A Portrait: Lukas Jezler, CEO Gottlieb Duttweiler Institut
Alumnus Lukas Jezler has been CEO of the Gottlieb Duttweiler Institute (GDI) since 2021. In his new role, he has made "creating future" his motto - always with the aim of not only developing visions, but also implementing them. Author: Charlotte Ulmann, Pictures: Petra Wolfensberger
What memories do you associate with the University of Zurich?
It was an insanely wonderful time with many positive memories. I remember the many "pushers" in the Lichthof at the beginning of my studies - and the first time I had to catch up on the intermediate exams. Towards the licentiate, things were more orderly, and I especially remember the many hours spent in the Central Library or the Museum Society. What I particularly liked about the University of Zurich was the liberal and university-like element, such as the opportunity to get a taste of other fields like psychology.
Was it always clear to you that you wanted to study economics?
No, not at all. As a child I wanted to become a farmer - which was obvious, we lived in Appenzell at the time. After school, I first wanted to study psychology or chemistry, but then finally landed on economics - whereby financial and career aspects played a major role in this decision. But then I began to enjoy the economic way of thinking more and more. And this pleasure has remained until today. It still fascinates me how organisations work.
What are you particularly proud of in your career?
Of the development of MiSENSO, the new specialist shop for acoustics and optics of the Migros Group. I was able to conceive and realise this idea at Migros and send it on its way. The shop-in-shop concept is growing, which makes me very happy.
How would you describe yourself as a person? What values are important to you?
I like conceptual thinking on a solid basis - with a simultaneous view of what is implementable. That is why I am often found in strategy topics. Commitment is a central value for me. It is worthwhile to achieve something and to have the courage to try something new. Nothing ventured, nothing gained: If I have two possible courses of action, I choose the one where something could go wrong. It's like in sport: you don't win if you start with a margin of safety. In business, unfortunately, this is usually the opposite: that's why there are so many risk-averse managers. Those who have no exposure and remain unassailable often end up with the majority.
What advice do you give to students of today?
Practice is the key. Instead of working towards top grades, my advice is to develop your own passion early on. It is also important to make a good start in your career. It helps if you can gain practical experience early on. And also change early if it doesn't fit. After a few years, it becomes more and more difficult to change sectors until you reach top management, where an outside perspective can again be seen as an asset. But until then it takes time.
Speaking of passion: What do you burn for? And what do you absolutely still want to achieve?
What many people probably don't know: My first passion was water skiing! I have practised this sport from an early age and have taken part in numerous competitions abroad with a lot of commitment and heart and soul. Professionally, I take great pleasure in finding solutions to a difficult problem or when I manage to turn something negative into something positive. What I don't like at all, however, is when things just peter out. I would definitely like to achieve more serenity - a central element for a healthy work-life balance.
Author: Charlotte Ulmann, Pictures: Petra Wolfensberger
Oec. magazine issue #17