Strong bonds between businesses and universities are vital, says CEO of bank

A key figure in the world of finance shares her views in an interview on the importance of strong relationships between corporations and universities.

Ana Botin, who is CEO of Santander bank, believes that the company’s joint initiatives with Imperial, providing funding for mobility grants, scholarships and support, will help foster a spirit of enterprise in students.

Ana visited Imperial today to meet Sir Keith O’Nions, President & Rector of Imperial, and recipients of the Santander scholarship. The CEO will also be on hand at the Grantham Institute Boardroom to talk to students from the Business School and answer questions about the world of business, finance and the challenges facing Santander.

Maxine Myers caught up with her during her visit.

Why do you think it is important for companies like Santander to work closely with institutions like Imperial College Business School?

The businesses and countries that will flourish in tomorrow’s world are those with the best ideas, creativity, and innovation. Those are things you find in universities, which are a breeding ground for entrepreneurs. By working with universities, through our Santander Universities Global Division, we have been able to support over 1,100 universities from around the world.  We are helping people and businesses prosper, thereby strengthening the UK economy and helping it prepare for the future.
 
How do you think students can benefit from the relationship between Santander and the Business School?

Thanks to the agreement we signed with Imperial in 2007, we have been able to provide funding for mobility grants, scholarships, support to entrepreneurs and more. The common theme to all of these is that we want to help foster a spirit of enterprise, help people see their ideas turned in reality and broaden their perspectives. Universities should open the mind to new experiences, and be places of optimism – where people ask “why can’t I realise my ambition?” We want to help nurture that culture, so if you're interested in studying or conducting research abroad, we might be able to help.

What was the best career advice anyone gave you? What advice can you give to students who aspire to be CEO?

Three things above all others are critical when you are leading a big organisation. First, always look forward. Learn from the past, but don’t live in it. You have to anticipate change and embrace it. Second, and related to that, is the need to keep perspective. Yes, you need to know the detail of how your organisation works, but you must not get caught up in it. If you do that then it makes it difficult for you to tell the wood from the trees – and you miss the big trends that are going to shape the future.  Finally, the most precious asset any organisation has is its team. Without committed, energetic and innovative people no organisation can succeed.  Good leaders inspire and motivate their team with a big bold ambition, a clear strategy and yes, lots of hard work. One hundred and one per cent commitment from the top breeds commitment throughout the entire organisation.