UBS CEO: Surprise comeback, Credit Suisse, and winning
Mar 6, 2024
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Sergio Ermotti, the returning CEO of UBS, shares insights from his pivotal role during UBS’s historic acquisition of Credit Suisse. He reveals the challenges he faced as new CEO and discusses why Credit Suisse stumbled. The conversation dives into the evolution of Swiss banking, contrasting the dynamics of US and European banks, and highlights the importance of corporate culture. With anecdotes reflecting his football background, Ermotti emphasizes teamwork's role in achieving success and the significance of nurturing leadership talent.
Historical acquisition of Credit Suisse by UBS showcased strategic decision-making and market stabilization efforts.
Cultivating a strong leadership team and corporate culture is vital for success in dynamic environments.
Deep dives
Transition from Football to Banking
Starting off as a talented football player dreaming of a professional career, Sergio Emote transitioned into banking as a plan B due to realizing his limited potential in football. He began his banking journey by becoming a trader for convertible bonds and options, which led to a defining moment in his career when he was offered to build up a Swiss-firing capital market operation from scratch in 1987. This experience taught him valuable lessons on management, business building, and leadership that are still applicable today.
UBS Acquisition of Credit Swiss
Reflecting on the historic acquisition of Credit Swiss by UBS in March 2023, Sergio Emote reveals insights into the challenges and turbulence leading up to this significant event. Recognizing Credit Swiss's unsustainable business model and delayed radical decisions, the acquisition aimed to stabilize the market and prevent a Lehman-like crisis. The strategic move highlighted the importance of swift action, regulatory environment considerations, and maintaining financial stability.
Leadership and People Management
As a leader, Sergio Emote emphasizes the importance of developing a strong leadership team and cultivating a cohesive corporate culture. He navigates complex leadership decisions, stressing the significance of people management and organizational dynamics in driving success. By fostering an environment of teamwork, accountability, and professionalism, he aims to create a diverse and resilient workforce capable of adapting to challenges.
Personal Balance and Advice to Young Professionals
In coping with stress and maintaining work-life balance, Sergio Emote prioritizes family time, outdoor activities, and switching off during weekends to recharge. Advising young professionals, he underscores the value of passion, flexibility, and continuous personal development in career pursuits. Emphasizing self-investment and embracing challenges outside one's comfort zone, he encourages proactive learning, adaptability, and a resilient mindset for long-term career growth and success.
Sergio Ermotti's returned as CEO with the bank's historical acquisition of their main rival Credit Suisse, a landmark event in global finance. Sergio shares why he wanted to come back to UBS, his biggest challenges as new CEO, and why Credit Suisse failed.
The production team on this episode were PLAN-B's Pål Huuse and Niklas Figenschau Johansen. Background research was done by Sigurd Brekke, with input from portfolio manager Philip Pearce, and Mikael Modum Bilet.