Fernando Teles
Fernando Jorge
Fernando Teixeira dos Santos
President of the Executive Board of EuroBic
Fernando Teixeira dos Santos was born in Maia and his rich educational background includes a PhD in Economics from the University of South Carolina, USA. His professional background is even richer, and the fact that he was Minister of Finance was the position that put him more in the public eye and, he reveals, gave him skills and tools for his position today at EuroBic: President of the Executive Committee. Teixeira dos Santos talks to us about strategies, goals and, among other subjects, the importance of technological development in the banking sector.
Has your vast CV, and in particular being Minister of Finance, proved an asset to your current position at EuroBic?
Without a doubt. Holding a governmental position requires leadership, communication and strategic vision. These are also key attributes in the banking sector. In addition to this, having been in the specific area of finance, has enabled close contact and monitoring of the sector’s activity.
Is the process of transition of the bank’s name in Portugal now complete?
In EuroBic’s opinion, the change of brand has been concluded and the legal determinations that have forced this change have been satisfied. We currently have a new, unmistakable brand. A brand that preserves the origin and history of the bank and affirms it as a bank that has the ambition to stand out in the Portuguese and European arena, and in its relationship with other continents.
«We want to be a retail bank with a strong stake in the Private Individual and Small and Medium Enterprises segments»
Is technology and digital transformation important for the development of the bank?
Technological development has long had a huge impact on banking activity. No bank would survive if it does not overcome the challenges posed by digital transformation. That is why it is a strategic priority for EuroBic, to which we have devoted significant human and financial resources. However, I would remind you that banks’ relationship with their customers must always be based on trust and there will always be a time when eye contact will be necessary.
What is the focus of EuroBic's business strategy?
The main focus of the bank is to grow, to grow in size in the national market through the increase of its turnover. Banking inevitably involves risks and therefore good risk identification, assessment and mitigation system must be ensured so as to never compromise the interests of the people who entrust their resources to the bank. We want to be a retail bank with a strong stake in the Private Individual and Small and Medium Enterprises segments, including so-called Small Businesses.
How does EuroBic intend to double its market share, one of its main goals?
As part of the defined strategy, we define product and service packages adjusted to different segments of our clientele, private individuals or companies. A unique and distinctive product range under competitive conditions. We want to be able to be with our customers in the important moments of their life or their business.
