OLD Mutual group chief executive, Samuel Matsekete says rapid technological advancements are transforming the way humanity lives and conduct business, and flagged an increased need to integrate with human centric values and a strong conscience for sustainability.
He was speaking at Africa University’s career fair held recently.
Matsekete’s presentation, titled Financial Leadership in a Technologically Advanced Economy: Navigating Change and Driving Business Sustainability, captivated attendees and sparked thought-provoking discussions.
In his address, Matsekete emphasised that humanity was at the threshold of the Fifth Industrial Revolution, where rapid technological advancements are transforming the way we live and conduct business, with an increased need to integrate with human centric values and a strong conscience for sustainability.
Despite these changes, he noted that fundamental principles of finance remain unchanged.
The focus, he explained, is still on maximising returns while minimising risks, with financial wellness remaining at the core of personal and organisational goals.
“It’s not just about accumulating wealth; it’s about managing resources effectively to achieve peace of mind and long-term stability,” Matsekete stated.
His remarks resonated with students, many of whom are eager to understand the evolving nature of financial leadership in today’s fast-paced world.
- Meikles Empire: An heir emerges
- Vungu Dam water treatment and irrigation project takes off
- Vungu Dam water treatment and irrigation project takes off
- Top guns sign off with $2,4 billion windfall..Dairibord, POSB shareholders pampered
Keep Reading
Drawing from his extensive experience in the financial services sector, Matsekete spoke about how the industry is continuously evolving.
“Financial leadership today goes beyond managing assets. It’s about harnessing technology to create innovative solutions that meet the needs of a rapidly changing world,” he emphasised.
“As we move forward, the synergy between technology and humanity is critical. Solutions must be designed with the human experience in mind to ensure that financial services remain relevant and accessible in an increasingly digital landscape.”
His message struck a chord with students, particularly those interested in the future of finance and technology.
The focus on innovation and adaptability in the finance sector reinforced the importance of staying ahead of the curve in an era marked by technological disruption.
Matsekete also highlighted Old Mutual’s commitment to empowering young professionals and fostering innovation within Zimbabwe’s economy through initiatives like the Eight2Five Innovation Hub.
This corporate incubation hub is dedicated to supporting entrepreneurs, startups, and creatives by providing a collaborative co-working space, mentorship, and valuable networking opportunities.
Through participation in events like the Africa University career fair, Old Mutual aims to inspire Zimbabwean youth to pursue careers that not only advance their personal ambitions but also contribute to the broader community and economy, whilst also upholding the right values.
Matsekete underscored the importance of equipping the next generation with the skills needed to thrive in an increasingly digital world.
“The demand for diverse expertise is growing, with professionals from various backgrounds playing an essential role in enhancing problem-solving and driving innovation within the financial services sector,” he remarked.
As the finance industry continues to evolve, so too must the skill sets of its professionals.
Today’s financial experts must be tech-savvy and data-driven to make informed decisions that drive business success.
He also highlighted how the financial services sector needs a much broader range of skills that used to be the case, because of the need to adapt faster and continue to connect effectively with fast evolving needs and demographics of society.
A key takeaway from Matsekete’s address was the growing importance of sustainability in business practices.
He urged organisations to integrate ethical considerations and social responsibility into their operations.
“Sustainability must be at the heart of our business practices. We need to ensure that financial projects are evaluated with a long-term perspective, considering the impacts of climate change and other global trends,” he stated.
The Old Mutual Group CEO also shared his vision for the future, which places a significant focus on aligning financial practices with environmental and social considerations.
Financial institutions are increasingly tasked with evaluating the long-term viability of ventures and projects in light of global challenges such as climate change.
The response from students was overwhelmingly positive.
Many expressed gratitude for the opportunity to hear directly from leaders like Matsekete, with many noting that the insights shared during his lecture would greatly influence their future career choices.
The engaging presentation helped students understand how they can contribute to shaping a more sustainable and technologically advanced future.
As Old Mutual continues to lead in the financial services sector, the company’s commitment to shaping a sustainable future remains unwavering.
Through initiatives like the Eight2Five Innovation Hub and active participation in career fairs, Old Mutual is playing a crucial role in empowering the next generation of professionals to thrive in an ever-changing world.
The Africa University Career Fair proved to be a resounding success, not only for its insightful presentations but also for its ability to inspire students to think critically about their future roles in a rapidly evolving world.
With the right combination of technological expertise, financial leadership, and a commitment to sustainability, these students are well-positioned to become the leaders of tomorrow.
