Ruth Porat Discusses Innovation and Leadership at Citi's Legends Live

On July 9, 2025, Citi hosted Ruth Porat, President and Chief Investment Officer of Alphabet and Google, as part of its global speaker series, Legends Live @Citi. This event, moderated by Leon Kalvaria, Citi's Vice Chair of Client and Banking, provided an insightful platform for Porat to share her experiences and perspectives on leadership, innovation, and the evolving role of technology in business.

Citi, a global banking institution serving over 200 million customer accounts in more than 160 countries, emphasized the significance of this session in fostering dialogue on key industry trends and insights. Porat, renowned for her leadership at Alphabet and Google, is recognized by Forbes and Fortune as one of the most powerful women in the world due to her impactful contributions in corporate investments, philanthropy, and infrastructure management.

During the session, Porat highlighted the pivotal role of data in driving decision-making processes. She stated, "In today’s fast-paced environment, leveraging data effectively is essential for innovation and competitive advantage." This assertion aligns with findings from a 2023 report by the World Economic Forum, which underscored the growing importance of data analytics in enhancing business performance across sectors.

Porat also discussed the necessity of risk-taking in fostering innovation. She cited her experience overseeing Alphabet's 'Other Bets' portfolio, which includes ventures into diverse fields such as autonomous vehicles and health technology. According to her, "Embracing uncertainty is crucial for development; it allows companies to explore new avenues and adapt to changing market dynamics."

Leon Kalvaria, who has extensive experience in investment banking and corporate strategy, provided context to the conversation by reflecting on the challenges faced by executives in navigating today's complex economic landscape. Kalvaria's background, including roles at Citigroup and Schroders, informs his understanding of the financial sector's evolution and the imperative for companies to adopt innovative strategies.

The discussion also touched on the importance of continuous learning within organizations. Porat advocated for a culture that encourages skill development and adaptability, stating, "The workforce of the future must be equipped with the tools to navigate change effectively." This sentiment echoes research from Stanford University, which revealed that companies investing in employee development see improved retention rates and higher productivity.

Porat's influence extends beyond corporate strategy; she actively engages with policymakers and regulators to address issues related to economic growth and job creation. This engagement is vital as technological advancements reshape the workforce, presenting both opportunities and challenges.

As the session concluded, attendees were left with a deeper understanding of the interplay between technology and leadership in driving business success. Porat’s insights serve as a reminder of the need for forward-thinking approaches in an increasingly competitive and data-driven world.

The Legends Live @Citi series aims to connect industry leaders with a broader audience, fostering discussions that inspire innovation and collaboration across sectors. Upcoming sessions will continue to feature prominent figures in business, providing valuable insights into the future of various industries.

In summary, Ruth Porat's participation in the Legends Live @Citi series not only showcased her leadership journey but also highlighted critical themes relevant to today's business landscape, including data utilization, risk management, and the importance of continuous learning in the face of rapid technological change.