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Interviews with Industry Leaders & Academic Experts
Our interviewees will help you discover what it is like to work with various companies and universities in Switzerland and abroad. You will also learn about persuasive and effective oral and written communication.
Whether you are a junior professional looking for career inspiration or simply curious about the latest work and research in economics, communications, international relations, education, and related fields, in the section below you will find valuable insights and motivation to explore new research, ideas, and career opportunities.
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The Story Behind Avenir Suisse: Diego Taboada on How Ideas Become Policy
What does it take to turn ideas into policy in a country where every reform must survive direct democracy, four languages, and the patience to wait for the right political moment? Interview with Diego Taboada, Director for French-speaking Switzerland and Senior Fellow at Avenir Suisse, a Swiss think tank, on how evidence-based ideas and analysis inform and help shape Swiss public policy.
By Sorina Matthey de l'Endroit, PhD
Persuasive Discourse | Interview | Issue #60
Sorina I. Crisan-Matthey de l'Endroit, PhD
Aug 2118 min read
The Story Behind Citrix Secure Developer Spaces: Dr. Laurent Balmelli on How Secure Developer Platforms Get Built, Swiss Innovation & the Start-Up Mindset
What does it take to build secure developer platforms in a world defined by cloud computing, speed, and constant technological acceleration? In this interview, Dr. Laurent Balmelli—General Manager of Citrix Secure Developer Spaces—reflects on a career that spans cutting-edge research, global corporate leadership, and entrepreneurship. Trained at the height of the telecommunications boom and shaped by the intellectual cultures of Bell Labs and IBM Research in New York and Toky
Sorina I. Crisan-Matthey de l'Endroit, PhD
Jan 2621 min read
The Story Behind H. Moser & Cie.: Edouard Meylan on Swiss watchmaking, managing a luxury brand & working with family
What does it take to lead an independent Swiss watch brand while preserving heritage, fostering innovation, and navigating a competitive luxury market? In this insightful conversation with Edouard Meylan, CEO and co-owner of H. Moser & Cie., we delve into the world of high-end watchmaking, family business dynamics, and the challenges of running a truly independent manufacturer. Meylan, known for his sharp vision and unconventional approach, has played a pivotal role in transf
Sorina I. Crisan-Matthey de l'Endroit, PhD
Mar 27, 202522 min read
Etiquette for the Modern World: William Hanson on building a better future through respect & writing 'Just Good Manners'
What does it take to persuade people to embrace etiquette in their daily lives? In this insightful conversation with William Hanson, a distinguished etiquette expert, author, and Executive Director of The English Manner, we explore the dynamic intersection of respect, modern manners, and persuasion. Hanson, renowned for his ability to bring etiquette into the 21st century, has mastered the art of making civility approachable and relevant in today’s fast-paced world. As Hanson
Sorina I. Crisan-Matthey de l'Endroit, PhD
Feb 3, 202514 min read
The Story Behind Smood: Nicolas de Raemy on sustainability & fair work practices in the Swiss delivery industry
What is it like to work in the Swiss delivery industry while championing sustainability and ethical practices? In this interview, Nicolas de Raemy, Deputy CEO of Smood, reflects on his career milestones and describes how the company is redefining itself as the “Swiss Army knife” of instant delivery. He also highlights Smood’s unique commitment to fair employment practices in an industry largely dominated by the gig economy. De Raemy underscores the importance of aligning busi
Sorina I. Crisan-Matthey de l'Endroit, PhD
Dec 15, 202412 min read
How an International Peacebuilding Organization Works: Itonde Kakoma on Interpeace’s Role in Conflict Resolution & 30 Years of Global Impact
What is it like to lead an organization dedicated to peacebuilding in some of the world’s most conflict-ridden environments? In this insightful interview, Itonde Kakoma, President and CEO of Interpeace, reflects on his professional journey and shares his experiences guiding an organization committed to sustainable peacebuilding. With a focus on local ownership and collaboration, Interpeace has spent decades working in conflict-affected regions to support communities in creati
Sorina I. Crisan-Matthey de l'Endroit, PhD
Nov 25, 20249 min read
How a Peace Think Tank Works: Bridging Academia, Policy & Practice with Dr. Adam Lupel, VP & COO of the International Peace Institute
