Chinasa Success, a University of Windsor Odette School of Business alumna, is now a vice-president and human resources business partner at Citibank Canada, where she supports a global workforce and champions inclusive leadership. (SUBMITTED BY CHINASA SUCCESS/University of Windsor)
By Victor Romao
Chinasa Success still remembers the uncertainty that came with her decision to move to Canada, a bold step that would reshape her career and personal life.
Since then, the University of Windsor graduate has transformed that leap of faith into a career in human resources leadership at Citibank Canada.
Now a vice-president and human resources business partner, the Odette School of Business alumna says that the decision continues to shape how she leads and supports others navigating change.
Success arrived in Windsor to pursue a Master of Management, with a specialization in human resources management, driven by a desire to deepen her expertise and gain an international perspective.
The transition brought challenges beyond academics, as she balanced the demands of school with major personal changes.
“Moving to Canada meant leaving behind family, friends and everything familiar,” she says. “It was exciting, but it also came with uncertainty.”
Over time, that uncertainty became a defining period of growth. While completing her graduate degree, Success also became a mother, balancing coursework, career ambitions and the demands of her newborn.
The experience reshaped her understanding of resilience and leadership.
“It taught me that I was capable of more than I thought,” she says. “Managing competing priorities reinforced the importance of focus and perseverance during challenging moments.”
It also influenced her leadership style, deepening her sense of empathy and flexibility.
She now applies those qualities while supporting diverse teams in complex organizational environments.
Since graduating in 2022, Success has built a career across several industries, including recruitment, consulting, energy and financial services. Each sector has contributed to a broader perspective on the role people play in organizational success.
“Every industry taught me something different,” she says, pointing to the value of adaptability and strategic thinking developed along the way.
In her current role at Citibank, Success supports a global workforce. The position requires balancing business priorities with the needs of employees across cultures and backgrounds.
She says curiosity, relationship-building and business acumen are essential for effective HR leadership. Understanding how business decisions intersect with people’s experiences allows HR leaders to create solutions that benefit both employees and organizations.
Success credits the University of Windsor, and the Odette School of Business, with helping her develop that perspective.
“The program strengthened my management and HR knowledge while encouraging me to think more strategically,” she says. “Exposure to diverse viewpoints during my studies continues to inform how I approach decision-making and problem-solving.”
Beyond her corporate career, Success is committed to giving back.
She serves as an elected chapter council member with the Human Resources Professionals Association Western Region and as project director of Thryveo, an initiative focused on mentorship and career development.
Through both roles, she supports students, newcomers and emerging professionals, helping expand access to opportunities and guidance.
“Giving back is important because I’ve benefited from people who invested their time and encouragement in my journey,” she says.
Her advice to others following similar paths, particularly international students, reflects her own experience.
“Give yourself grace and be patient with the process,” she says. “Focus on learning, building genuine relationships and staying open to opportunities, even when they don’t look exactly like what you originally planned. Most importantly, don’t underestimate the value of your experiences and perspective. Your journey is unique, and it can become one of your greatest strengths.”