Connecting executives with China: IBSS hosts fintech immersion experience

22 May 2026

As organisations around the world turn their attention to China and seek to better understand its innovation economy, executive immersion programmes are becoming an increasingly valuable way to build industry insight, international connections and practical business understanding.

At International Business School Suzhou (IBSS), part of Xi’an Jiaotong-Liverpool University (XJTLU), these experiences combine academic expertise with a front-row seat to China’s fast moving business environment.

A recent visit by senior executives from Indonesian FinTech company PT BIMASAKTI MULTI SINERGI offered a strong example of how IBSS designs and delivers cutting-edge immersion programmes focused on real-world business challenges and opportunities.

At IBSS #WeConnect business leaders with China

Last week, a delegation of 18 executives, organised by Petra Christian University in Indonesia, visited the Suzhou Fintech Innovation Centre as part of an IBSS-facilitated executive immersion programme exploring digital finance, artificial intelligence (AI) and cross-border innovation.

Led by Dr Jia Zhai, Senior Associate Professor of Finance at IBSS, the programme brought together representatives from the Suzhou Fintech Association and Suzhou Xinjian Yuanhe Rong Technology Co., Ltd. for discussions around fintech development, AI applications and industrial financial services.

Rather than focusing only on theory, delegates experienced first-hand how emerging technologies are being applied across China’s financial sector. This practical, industry-connected approach reflects IBSS’s wider philosophy towards executive education that is applied, relevant and professional.

Exploring Suzhou’s innovation ecosystem

During the visit, our friends from Indonesia toured the Suzhou Fintech Innovation Centre, which welcomes more than 200 delegations and over 4,000 visitors annually.

Participants explored how technologies including big data, cloud computing and AI are reshaping financial services in China, while also learning about digital finance platforms and data governance models supporting innovation in the sector.

The programme also highlighted Suzhou’s wider strengths as a hub for advanced industry and innovation. Located just 25 minutes from Shanghai, the city is home to thousands of international companies and more than 180 Fortune 500 enterprises.

IBSS’ executive immersion programmes

The visit forms part of IBSS’s wider portfolio of custom executive education and immersion programmes for students, professionals and entrepreneurs worldwide.

As one of an elite group of Triple Crown-accredited business schools worldwide, IBSS combines British-style international business education with strong local expertise and industry connections in China; serving as a bridge between China and the world.

Programmes can be tailored around themes including innovation, AI, leadership, supply chain, ESG and digital transformation, with options for company visits, expert-led workshops, networking events and cultural experiences across Suzhou, Shanghai and beyond.

Reflecting on the visit, Ibun Sunanto, CEO of PT BIMASAKTI MULTI SINERGI, said:

“We greatly appreciate Xi’an Jiaotong-Liverpool University and the Suzhou Fintech Association for organising this valuable exchange, which has provided us with an excellent opportunity for learning and networking.”

Find out more

IBSS works with organisations around the world on executive education, customised immersion programmes and professional training initiatives designed around specific individual needs and organisational goals.

To find out more about partnership opportunities and personalised immersion programmes in China, visit our internationalisation webpage, or get in touch at: IBSS.International@xjtlu.edu.cn.

By Linlin Xie

Edited by Thomas Durham

22 May 2026

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Connecting executives with China: IBSS hosts fintech immersion experience