26 students and four faculty members from Hong Kong Baptist University (HKBU)participated in an intensive program of lectures and company visits. The study trip’s objective was to provide insights into some of Switzerland’s key industries: luxury, banking and finance, pharmaceuticals, and manufacturing. The program of company visits included Roche Pharma in Basel, Bank Julius Baer in Zurich, and Zimmer in Winterthur. 

Michael Farley, Head of International Development & Projects, said: “This is the second time we have been asked by Hong Kong Baptist University to organize a study trip for their MBA students. This year we attracted even more students, and we were delighted that Professor Allan Chan, Associate Dean of the Business School at HKBU, joined the trip.”

A Very Varied Program
One of the highlights was a talk on sustainability given at Roche Pharma by Urs Jaisli, Global Chief Compliance Officer, followed by an interesting presentation of the personalized health care approach of Roche. The students also had the opportunity to visit Switzerland’s highest building, the Roche Tower. Interactive lectures and group workshops by SML faculty members complemented the company visits; topics included Swiss culture, innovation management, luxury goods management, and alternative investments. Although the week was tightly structured, students were also able to explore Zurich on a sightseeing tour and experience at least some of the natural beauty of Switzerland.

We hope the HKBU students have taken with them valuable insights into Swiss business practices, Swiss culture, and Swiss food.