The Romero Dynasty Reimagined: From Peruvian Conglomerate to US-Based University
Nearly $200 million is being redirected from traditional banking to a bold new venture: education. Dionisio Romero Paoletti, the recently retired head of Peruvian conglomerate Credicorp, is launching Dionisio Romero University (DRU) in the United States, signaling a significant shift in the family’s investment strategy and a growing trend of established business leaders directly addressing perceived gaps in higher education.
A Generational Transition and a New Vision
The end of 2025 marked the culmination of a carefully planned succession at the Romero Group. After 25 years at the helm, Dionisio Romero Paoletti passed the presidency to Manuel Romero Valdez, a fifth-generation family member. This transition, however, wasn’t simply a changing of the guard; it coincided with Romero Paoletti’s ambitious foray into the US education market. The move reflects a broader pattern of family-owned businesses proactively preparing for leadership changes and diversifying into new sectors.
DRU: A University Designed for a Globalized World
Dionisio Romero University, conceived as “an institution born in the United States and designed for the world,” aims to disrupt traditional university models. Led by CEO Luciano Velazco, formerly of San Ignacio University, DRU will offer a flexible, bilingual (English or Spanish) learning experience with a strong emphasis on practical application and connections to the business world. The university’s structure allows for remote learning and the awarding of US degrees, potentially attracting a diverse international student body.
The Rise of Entrepreneurial Universities
Romero Paoletti’s investment isn’t an isolated incident. We’re seeing a growing number of successful entrepreneurs and business leaders investing directly in higher education, often driven by dissatisfaction with existing systems. These ventures frequently prioritize skills-based learning, industry relevance and innovative delivery methods. This trend suggests a potential reshaping of the university landscape, with a greater focus on preparing students for the demands of a rapidly evolving job market.
Credicorp’s Diversification and the Peruvian Economy
The $180 million acquisition of Helm Bank USA by Credicorp in late 2025 underscored the conglomerate’s commitment to serving Latin American clients. However, the simultaneous launch of DRU indicates a broader diversification strategy. Credicorp, with its roots in banking and investments in sectors like packaged foods (Alicorp), insurance, and infrastructure (Matarani copper port), is positioning itself for long-term growth by expanding into the education sector. This diversification could be a response to evolving economic conditions in Peru and a desire to capitalize on global opportunities.
Implications for Latin American Education
DRU’s bilingual approach and focus on global relevance could have significant implications for education in Latin America. By offering US degrees and fostering connections with the US business environment, the university could provide a pathway for Latin American students to access international opportunities. This could contribute to a brain gain for the region, as graduates return with valuable skills, and experience.
The Romero family’s move represents more than just a business transaction; it’s a statement about the future of education and the role of entrepreneurship in shaping it. As established business leaders increasingly turn their attention to higher education, People can expect to see further innovation and disruption in the years to come. What impact will this new model have on traditional universities? Only time will tell.
Explore more insights on global education trends in our Archyde.com analysis.
