Giorgio Borsatti, Factory Controller, ABB

To help current students and recent graduates navigate the world of work, several USI Alumni shared their career paths and career story. Here the story of Giorgio Borsatti, Factory Controller at ABB in Milan (I). USI Degree: Master in Finance, 2021.

How did you start your career?

My career has started with an internship at Banca Akros in Milan. During these 6 months I have worked in the Equity Research department as a Sell Side Analyst. Even though I’ve been always more interested in the industrial sector I decided to look for a short time experience in a bank because after my master in Finance I wanted to learn more about financial markets and company valuations. In addition, I decided to explore more this area because I really enjoyed participating at the CFA challenge during my third semester at USI.

Why did you choose a career at ABB?

I decided to pursue a career in ABB because I was able to get in into the ABB Global Early Talent Program (GETP). What I liked about this 2 year program is that it allows you to spend some time abroad, rotating in some of the ABB location around the globe. Thanks to this program I was able to spend 1 year in the USA and 6 months in Switzerland. I think that the possibility of working abroad for some time, especially at the beginning of your career, can be a great way to exit from your comfort zone and nurture your mindset.

What is your current role/duties?

Right now I’m a factory controller for a 300 millions revenues business. Some of the main duties includes:

• standard costing, budgeting & forecasting.
• looking at materials cost and be able to explain any deviations.
• balance sheet and Income Statement Analysis.
• monthly, quarterly and yearly closing process.

In your opinion, what are the qualities necessary for a successful career at ABB?

I believe that nowadays if you are looking for a job in a multinational company like ABB Is very important being able to work in a team environment. Furthermore, I would say that it’s always very important providing your opinion and new ideas in case you think there is a smarter way in doing things. In addition, knowing how to use Excel properly is essential in order to make a good impression at the start.

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

What I really liked about my master at USI is that I had the possibility of working in small groups in a lot of projects. All of that helped me a lot in improving both my communication and leadership. In addition, I have been very satisfied because of the high professors quality.

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

I would say that the possibility of working in small groups with people from different nationalities has been very useful because in a corporate environment you have to be collaborative. In addition, at USI I have improved my autonomy skills through working on long projects.

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

I would suggest to consider spending some time abroad because it’s a great way to grow your mindset faster. In addition, it allows you to think differently and see also how business is made in other countries.