UnionBank has partnered with the business education provider INSEAD to launch the ASCEND Program.

This strategic learning initiative aims to enhance the capabilities of the bank’s Relationship Managers (RMs) across its wealth management, private banking, and retail banking divisions.

UnionBank President and CEO Ana Aboitiz Delgado and Prof. Sameer Hasija, Dean of INSEAD Asia Campus, formalised the multi-year collaboration.

“Today marks the beginning of a meaningful partnership—one that reflects our deep commitment to investing in our people and shaping the future of banking,” said Ana Aboitiz Delgado.

She added that the bank believes excellence in client service begins with excellence in talent.

Prof. Hasija commented on the collaboration. He explained that when an organisation calls its learning provider a “partner,” it shows it truly values learning.

This, he added, demonstrates that the collaborative mindset is deeply ingrained in its culture.

The ASCEND Program aims to provide RMs with global insights and advanced skills. These skills cover key areas such as macroeconomics, market dynamics, behavioural economics, and emerging wealth management trends.

The first phase of the program consisted of a two-day intensive training session conducted by INSEAD faculty.

Future phases will expand the program and integrate digital learning modules covering topics such as digital currencies, tokenisation, and artificial intelligence, ensuring the bank’s advisors remain informed about global financial innovations.

UnionBank stated the initiative is part of its “high tech-high touch” approach, which aims to position its advisors as professionals who can provide meaningful, tailored guidance.

Featured image by Union Bank of the Philippines.