After graduating from business school with a focus on languages, Silvan Spescha from Engelburg (SG) embarked on two language stays. In French-speaking Switzerland and Canada, he honed his skills in English and French, and familiarized himself with new cultures. To gain early work experience prior to his studies, Silvan completed an internship with the City of St.Gallen in the Human Resources Office. During this time, he realized that a career in public service was not for him – he wanted to explore the vast world. He enrolled in the Bachelor’s degree program in “International Management” with a specialization in strategic management. Before that, he fulfilled his military service as a tank reconnaissance officer. Silvan Spescha completed his Bachelor’s degree with determination, as he was already aware at the time that he needed to attain good grades for a potential Master’s continuation. A few months before graduation, the Corona pandemic threw a curveball. Silvan Spescha completed his Bachelor’s degree with determination, as he was already aware at the time that he needed to attain good grades for a potential Master’s continuation. Half a year later than originally planned (and with the six-month experience abroad) Silvan Spescha completed his Bachelor’s degree – with a specialization in International Strategic Management and a second specialization in Accounting and Controlling.
Connection thanks to a Practical Project
The now 24-year-old then moved to Zurich to work for a consulting firm – not at all his desired field, as he soon realized. And so, after a conversation with KEMARO co-founder Martin Gadient, whom he had met during a previous practical project, he began an internship at the Eschlikon-based robotics company. “The fact that I delayed my semester abroad and didn’t immediately pursue my Master’s degree was fortuitous in retrospect – because I would not have had the opportunity at KEMARO AG.” At the beginning, the start-up environment was a bit of a culture shock: “In the consulting environment I encountered designer chairs and glass walls, but at KEMARO AG we held our meetings on wooden benches at the time.” A minor detail – because the team, the numerous freedoms and the innovative product continue to convince him today. “Thanks to the many freedoms, I am able to achieve and truly develop the business.” He evaluated new tools early on and contacted potential investors. His open, interested manner won them over and he eventually secured a permanent position with the Swiss robotics specialists.
Potential for the Future
Parallel to his work, Silvan Spescha is pursuing a Master’s degree in Business Innovation at the HSG. Silvan no longer likes to hear the stereotypes associated with HSG students. “I don’t do a job for prestige, but to make a difference and gain practical experience.” Thanks to his job at KEMARO AG, he is close to the business world, with both feet on the ground. He aspires to actively influence and shape the robotics company. To this end, he has acquired knowledge about the industry, social transformation, and various business models of robotics companies. “I have great plans for KEMARO AG.”
