The CEMS Global Alliance is a purpose led organization, powered by our beliefs that great leadership starts with self-leadership and societal progress requires continual exploration. In this series of interviews, we take a look at CEMS students and alumni that are contributing to make this world a more open, sustainable and inclusive world.
Humans of CEMS: Achieving One's Full Potential in the Startup Scene
In today's alumni focus, we would like to introduce you to Victor Tibo, co-lead of CEMS Entrepreneurs and a Venture Manager at Startup-Manufaktur, a company that builds startups and spin-offs in the deep tech & digital sector.
1. What does your day job consist of?
I work at a newly founded company builder in Vienna called Startup-Manufaktur. First and foremost, we help scientists and technical teams to commercialize their technologies by founding a startup. Secondly, we work with corporates to build spin-offs and craft innovation strategies. Most importantly, instead of working like a traditional professional services, we diligently choose projects in which we see great potential and become business co-founders, sharing the risks and rewards of the new venture with our partners.
2. Why do you want to work in the startup scene?
I have been tinkering with computers and software as well as following the tech scene ever since I can remember. Nevertheless, I never considered working in the startup scene until after my first CEMS year.
After two consulting internships I realized that I enjoy the fast-paced and project-based working style, but would prefer to work outside corporate hierarchies in a more entrepreneurial setting.
Through the CEMS program I had the chance to take an entrepreneurship class and do my CEMS Business Project with startups. I loved the entrepreneurial working style and switched my focus from consulting to entrepreneurship, taking every opportunity to dive deeper into the scene. For example, participating in and organizing startup events, hackathons, workshops and ultimately joining CEMS Entrepreneurs.
3. What made you want to co-lead CEMS Entrepreneurs?
The CEMS program is extremely diverse in many dimensions which made it highly attractive to me. However, I was struggling to find students and career opportunities related to entrepreneurship within the CEMS universe.
In 2018, I joined the organizing team of the CEMS Startup Challenge which was a joint project of the Student Board and CEMS Entrepreneurs. It was a wonderful experience to finally collaborate with and learn from experienced founders, investors and innovators that all share the CEMS experience.
4. What is the mission of CEMS Entrepreneurs?
CEMS Entrepreneurs supports students and alumni in their entrepreneurial journey by fostering exchange, creating opportunities for growth as well as raising the importance of entrepreneurship within the CEMS universe.
Our main event this fall is the CEMS Startup Challenge. At the event, students and alumni can pitch their business ideas in front of a panel of corporate partners, VCs and founders. It will be held virtually on November 11, 2020 during the CEMS Career Forum. Students can learn more about the challenge on our Facebook event page.
To learn more about the CEMS Startup Challenge and CEMS Entrepreneurs in general check out www.cemsentrepreneurs.com.
We are also currently looking for CEMSies that are enthusiastic about entrepreneurship and would like to join the team. If you are interested, send a message to info@cemsentrepreneurs.com.
Lastly, CEMS Alumni can join the CEMS Entrepreneurs group on the CEMS Alumni platform. They can also add their projects under the Startups & Ventures tab.
