Luca Borghi, Corporate Strategy & Acquisitions Manager, Give and Go

In order to help current students and recent graduates to find their way in the working world, many of our alumni shared their career story. Here the story of Luca Borghi, Corporate Strategy & Acquisitions Manager in Give and Go in Toronto (Canada). USI Degree: Master in Finance, 2014.

How did you start your career?

I spent my first 5 years of career working in real asset industry. I started working in a Private Equity firm investing in real estate across Europe. After a couple of years, I wanted to make my career more international and, with a leap of faith, I decided to move to Toronto (Canada). Here, I continued to work in the real asset space as financial advisor in a Big 4. And then, as an opportunity came to me, I joined the deal team on a buy-side sponsor, a public listed company in the renewable sector. 2 years ago, I decided to switch industry, and I started my career in Food and Beverage at “Give and Go”, a Canadian affiliate of Mondelez.

Why did you choose a career at Give and Go?

The opportunity was extremely attractive to me. I have been brought-in by the Head of M&A to drive the sell-mandate of the company itself.

What is your current role/duties?

My day-to-day tasks are quite broad and there is not a specific schedule to follow, but I would summarize my day in the following bullet points:

1. identifying North American M&A targets and partnership in the In-store baking
2. Being responsible for the development and execution of a 5-year strategic plan
3. Valuating main projects, which are considerate essential to drive growth to the company

In your opinion, what are the qualities necessary for a successful career in Give and Go?

Characteristic #1 is being able to explain complex concepts in short and clear messages to set the management up for success. Managing multiple stakeholders on tight time schedule is another key characteristic required for my current role.

What positive aspects and qualities meant most to you during the study programme you attended?

USI offered a complete and detailed study program in relative small classes, which makes easier to build strong relationship with professors and classmates. On top of it, the university offers several opportunities to continue your study abroad, which allow you to expand your network across multiple countries.

What competences and/or skills acquired in your USI Study Program have been useful/are useful to your professional career?

An overall solid financial knowledge and “to going always the extra mile” either for an exam or group essay, shaped my work ethic and me as person on daily basis.

What is your advice to USI students entering the job market?

At the early stage of your career, it is more important to choose a great leader than the company itself. A great leader not only will teach you how to be a better professional on day-to-day, but she/he will stand for you and help you to accelerate your progression within and outside the company.