In the third panel, “native” innovation: from internal processes to skill levels

At the third and final roundtable of TalkInn 2019, titled “Native Digital Innovation: Processes, Organisational Structure, and Skill Levels”, speakers included Moreno Ferrario (Sales Manager, LinkedIn Italy), Leopoldo Gasbarro (Editor-in-Chief, Wall Street Italia), and Vincenzo Tortorici (Senior Partner, Boston Consulting Group).

Moreno Ferrario opened his remarks by highlighting how digital transformation is reshaping the profiles demanded in the financial sector:
“With digital evolution, the demand for professionals with specialised skills in finance is increasing. Today, one in two professionals has an active profile on our platform, confirming that the job market is in constant transformation. Innovation is deeply changing the business, and this inevitably affects people: banks and insurance companies need resources with advanced digital skills, capable not only of adapting but also of leading the change.

We often talk about technology and systems—and rightly so—but our analyses clearly show that even CEOs recognise that the real competitive lever, what sets successful companies apart, is people. In the finance sector especially, the focus is increasingly on skills related to data analysis and interpretation: being able to read data, turn it into insights, and then into business value. However, these profiles are still hard to find.”

Vincenzo Tortorici stressed how the role of the financial advisor is also being transformed:
“The advisor remains a central figure, but the technological revolution is directly affecting them. Change is underway and is gradually impacting both resources and consumer behaviour. Still, it's simplistic to say that bank branches are empty—clients continue to seek real interactions with their bank. In this context, cost optimisation becomes a priority. We need to rethink processes, eliminate paperwork, and minimise manual tasks to also reduce operational risks. We are moving towards a more evolved model of consultancy, in which professionals must know how to read data, use technology wisely, and develop tailored solutions. Banks are looking for profiles capable of digitising the customer journey and anticipating client needs—but these skills are still hard to come by.”

Leopoldo Gasbarro emphasised the irreplaceable role of the human factor in banking evolution:
“Technology is essential, but it cannot replace the value of human relationships. It’s unrealistic to think that the role of the banker will remain the same—but equally wrong to imagine it will turn into a purely technical role. A recent study of ours confirms this: clients don’t care about certifications, but about empathy and the ability to explain things simply and clearly.

Financial competence is taken for granted; what truly makes a difference is trust. The change underway is deep, and it must be communicated in an accessible way. That’s why we need to enhance the relational skills of those working on the front lines with people.”