What is it like to build a career that bridges the gap between the theoretical world of academia and the solution-driven field of policy? In this insightful interview, Dr. Adam Lupel, Vice President and Chief Operating Officer of the International Peace Institute (IPI) in New York City, reflects on his 18-year journey at IPI, his transition from academia to policy work, and the critical role of persuasion in today’s polarized global environment. As he explains, “IPI is a peac
Sorina I. Crisan-Matthey de l'Endroit, PhD
Oct 10, 202412 min read
How to Manage Harvard Kennedy School: Prof. Joseph S. Nye Jr. Reflects on His Marriage, Overall Career & Writing Craft
What is it like to have a career that spans both academia and government? In this captivating interview with Joseph S. Nye, Jr., a distinguished scholar and former U.S. government official, we explore the multifaceted life of a man who has profoundly influenced the field of international relations. Nye, a University Distinguished Service Professor Emeritus and former Dean of Harvard’s Kennedy School of Government, is renowned for creating the concept of 'soft power,' a corner
Sorina I. Crisan-Matthey de l'Endroit, PhD
Aug 29, 202418 min read
Women in Media: Caroline Vuillemin on Creating Reliable News in Conflict Zones & Running Fondation Hirondelle
What is it like to effectively lead an NGO focused on helping to create unbiased media in some of the world's most challenging conflict zones? In this insightful interview, Caroline Vuillemin, the General Director of Fondation Hirondelle – Media for Peace & Human Dignity, based in Switzerland, shares her experiences managing a Swiss NGO that creates and supports media to enable people in conflict zones to access accurate and objective information. Vuillemin delves into her im
Sorina I. Crisan-Matthey de l'Endroit, PhD
Jul 15, 202415 min read
The Story Behind Beekee: Dr. Sergio Estupiñán talks about co-founding a startup & making education available for all
What does it look like to revolutionize education technology and empower learners globally? In this illuminating discussion with Sergio Estupiñán, Ph.D., co-founder of Beekee, a pioneering startup operating at the intersection of education technology and humanitarian aid, we delve into his multifaceted journey from academia to entrepreneurship. Estupiñán shares captivating insights into Beekee's origin story, its evolution from a local educational tool to a global solution fo
Sorina I. Crisan-Matthey de l'Endroit, PhD
Mar 25, 202419 min read
The Story Behind #OUR_racism: Interview with Fumi Kurihara about Podcasting & Pursuing a Ph.D.
What does it look like to challenge the conventional narratives surrounding race, discrimination, and societal norms? Fumi Kurihara, the creator and host of the thought-provoking podcast series #OUR_racism, provides a compelling answer. In this in-depth interview, Fumi takes us on a journey through her exploration of racism, spurred by the 2020 Black Lives Matter movement. She discusses the main goals of her podcast—creating a space for diverse voices to share personal encoun
Sorina I. Crisan-Matthey de l'Endroit, PhD
Nov 14, 202320 min read
Empowering NGOs & Fostering Organizational Development: Interview with Beatrice Schulter
What does it look like to create positive change in the non-profit sector and foster collaboration among diverse organizations? Beatrice Schulter, Founder and Director of Roots to Rise and Executive Director of the Swiss Network for Education and International Cooperation (RECI), shares her insights and experiences in this thought-provoking interview. With over 20 years of experience in international development cooperation, in over 18 countries, Beatrice Schulter’s passion f
Sorina I. Crisan-Matthey de l'Endroit, PhD
Jul 11, 202315 min read
Innovation and Digital Transformation in the Humanitarian Field: Interview with Françoise Lamotte
What does it look like to work in the fields of digital transformation and innovation within the humanitarian sector? If you aspire towards a career in the humanitarian field and are curious to learn from the experiences of someone who chooses this honorable and crucial life path, then the work and personal story of Françoise Lamotte will greatly inspire you. Lamotte is leading the Digital, Data, Innovation, and ICT strategy and transformation efforts at Terre des hommes (Tdh
Sorina I. Crisan-Matthey de l'Endroit, PhD
May 9, 20237 min read
Stronger Together: International Fundraising with Michel Fornasier Helps Give Children a Hand
What type of work can help children at the international level while successfully combining philanthropy, collaboration, and 3D printing? A creative and inspiring answer to this question is the example of the impactful work accomplished by Michel Fornasier, the founder of Give Children a Hand Foundation. Fornasier, whose actions are guided by the belief that we are stronger together, currently works alongside teams from various countries to help: (1) manufacture free prosthet
Sorina I. Crisan-Matthey de l'Endroit, PhD
Apr 25, 202212 min read
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