Alliant International University
School of Management
San Diego, California, United States
+1 866-825-5426
Visit School Website -
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MBA, Full Time
San Diego, California, United States
+1 858-635-4694
[email protected]
MBA INTERVIEW WITH VICTOR BALLI: "DON'T GO BY THE
TITLE"
Victor Balli (53), CFO at Barry Callebaut, decided to
pursue further economic training after studying chemical
engineering. He did his MBA at the University of St.
Gallen.
Firemen, locomotive drivers or doctors are
the dream jobs of many children: What did you want to be
when you were young?
I wanted to be a pianist, but realized relatively
early on that my talent was unfortunately far from
sufficient.
Which decision did you make the most for your
career?
Around 15 years ago, I decided to work closely with
Andreas Jacobs and the companies in the Jacobs
family. Focusing on one person brings opportunities, but
also harbors risks. But for me, the collaboration has
been very fruitful and enriching over the years.
Why did you choose an MBA?
During my studies as a chemical engineer at the Swiss
Federal Institute of Technology in Zurich, I was
interested in economic and financial relationships. It
was therefore a logical decision to opt for further
economic training instead of a doctorate, as most of my
colleagues did.
Have there been moments when you have had
doubts about this decision?
No.
How do you deal with setbacks?
You also have to accept setbacks and sometimes be
patient to get ahead. I mistrust people who only speak
of their, often short-term, success.
The MBA is one of the most expensive training
courses. Did this investment pay off?
A good education is always a valuable
investment. However, whether it pays off depends largely
on your personality and what you do with it. And
learning does not end when you graduate.
What have you learned from your MBA for life
and not for your job?
You always learn for both your job and life. I can
still explain to my children from time to time topics
that I never need in everyday business.
A n what role models do you orientate
yourself to?
I admire entrepreneurs, although or maybe because I'm
probably not a born entrepreneur myself.
When do you advise academics to get an MBA?
You shouldn't go by the title, but choose an
education that interests, inspires and challenges
you. The combination of (natural) scientific education
with an MBA is still an excellent professional basis in
my opinion.
