University degree: Master degree in International Economics
Job: Management Trainee in the finance department
Company: British American Tobacco (BAT) Switzerland
Can you tell us about your career path?
I earned a Bachelor’s degree in Economics and Management at the University of Bolzano in Italy and then a Master’s degree in International Economics at the Graduate Institute. During my studies I held a variety of jobs and worked as an intern at the World Health Organisation and at the European Investment Bank. In October 2007, a few days after the diploma ceremony at the Institute, I started working in my current position at British American Tobacco Switzerland in Lausanne.
Why did you choose to study at the Institute?
The graduate programmes offered by the Institute promised not only to provide students with rigorous training in the discipline of their choice, but also to endow them with a broader understanding of international relations thanks to an interdisciplinary approach. In addition to this, the excellent reputation of the Institute and the cultural diversity of the student body made me confident that I would find a stimulating learning environment in Geneva.
Did you work during your studies?
Throughout my studies I worked occasionally for event agencies, in particular at the Geneva Motor Show. During the second year of the programme I worked as a part-time assistant in the Institute’s Career Services. It was a very rewarding experience to work for the benefit of the Institute and its students while developing useful skills.
What is your position within BAT Switzerland and what are your responsibilities?
I am a Management Trainee in the finance department. Being a Management Trainee at BAT Switzerland means taking part in a challenging 2-year programme that prepares young graduates for their first managerial role within the Group. The programme is composed of several assignments, each lasting a few months. I am given responsibilities on projects and learn from my colleagues by performing day-to-day activities alongside them, with increasing levels of autonomy. At the beginning of each assignment my coach and I agree on performance objectives and we track progress as we go along.
Why did you choose a career in finance?
Because I find it fascinating to understand what drives value creation within a company and how managers use this information to make the right decisions. Moreover, working in finance provides insight into how businesses operate as a whole. I do not know whether I will spend my whole career in finance, but I am convinced it is a great starting point.
What advice would you give to students wishing to pursue a career in this field?
Talk to finance professionals and try to understand what they do in their daily job. Ask them what they like and dislike, and how they expect to progress in their career. Then, answer this question honestly: does it sound right for you? Remember that if you enjoy what you do, there is a good chance you will be good at it. Keep in mind that there are many different kinds of finance jobs out there. If you gain practical experience through internships, this will help you choose a job that suits you in terms of responsibilities, rewards, challenges, mobility, work-life balance, etc.
Did the Institute prepare you well for a career in this field?
Yes. Although I did not receive any technical training in finance during my studies at the Institute, I developed the strong analytical skills that are essential for a career in this field. At BAT Switzerland I have plenty of opportunities to acquire specific financial knowledge through formal training and on-the-job learning. Currently, I am studying for a comprehensive, internationally recognised professional qualification in finance.
What advantages did the Institute give you from an intellectual point of view?
The Institute is one of the few academic institutions in the world that host an open and respectful debate on sensitive current affairs. This debate is fuelled by curiosity rather than by people’s desire to persuade others. Students derive great benefit from this environment because they are encouraged to explore all facets of a subject critically and impartially. Seeing that the Institute offers classes on topics such as working conditions in China or agricultural subsidies makes me feel very proud of being an alumnus.
In your opinion, what qualities are important for a successful career in finance?
If I had to choose three I would say integrity, reliability and attention to detail. Of course it is also important to be a good communicator, in order to be able to relate to a variety of internal and external stakeholders.
