For those with a deep-rooted passion for the food and beverage industry, finding a programme that combines academic excellence with real-world relevance can be a daunting task. Through the personal stories of three MSc in International Food & Beverage Management alumni, Crystal Rodriguez, Paolo Marzani and Hsuan-Hsuan Chang, we explore how this programme has helped them overcome challenges and seize the opportunities in their respective careers, from corporate leadership roles to entrepreneurial ventures.
Corporate Experience and Hands-On Learning
Crystal Rodriguez, Junior Communications Manager at Danone Communities, highlights the programme’s emphasis on corporate experience and hands-on learning. “I think the best way to describe this Master’s is limitless. For me, it was an opening to a whole new world of Food & Beverage that I didn’t really know […] It was really an opportunity to go as deep as I wanted to in different things, whether it was biodynamic wineries in Langhe or it was a cooking school in France,” she says.
Through case studies, industry projects and company experiences, students gain a realistic understanding of the challenges and opportunities in the industry, equipping them with the skills to navigate the corporate world with confidence.
A Holistic Approach to Industry Dynamics
Paolo Marzani, Strategy and Planning Manager at High Quality Food S.p.A., praises the programme’s strong focus on the food and beverage industry. “The Master’s had a significant impact on my professional experience, thanks to the combination of interdisciplinary courses and a specific focus on the Food & Beverage industry. It did provide me with a great comprehension of the market, the value chain and the critical success factors. Today, I recognise how much easier it is for me to understand industry trends and to address challenges within the company I work for,” he explains.
By providing a comprehensive understanding of the industry, from production to distribution and marketing, the programme empowers students to make informed decisions and drive innovation in their respective fields.
Cultural Immersion and Global Perspectives
Hsuan-Hsuan Chang, founder of Fusion Flavors Hospitality Group, shares how the programme’s cultural immersion in Italy and France has shaped her career. “Studying in Turin was a big opportunity for me to understand Italian cuisine, Italian way of living, and just, it was an opportunity for me to experience something different that I could not experience before And of course, finally going back to Paris to finish my studies, I thought was a great continuation and a very good step for my future career,” she says.
The programme’s global perspective and opportunities for cultural exchange enable students to develop a nuanced understanding of international markets and consumer preferences, preparing them for success in a globalised industry.
The MSc in International F&B Management is characterised by its emphasis on practical learning and international exposure. It provides students with a solid foundation in key areas such as operations management, marketing strategies, and financial analysis specific to the F&B sector.
Students gain valuable insights into the complexities of managing food and beverage businesses by integrating real-world case studies, guest lectures from the industry and consultancy projects with companies. For example, students can analyse the strategies of successful F&B companies, study supply chain dynamics or develop innovative marketing campaigns tailored to the industry.
The programme’s global perspective ensures that students understand the nuances of operating in different cultural and market environments. Several study trips to regions renowned for their culinary excellence, such as Piedmont, Tuscany, Emilia Romagna and Champagne, broaden students’ understanding of F&B trends and practices. In addition, internships allow students to apply theoretical concepts learned in the classroom in a practical setting, ultimately preparing them for a career in the industry.
As the testimonials of Crystal, Paolo and Hsuan-Hsuan demonstrate, the programme’s emphasis on practical experience and industry-specific knowledge sets graduates up for success in their careers, whether in corporate roles or entrepreneurial ventures.
