Next in Management is a dynamic program designed for Franklin’s most promising student leaders, offering them a unique opportunity to shape and enhance their academic community. Participants actively engage in a diverse range of activities that prepare them for leadership roles in a globalized world. These activities include designing and managing impactful events, conducting insightful market research, spearheading innovative digital initiatives, and fostering strong connections within the Franklin community and beyond.
Guided by experienced faculty mentors, students in the Next in Management program develop valuable professional skills and make significant contributions to the university’s academic affairs. Through their efforts, they help to create a more vibrant, inclusive, and forward-thinking academic environment, leaving a lasting legacy for future generations at Franklin.
Read more about the achievements of these student leaders and explore how the Next in Management program continues to empower Franklin’s brightest minds to lead with purpose and creativity.
RECENT EVENTS
Meet the Manager with Waldo Perez | September 24, 2026
Dr. Waldo Perez, geologist and former CEO of several mining companies, shared insights from his 30-year career in mineral exploration, including his role in discovering some of the world’s largest lithium deposits across the Americas. He discussed the challenges behind major discoveries, from securing investments to navigating business and political obstacles.
Drawing on his experience, Perez highlighted the importance of persistence, adaptability and continuous learning. He encouraged students to take calculated risks, invest in strong teams and anticipate future opportunities, reminding them that success often comes through repeated attempts and learning from setbacks.
Meet the Manager with Sumind Peiris | September 8, 2026
Franklin alumna Sumindi Peiris (Class of 1994), co-founder of The Host Stand Agency and founder of Moxi Branding, reflected on her international career across leading brands including Hennessy, Waldorf Astoria and Johnnie Walker. She highlighted how trusting her instincts, embracing new experiences and learning from mistakes helped shape her professional journey.
Her advice to students was to value the adaptability, creativity and interpersonal skills developed through a liberal arts education. She also emphasized the importance of building meaningful connections, continuously learning and following career paths that reflect personal strengths and ambitions.
Meet the Manager with Peter Conrad | April 9, 2026
Peter Conrad, Head of Private Banking at PKB, shared insights from his 37-year career in international finance, which took him from Zurich to Rome, Hong Kong, Monaco and Tokyo. He reflected on navigating major financial crises, embracing unexpected opportunities and rebuilding his career through change.
His key message to students was to remain curious, say yes to new opportunities and see challenges as opportunities for growth. He also emphasized that professional success goes beyond money, highlighting the importance of humility, adaptability and human relationships.
Meet the Manager with Paolo Pedersoli | February 26, 2026
At Franklin’s Meet the Manager event, Paolo Pedersoli, Founder of Scuderia Classiche and former Ferrari Team Manager, shared his career journey from Formula One to the world of classic cars. He highlighted the importance of teamwork, learning from mistakes and embracing new challenges.
Reflecting on his decision to launch his own business, Pedersoli encouraged students to embrace change, take risks and pursue professional paths that offer both personal fulfilment and meaningful achievements.
Meet the Manager with Jesse Fioranelli | November 26, 2025
Franklin alumn Jesse Fioranelli returned to campus for the Meet the Manager series, sharing insights into his international career in professional football. Having started as a football agent, he moved into technical and sporting management roles, working with leading clubs including S.S. Lazio, A.S. Roma, San Jose Earthquakes, AC Milan, Al Nassr and ACF Fiorentina. Throughout his career, he has contributed to the development of world-class players such as Mohamed Salah, Antonio Rüdiger and Cristiano Ronaldo.
During the discussion, Fioranelli highlighted the importance of strategy, scouting, player development and teamwork in modern football, emphasizing that “a system beats talent every time.” He also encouraged students to embrace non-linear career paths, explaining how different experiences and opportunities can shape professional growth and lead to unexpected success.
Meet the Manager with Marina Buraschi | November 5, 2025
Her impressive career includes experience with prestigious brands such as Cartier, Bulgari Hotels & Resorts, and Loro Piana, where she developed her expertise in luxury retail and client engagement. Currently part of the front office team at The View Lugano, Marina continues to refine her skills in creating exceptional guest experiences.
During this session, Marina Buraschi will share insights from her time at Franklin, her journey in pursuing a master’s degree, and her experiences in the luxury industry. She will also discuss what it takes to start a business in such a competitive and refined sector.
Meet the Manager with Oliver Knutti | October 8, 2025
Olivier Knutti, Managing Director of 88K, a Swiss brokerage specializing in pre-owned business jets. Each year, 88K oversees around 20 transactions ranging from private clients to corporations and airlines. Olivier will share insider perspectives on aircraft valuation, the transaction process, and the challenges facing today’s aviation market, while also reflecting on hiring and regulatory issues in Switzerland. This event offers students a unique opportunity to gain direct insight from an experienced leader in the global aircraft brokerage field.
Meet the Manager with Morgan Mellinger | April 23, 2025
Morgan Mellinger is a Vice President in Blackstone's Institutional Client Solutions group in San Francisco, where she works with family offices, endowments, foundations, and other institutional and private clients on the West Coast and Canada. Before joining Blackstone, Morgan spent 4 years at Hall Capital Partners, a multi-family office in San Francisco, where she worked on the Portfolio Management and Investment Operations teams.
Morgan graduated from Franklin Switzerland with a B.A. in International Management and Finance.
Meet the Manager with Angelica Morrone | March 27, 2025
Angelica Morrone is a highly respected leader in finance and venture capital, currently serving as General Partner in Privilège Ventures. With an extensive background as a hedge fund manager, angel investor, board advisor, and strategic funding consultant, Angelica has built a career rooted in impact-driven investments.
Her early interest in business, fostered in Italy, has taken her across Europe and the U.S., culminating in a deep commitment to empowering innovative startups.
Meet the Manager with Beatrice Revay | February 12, 2025
Beatrice Revay, a Franklin alumna with a Bachelor’s degree in International Relations, is the Head of Global Product Management Accessories at HUGO BOSS. She also holds an EMBA from the University of Kansas and has built a successful career in the fashion industry. With expertise in trend analysis, luxury goods, customer service, retail, and wholesale, she is a seasoned Senior Merchandising and Licensing Manager.
The Franklin community is invited to participate in this Meet the Manager event and join an exclusive case study challenge with HUGO BOSS. This initiative offers the opportunity to work in teams on real-world product management scenarios, including market analysis, competitive positioning, and pricing strategy. Participants will receive mentorship from industry experts and present their final strategies at HUGO BOSS headquarters.