan, and I’ve been able to give other opportunities to shine and work collaboratively to execute marketing and promotional campaigns, it’s really fulfilling.

4. In one word, how would you describe Anglia Ruskin University?
Formative.

5. How did your time at ARU help you?
My time at university played a crucial role in equipping me with the skills and mindset needed to become an entrepreneur. The academic curriculum provided a solid foundation in areas such as business management, finance, marketing, and strategic planning, which are essential for running a successful venture. University life provided me with a vibrant community where I could cultivate valuable connections and relationships.

6. What did you love about your chosen course?
My degree in Business Management increased my chances of employability, as well as allowed me to make lifelong friends with people from all around the world. I also loved getting involved in the university’s football 1st team and studying interesting modules such as intercultural management.

7. What advice would you give to current students as they’re preparing to graduate?
Network strategically, seek mentorship, and don't be afraid to take risks or embrace failure along the way. Keep in mind any professional relationship you make could be the difference between making your dreams become a reality, so treat everyone you meet like they have this ability to change your life. Remember every master was once an amateur so don’t beat yourself up too much when you mess up as you will mess up!

8. What do you know now that you wish you had known whilst studying?
I wish I’d known that what I learned outside the classroom is just as valuable as what I learned in it. The social skills and exposure to people from all over the country, and the world, allowed me to learn key skills I use within my work and life today. Being able to talk to anyone and have those crucial networking skills in halls translated to me being able to work with big brands and build key working relationships with all seniority levels from interns to CEOs. 

9. Who was the biggest influence on your career?
Stuart J Davidson, he’s currently Vice President of International Marketing at Exterro but he was my Marketing Manager at my first full time marketing executive role. 
Starting working life in a fast paced agency with a manager with an infectious work ethic and a willingness to share knowledge was a blessing I wouldn’t have known to ask for. We are still good friends today and have travelled to 5 countries together.

10. What advice would you give your younger self?
To retain the creative and personal bravery required to go alone and start something for yourself. I see myself as a self-made entrepreneur, and the reason I enjoy and am so passionate about what I do now is because I focused on my passions and worked out how to make them a reality. I now have the pleasure of working with artists and brands that I’m naturally drawn to, and it allows me a great deal of authenticity within my work. 

11. Tell us something about yourself that most people don’t know.
I don’t know how, but I know quite a bit about Cuban politics...

12. What’s next?
Watch this space. We're going global!