Santander, Fundación Universia and IE University Launch International Leadership Program for Professionals with Disabilities
The initiative brings together participants from Spain and six Latin American countries, each with 5 to 10 years of professional experience, for a fully funded training program.
Madrid, April 20, 2026 – Banco Santander and Fundación Universia, in collaboration with IE Foundation at IE University, have launched an international leadership program—"Santander Leaders for Global Inclusion"—which will train 25 professionals with disabilities from seven Ibero-American countries in Madrid, with all expenses covered. The initiative aims to foster a new generation of inclusive leaders in the business world.
Although workplace inclusion for people with disabilities has made progress in recent years, there remains a significant underrepresentation in leadership positions. In Spain, for example, only 1.4% of professionals in positions of responsibility are people with disabilities, according to data from the National Statistics Institute (INE). This context highlights the need to promote initiatives focused on the development and visibility of inclusive leadership.
The program is aligned with Fundación Universia’s ongoing work to promote talent with disabilities in the labor market. A second edition has already been announced and will be available on www.santanderopenacademy.com in the last quarter of 2026 for those interested in applying. Eligible candidates include university-educated professionals with 5 to 10 years of experience from Spain, Chile, Mexico, Argentina, and other Latin American countries.
Beatriz Arribas, Director of Fundación Universia, explains that the foundation "has spent more than two decades promoting the inclusion of talent with disabilities, and with this program we are taking a decisive step to boost the leadership of professionals who have great potential to generate real impact in their organizations and in society."
Geoffroy Gérard, General Director of IE Foundation, highlights: "At IE Foundation, we firmly believe in the power of collaboration to generate real and lasting impact in society. This initiative, together with Fundación Universia and Banco Santander, is a clear example of how, by combining capabilities and vision, we can move toward a common goal: fostering the development of a new generation of leaders who are more inclusive, diverse, and committed."
Leadership Training in an International Environment
The Santander Leaders for Global Inclusion program offers an intensive five-day training course within one of the most innovative educational ecosystems, combining content on leadership, sustainability, innovation, and inclusion. Sessions will be delivered by faculty from IE and will be complemented by collaborative dynamics and international networking activities.
Accessibility and Comprehensive Support
To ensure equal opportunities, the program will cover transportation, accommodation, and meals, as well as the necessary support to guarantee accessibility, including personal assistance where required.