Shaping the talent for tomorrow is a team sport

In a world where change is accelerating, the future doesn’t arrive fully formed – it’s built through the choices we make today.

“We’re here to help build a resilient Queensland economy that supports future-focused jobs for generations to come.” – Bruce Rush

And while we can’t predict exactly what’s ahead of us, one thing is sure: we need people with the skills, mindset, and adaptability to bridge the gap between the world we live in now and the one we’re heading toward.

Rising star

ANZ recently announced partnerships with The University of Queensland and Griffith University, two leading institutions in Australia’s rising northern star, Queensland.

Forming partnerships with universities in Queensland was one of ANZ’s commitments as part of its deal to acquire Suncorp Bank.

It’s also central to delivering on another major promise – establishing a Hub in Brisbane where ANZ will place over 700 specialists in high-demand jobs over the next five years.

But perhaps most critical of all, these partnerships are a key strategic investment in research, innovation and talent development.

They are essential to building the pipeline of future-ready professionals who will deliver the products and services to support the evolving needs of our customers, communities and industries.

Poised for transformation

So why Queensland?

As a Queenslander, I’m the first to admit a personal bias. Without doubt, it’s the same things I love so much about Queensland that have also drawn others north, contributing in part to the state’s strong growth.

With positive demographic trends, a foundation in natural resources, tourism and agriculture, and the 2032 Olympics on the horizon, Queensland is poised for a transformative decade.

ANZ saw this potential clearly when assessing its acquisition of Suncorp Bank.

But the commitments made to Queensland go well beyond the deal and government promises, to the core of our purpose – to shape a world where people and communities thrive.

We’re here to help build a resilient Queensland economy that supports future-focused jobs for generations to come.

Challenge and opportunity

Research commissioned by ANZ in 2023 revealed a gap.

While the Sunshine State is home to 19 per cent of Australia’s IT students, it accounts for just 13 per cent of the national tech workforce.

Set against the backdrop of Queensland’s strong economic outlook, this gap represents both challenge and opportunity – how to tap into that deep pool of talent and also create the conditions that encourage them to stay.

That’s where university partnerships come in.

For large organisations, collaborating with institutions in higher education is no longer a nice-to-have — it’s a strategic imperative.

In critical areas like cybersecurity, AI, AgriTech and sustainable finance, we need fresh thinking, rapid experimentation, and multidisciplinary collaboration.

Banks: a changing sector

These partnerships also reflect the changing nature of banking itself.

Once defined by bricks, mortar, and paper-based processes, banking today is a digital, data-driven industry that relies on advanced technologies and agile thinking.

We’re no longer just managing money – we’re protecting customers from cyber threats, enabling sustainable investment, and supporting businesses through transition to a low-carbon economy.

The workforce of today requires a very different skillset than the one of the past.

By working closely with universities, we can help shape the next generation of talent to meet these evolving needs. Students gain exposure to real-world challenges and access to practical experience and career pathways. In turn, we gain early access to emerging talent and ideas that can shape the future of our business.

It’s not simply about filling roles — it’s about building capability. By engaging with universities, we help ensure students are prepared for what’s ahead and that our industry evolves alongside.

Ahead of the curve

Investing in skills development through university partnerships is good for students, good for business and good for the broader economy.

It helps organisations stay ahead of the curve, attract top talent, and contribute meaningfully to the communities in which they operate.

It also sends a powerful signal that you’re committed to long-term growth, not just short-term gains.

Through collaboration with universities, we’re supporting valuable research and creating meaningful opportunities that help retain local talent and contribute to a vibrant thriving economy– a win for Queensland, a win for students and a win for our customers and communities.

Bruce Rush is Chief Executive Officer, Suncorp Bank and Managing Director QLD, ANZ.