Columbus IB, a member of the global Oaklins network, a leader in M&A with firms on all continents, offers its employees the unique opportunity to participate in international exchanges. This partnership allows Columbus IB members to immerse themselves in diverse professional and cultural environments by joining teams from other Oaklins offices around the world. Oaklins is a global network of boutique investment banks specializing in Mergers and Acquisitions (M&A) and Corporate Finance. These exchanges not only strengthen relationships between firms and their teams but also provide invaluable professional and personal experience for the growth and development of participants.
Salvador Botet, currently an Associate at Columbus IB, had the opportunity to participate in an exchange that transcended the borders of his country and immersed him in a professional and cultural experience in Colombia. This exchange allowed Salvador to join the team at Axia Investment Banking in Bogotá. The selection and preparation process for this exchange involved a series of meetings between the Columbus IB and Axia Investment Banking offices, where the participants' profiles were evaluated, and the exchange objectives were established. For Salvador, the choice of Colombia as a destination was a combination of positive recommendations about the Oaklins firm in the country, a personal desire to learn about Colombian culture, and previous connections he had established with Colombians during earlier experiences.
Once in Colombia, Salvador was assigned to the Fairness Opinion team of one of the most important business groups in the country. His task was to value one of the group's main businesses. This experience not only provided him with the opportunity to deepen his knowledge but also to learn about the working methods in another investment bank, strengthen his networking, and develop coordination and teamwork skills in an international environment.
Salvador's professional experience in Colombia was complemented by an immersion in Colombian culture and society. He highlights the kindness and hospitality of Colombians, as well as the rapid integration he experienced in the Axia team.
In summary, the exchange in Colombia was a highly enriching experience for Salvador, both professionally and personally. It allowed him to expand his horizons, acquire new knowledge, and establish significant connections in an international environment. With gratitude to Columbus IB and Oaklins for this opportunity, Salvador invites his colleagues to participate in future exchanges and explore the countless opportunities that Colombia offers.
"It was a highly interesting and very enriching experience in terms of professional and personal growth, exposure to another culture and customs, learning about work methods at another investment bank, and executing deals abroad."
Salvador Botet
