“In Conversation with Sacombank’s New CEO”

Mr. Nguyen Thanh Nhung affirmed the above in his first interview after assuming the role of Acting CEO of Sacombank.

What was your first thought when you took on the role of Acting CEO of Sacombank, given that the bank has just gone through a restructuring phase?

My initial thought was not focused on financial goals. Instead, I contemplated the question: “If we are still here in ten years, what will be the reason for our existence?”

The 2025-2030 strategy should not merely be a list of targets but a capability roadmap encompassing three anchor points: Sustainable Development, Social Responsibility Integration, and Next-Generation Risk Management. We do not aim to be the largest bank, but we aspire to be the most trusted bank in our customers’ most significant decisions, from savings and investments to entrepreneurship.

As I step into the role of Acting CEO of Sacombank, I am committed to providing clear directions for future governance, not through past slogans, but through a journey of practical dialogue—focusing on intrinsic strength, institutional solidity, and long-term accountability.

Resolution 68 on private economic development considers digital transformation as a “new development approach.” What does this mean for Sacombank?

Digital transformation is not merely about changing software or banking apps. It involves transforming the entire structure of customer belief in the organization. Previously, customers had to trust individuals; now, they need to trust processes, followed by systems, and ultimately, the entire experience. We will not only transform the core technology but also redefine “service”—each customer interaction is an opportunity for the bank to prove that their trust is well-placed.

Digital transformation is not about changing software or banking apps but about transforming the entire structure of customer belief.

Ho Chi Minh City is in the process of establishing an international financial center. As a prominent bank in the system, with its head office in Ho Chi Minh City, what role will Sacombank play in this journey?

Sacombank does not necessarily aim to become a global bank. However, we can aspire to be a “regional trust navigator,” offering banking, payment, custody, and credit services with regional-caliber quality while maintaining our unique identity.

When the international financial center takes shape, there will be numerous flows of capital, data, and trust. The bank that can orchestrate these flows without disrupting its internal structure will contribute to shaping the new order. We aim to move in this direction and have set goals and implemented solutions to swiftly achieve this objective.

Sacombank aims to be a “regional trust navigator” rather than a global bank.

The financial market has witnessed risks related to liquidity, trust, and more. How does Sacombank maintain system safety while ensuring growth?

The market is ever-changing and fraught with risks, but I assure you that Sacombank knows how to navigate these risks without losing direction. We are comprehensively upgrading our internal governance system, not solely based on control but on appropriate responses.

The crucial aspect is not merely identifying risks but sensing their rhythm before they impact the system. We will invest significantly in early data analysis capabilities, build “trust buffers,” and, most importantly, train our people not to be fixated on indices but to uphold principles.

Sacombank has a new “Captain.” Are there any profound organizational changes needed, or is the current structure sufficient?

Restructuring is not about “cutting, patching, and replacing.” It is a process of reinvigorating the organization’s energy—its beliefs, motivations, and soft structure. We begin by redefining the ‘attractor points’ for each functional block—where creativity is needed, where discipline must be strong, and where connections should be fostered.

Subsequently, we reinstate the value system: maintaining our service principles while adopting fresh approaches. Most importantly, I want to inspire every bank officer: not just to be an operator but to shape the financial pulse of the nation.

What message do you have in your new role as the person in charge of Sacombank’s operations?

A bank may not be remembered much for its past achievements, but it will be remembered for its future commitments. I take on this responsibility not to do things differently but to go deeper—deeper into belief, process, and the bank’s responsibility in an economy that is profoundly shaping itself in its ascent.