The UCL Global Business School for Health (GBSH) proudly welcomed its first-ever undergraduate cohort to the new Business and Health BSc/MSci course with a vibrant celebration and an inspiring fireside chat between GBSH Founding Director, Professor Nora Colton and Iñaki Ereño, Group CEO of Bupa.
Held at the Undergraduate Welcome Celebration, the event marked a historic moment for GBSH as students, faculty, and guests gathered to launch the pioneering course designed to shape the next generation of health leaders. The evening offered students a chance to connect with peers, meet faculty, and hear firsthand from one of the most influential voices in global healthcare.
Speaking to a packed room of new students, Iñaki began by acknowledging the significance of the new programme, saying:
“I think the worlds of business and health needed to be together before, but they were not. UCL and this programme are pioneering something that will educate people for an industry that needs new leaders—leaders with business skills, not only with purpose and healthcare skills.”
In his talk, Iñaki shared powerful reflections from his career, including moments that shaped his leadership journey - from tackling hospital bed shortages to launching life-saving initiatives in Morocco, and navigating the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic. He emphasised the importance of purpose-driven leadership, digital transformation, and the urgent need for bravery in healthcare innovation.
Students were encouraged to embrace the magnitude of the challenge ahead and to see themselves as future changemakers in a sector ripe for transformation. Iñaki highlighted four key trends shaping the future of healthcare: preventive medicine, personalisation, participative care, and proactive health management.
He stressed the need for innovation and digital transformation, noting:
“Digitalisation of healthcare is taking longer than other industries because of the sensitivity of health data. But the change that will happen in health through digitalisation will be much bigger than any other industry.”
The event showcases the exceptional opportunities available to GBSH students, including access to global industry leaders, cutting-edge research, and a curriculum that blends business acumen with health expertise. As the only business school in the world solely dedicated to health, GBSH offers a unique platform for students to develop the skills and vision needed to lead in a rapidly evolving sector.
Watch the full video of the Fireside Chat here:
