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EU Alumni: Oliver Gloe

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Our alumni of the month series looks into the lives of some of EU’s most successful graduates who have gone on to make their mark on the business world. This month, we showcase Oliver Gloe, Vice President Finance for Asia and the Pacific, at The Goodyear Tire & Rubber Company, one of the largest tire companies in the world with annual sales of more than $15 billion. In his role as VP Finance, Oliver focuses on business growth and geographical expansion in the region.

From his time at EU and working in finance to the importance of international experience and having a good mentor, Oliver shares his wealth of knowledge and experience with us.

A Global citizen

Originally from Frankfurt, Germany, Oliver Gloe has always had a strong desire to live abroad and experience the world. After starting his degree in finance in the Bavarian city of Bayreuth, Oliver began his international journey at university in Singapore. Fast forward 20 years and Oliver has lived and worked in several countries across Europe, North America and Asia. Today he is based in the awe-inspiring city of Shanghai.

Why EU was the perfect match for Oliver

After completing his studies in Singapore, Oliver decided it was time for a new challenge and headed to Switzerland to study a BBA on our charming Montreux campus.

I chose EU because of its international appeal. I liked the inter-campus element – the fact that you could move between campuses and gain different experiences. For me, EU was the perfect match.

The EU experience

I thoroughly enjoyed studying at EU Montreux. The campus, which overlooks Lake Geneva, was just fantastic. I’ve studied at four different universities and EU was the smallest. In a way, you feel like a little family. You become close to the professors and the other students. I think that’s what I liked most about EU.

How did EU help?

It’s clear to see that Oliver has excelled in his career. So what role did EU have to play in his success?

EU definitely helped me get to where I am today. It gave me a solid financial background. The professors with real-world experience, small class sizes, case studies and the practical approach made a real difference. Plus, it was great to work and collaborate with people from all over the world. We learnt a lot from each other.

The adventures continue…

After graduating from EU, Oliver discovered that he had many personal reasons for pursuing an MBA in Arizona. At the turn of the millennium, with a great deal of knowledge and a range of skills under his belt, Oliver embarked on his profesional career. From Iserlohn and Ohio to Barcelona and Brussels, he has worked in a variety of top-level financial roles at renowned companies including Bakelite and General Cable during his career.

International experience isn’t for everyone

We asked Oliver how important he felt it was for young people today to gain international experience:

On a personal level, living abroad has had a tremendous effect on me. It has taught me how to think and act globally. To be more flexibile. While it’s important to get as much life experience as possible, I don’t think international experience is for everyone. I have some colleagues, I like to call them ‘local heroes’, who have worked in the same company for 40 years. They have such in-depth knowledge about the company and this makes them extremely valuable. Do what feels right for you.

Final words of wisdom

When it comes to career advice, Oliver had plenty to share with us:

I think it’s incredibly important to like where you are, to enjoy your job and be good at it. I would encourage students to be curious and open to new things. Actively look for new opportunities. Go beyond your specific role and see how you can add value to your company.

Reach out to a mentor and take their advice. Putting my trust in the right people has made me who I am today. Speak to your fellow classmates and build meaningful connections. Trust me, it will help you a great deal throughout your career.

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