We host University of Oxford’s best and brightest

[TeamSouthAfrica]

Standard Bank prides itself on being a ‘learning organisation’. Through continuous exploration, experimentation and collaboration, we drive growth in Africa, our home. That’s why on April 13, we hosted a presentation at our Innovation Lab in Rosebank, Johannesburg for 45 Oxford students who are currently working through Saïd Business School’s inaugural Growth Prospects & Business Opportunities in Africa module.

The presentation included key insights and information regarding the opportunities and challenges associated with doing business in Africa from Paul Steenkamp, Head of Innovative Capability; Greg Davies, CFO; Lincoln Mali, Head of Group Card and Emerging Payments; and Leon Barnard, Regional Head of Personal and Business Banking, East Africa.

According to the developers of the MBA module, partnering with us was a natural choice, not least of all because we are uniquely positioned to encourage and support growth through our operations in 19 African countries. It is widely believed that Africa presents the next frontier of business opportunities, and we have proved this by successfully expanding into the continent. Furthermore, it’s critical that the future leaders of the business world are exposed to Africa’s complexities first hand.

Besides developing tomorrow’s leaders and innovators, the course also aims to increase the number of African recruits via the Africa link. Though just the first, this current module only includes two African students, but the number is set to grow as it is designed for, and thus relevant to, the continent.

Through the power of partnerships such as these, we believe we can grow Africa’s ecosystem across the globe. Fresh perspectives from bright young minds from all over the world combined with our extensive expertise, resources and passion will see Africa continue to rise.