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Old Mutual Zimbabwe group chief executive officer, Sam Matsekete, says rapid technological advancements are transforming the way humanity lives and conducts business, but urged an integration with human-centric values and a strong conscience for sustainability.
Speaking at the Africa University Career Fair in Mutare recently, Matsekete said we were on the threshold of the Fifth Industrial Revolution, but despite the evolving nature of financial leadership in today’s fast-paced world, the fundamental principles of finance remain unchanged, with the focus is still on maximizing returns while minimizing risks, and financial wellness remaining at the core of personal and organizational goals.
“It’s not just about accumulating wealth; it’s about managing resources effectively to achieve peace of mind and long-term stability,” Matsekete said in his presentation entitled: “Financial Leadership in a Technologically Advanced Economy: Navigating Change and Driving Business Sustainability.
Drawing from his extensive experience in the financial services sector, Matsekete said the industry was 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. 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,” he said.
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.
By participating in events like the Africa University career fair, Old Mutual aims to inspire Zimbabwean youth to pursue careers that not only advance their ambitions but also contribute to the broader community and economy, whilst also upholding the right values, he said.
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 than used to be the case, because of the need to adapt faster and continue to connect effectively with the fast-evolving needs and demographics of society.
He also highlighted the growing importance of sustainability in business practices and urged organizations 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 said.
His vision for the future 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.
Old Mutual continues to lead in the financial services sector, with the company’s commitment to shaping a sustainable future. 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.
Other presenters at the fair included Professor Rudo Makunike Mutasa, Professor Dr. Obert Jiri, Reverend Prof. Peter Mageto, and Dr. Elizabeth Rutsate.
