On Friday, February 23, EU welcomed Markus Hongler, CEO of the Swiss insurance giant La Mobilière, for an insightful guest speaker conference at the Fairmont Le Montreux Palace. This exciting event formed part of EU’s series of inspiring guest speaker sessions, with previous speakers such as Paul Bulcke, chairman of Nestlé, and Mathieu Jaton, CEO of Montreux Jazz Festival, that aims to expose students to the world’s most successful business leaders.
Learning from leaders
Established in 1826, La Mobilière is the oldest private insurer in Switzerland. Today it is the the market leader in the property and casual insurance business, as well as the largest termlife and SME insurer in the country. A combination of its proud 192 years of history, a workforce of more than 5,000 highly-motivated employees and profits of CHF 439.5 million in 2016 amount to an outstanding enterprise.
Known as one of the most progressive CEOs in the insurance industry, Markus Hongler joined us in Montreux to share his ground-breaking vision and strategy for the future of the insurance business, and provide our students with some valuable advice for their own career journeys.
A warm welcome
The exciting event kicked off with a welcome address from EU Business School President Dr. Dirk Craen. He introduced our esteemed speaker to an eager crowd of EU students, staff, faculty members and distinguished guests.
Mr. Hongler went on to deliver an engaging presentation on why La Mobilière is the fastest growing insurance company in Switzerland. He touched on the company’s personal approach to business and their philosophy of partnership, responsibility and customer orientation. Afterwards, he provided students with some invaluable career advice, highlighting the importance of working hard, standing up for what you believe in and choosing a job that you love.
My message to you today is to remain curious. Be open to jump into new and unknown experiences, and most importantly, act with integrity. Challenge yourself, and when you start your career, challenge your boss. Be a little bit of troublemaker, not just a yes-man or yes-woman!
Words of wisdom
Guests also had the chance to put their questions to Mr. Honger in an insightful Q&A session to foster their young entrepreneurs’ ideas. He provided an insight into his personal career journey and offered some words of wisdom to EU students looking to start careers in the insurance industry.
Making connections
Afterwards, students and guests had the chance to share ideas and make connections during the networking coffee break. A great day was had by all who attended.
Watch our video to see Mr. Hongler in action and get a feel for the day:
