Susana de la Puente: ‘Women bring unique perspectives to business, which are essential for driving innovation and excellence in businesses’

In the dynamic landscape of business and entrepreneurship, women have been steadily breaking barriers and reshaping industries across the globe. Their contributions, once overshadowed by traditional norms and gender biases, are now gaining recognition for their immense value and transformative impact. One prominent figure at the forefront of this movement is Susana de la Puente Wiese, whose journey embodies the resilience and determination of women in the business world.

Susana de la Puente, a renowned investment banking expert, sets an example for women by entering male-dominated sectors like finance back in the late ‘80s. De la Puente has been a trailblazer in shaping financial landscapes across Latin America. As Senior Banker and Director at JP Morgan, she was instrumental in significant financial transactions in the region, including major privatizations and strategic mergers and acquisitions since the 1990s. Her strategic decision-making skills propelled her to become Vice Chairman for Latin America Investment Banking, inspiring women to pursue leadership positions in finance and across all sectors.

She has also received numerous acknowledgements that continue to highlight her exceptional contributions to the field of finance and her pioneering role as a female leader. In 1999, de la Puente was named one of the “50 leaders for the New Millennium” by Time Magazine in the United States. Additionally, she has been considered by Euromoney and Global Finance magazines as one of the “Top Women in Finance.” Poder Magazine and The Economist bestowed upon her the title of “Best Investment Banker for Latin America,” while América Economía honoured her as “One of the 10 Most Powerful Women in Latin America.”

In the later years, Susana de la Puente has switched her focus from finance to businesses in the “new economy”, driven by technology and innovation. Recently, she has ventured into the dynamic world of tech startups, with a particular focus on EdTech and Fintech. Her transition into this burgeoning sector underscores the adaptability and innovation that characterize successful entrepreneurs, regardless of gender.

When asked about her journey and the evolving role of women in business and entrepreneurship, Susana de la Puente emphasizes the importance of breaking down barriers, fostering inclusivity, promoting different views, and thinking out of the box. She notes, “Women bring unique perspectives and insights to the table, which are essential for driving innovation and excellence in today’s changing and competitive landscape.”

Indeed, the contributions of women in business and entrepreneurship are multifaceted and far-reaching. Beyond the realm of finance, women are making significant strides in various industries, from technology and healthcare to education and beyond. More and more, women are achieving senior positions in companies and entering the board of directors of the corporate world which used to be exclusively for men in the past. Women’s ability to adapt, collaborate, and innovate has been instrumental in driving positive change and pushing the boundaries of what is possible.

In the traditionally male-dominated business world, Susana de la Puente’s presence serves as both an inspiration and a testament to the changing dynamics of traditional business and in particular in new ventures of entrepreneurship. Her unwavering commitment to exploring new frontiers and embracing emerging technologies underscores the limitless potential that exists when diversity and inclusion are embraced. As the landscape of business continues to evolve, it is imperative to recognize and celebrate the achievements of women like Susana de la Puente and so many others around the world who have paved the way for future generations. Their stories serve as a reminder of the power of perseverance, resilience, and unwavering determination.

In a world where gender parity remains an ongoing challenge, empowering women to pursue their ambitions and realize their full potential is not just a moral imperative but also a strategic imperative for driving sustainable economic growth and prosperity. The role of women in business and entrepreneurship is thus, not just about breaking glass ceilings; but about “redefining success, challenging stereotypes, and paving the way for future generations of entrepreneurs,” de la Puente reassures.

Susana de la Puente’s journey exemplifies the transformative impact that women can have when given the opportunity to thrive and succeed on their own terms. As we celebrate the achievements of women like her, we also need to reaffirm our commitment to creating a more inclusive and equitable future where every individual, regardless of gender, has the opportunity to thrive in businesses.