In the heart of Bangkok, where the city’s pulse beats with commerce and creativity, an alliance has been formed that is setting the stage for an evolution in the banking sector. United Overseas Bank (UOB) Thailand and Thammasat Business School (TBS) have come together in a collaboration that’s akin to a masterstroke in the art of transforming banking professionals into agile, forward-thinking leaders. This dynamic partnership is aimed at amplifying the capabilities of UOB’s bankers through the Banker’s Executive Certification Programme—a venture that promises to redefine the essence of banking acumen.
Imagine a room, vibrant with the country’s finest minds in banking, from Mrs. Sayumrat Maranate, the trailblazing Head of Business Banking at UOB Thailand, to the insightful Asst. Prof. Dr. Orapan Yolrabil, the powerhouse behind academic affairs at Thammasat Business School. Joining them are Mr. Tan Choon Hin, the visionary President and CEO of UOB Thailand, alongside the industrious Ms. Sasiwimol Arayawattanapong, Head of Human Resources at UOB Thailand, and the academic luminary, Asst. Prof. Dr. Nopporn Ruangwanit. Together, with a group of business bankers eager to leap into this transformative journey, they stand at the cusp of banking innovation.
The heart of this pioneering initiative is a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) which fuses UOB’s profound insights into the financial needs of small businesses with TBS’s academic prowess. Over a span of three months, 30 high-flying Relationship Managers will embark on a quest that’s meticulously designed to blend lectures, case studies, workshops, simulations, and executive masterclasses into a rich tapestry of learning. Envision them delving into the latest SME trends, strategizing over simulations, and mastering the art of account planning, all while sharpening their leadership and communication skills to a fine edge.
Mrs. Sayumrat Maranate envisions this programme as a crucible where the next-gen bankers are forged, ready to cater to the multifaceted demands of SME clients. “This year’s programme isn’t just about imparting knowledge; it’s about sculpting banking artisans adept at crafting bespoke financial solutions,” she elucidates.
On the academic front, Asst. Prof. Dr. Orapan Yolrabil shares her excitement about fostering a synergy that empowers bankers with a customer-centric and agile mindset. “We’re not just teaching them banking; we’re mentoring them to become architects of financial dreams,” she asserts, highlighting the programme’s focus on nurturing decision-making prowess, problem-solving agility, and consultative selling finesse.
And in the realm of human capital, Ms. Sasiwimol Arayawattanapong places her faith in the transformative power of this initiative. “Investing in our people is investing in the future of banking. This partnership with TBS is a testament to our commitment to cultivating leaders who don’t just follow the future but shape it,” she reflects.
Since its inception in 2017, the programme has been a hothouse for banking talent, with 102 SME bankers having passed through its halls. Impressively, 55 of these graduates have ascended to senior management positions, embodying the programme’s success in nurturing the banking leaders of tomorrow.
This strategic alliance between UOB Thailand and Thammasat Business School is more than a programme; it’s a beacon of innovation in the banking sector, illuminating the path for bankers to become more than just financial advisors—they’re becoming the trusted architects of their clients’ futures. In the bustling streets of Bangkok, the future of banking is being written, and it’s a saga of vision, agility, and transformation.
Sounds like another expensive program that prioritizes theory over practical experience. I’ve seen plenty of these graduates, and while they might talk the talk, walking the walk in real-world banking is a whole different ball game.
I couldn’t disagree more. We live in a rapidly changing financial landscape. Theoretical knowledge coupled with practical simulations are exactly what’s needed to navigate these complexities. It’s not just about transactions anymore; it’s about building relationships and adapting to new technologies. This program seems like a step in the right direction.
Building relationships and adapting to technologies are important, no doubt. But, can a three-month program truly instill these qualities? Or are they just selling an expensive dream? Real experience takes years on the job, not a few months in a classroom.
Not sure if it’s all as groundbreaking as it claims. These partnerships have been around and it’s often more about marketing than really creating impactful leaders. How many of these grads actually bring change to the banking world?
This is exactly the kind of forward-thinking movement we need in banking today. It’s not about replacing traditional banking methods but enhancing them with new perspectives and skills. Kudos to UOB and TBS for leading the charge.
In my day, banking was about personal connections, knowing your client’s name, their business, and their kids. I worry that focusing too much on ‘innovation’ could lead us away from these fundamental principles that build trust and loyalty.
I hear you, but why can’t we have both? Imagine a banking future where we use technology to enhance those personal connections, not replace them. This program is about adaptability; it’s about preparing bankers to use innovation while keeping the client’s needs at the heart of everything.
It’s initiatives like these that blur the line between traditional banking and FinTech. While UOB and TBS are forging the next gen of bankers, it’s the FinTech startups that are agile and already ahead of the curve. The real question is, can traditional banks really catch up, or is this just too little too late?
Traditional banks have something most FinTech startups lack—trust and a solid customer base. Programs like these are not about catching up; it’s about leveraging strengths and integrating new methods and technologies. There’s still a significant advantage here.
While developing leadership and innovation skills is commendable, I’m curious about the actual impact on the SME sector. How many of these bankers will go back and genuinely help small businesses grow? Or is it all just about bigger profits for the bank?
I wonder how much digital transformation and technology integration is emphasized in this program. In today’s world, that’s where the real game-changer lies. Banking can’t afford to be left behind in the tech race.
Thammasat Business School has a strong reputation for its rigorous academic approach. Pairing with UOB’s practical banking experience could provide a well-rounded experience. The success of their graduates in moving to senior positions speaks volumes.