The Executive MBA program with focus on Digital Transformation at the University of Zurich is currently in the midst of a Learning Expedition to Israel. The expedition is providing the EMBA participants with a unique opportunity to learn about the latest advancements in technology, to connect with local entrepreneurs and business leaders, and to gain valuable insights into the world of digital transformation.

The trip began on Sunday with a lecture at Tel Aviv University by Prof. Uriya Shavit, who provided a comprehensive overview of the geopolitical situation in Israel and the Middle East. Prof. Shavit’s lecture was a great way to start the trip, as it provided the EMBA participants with a deeper understanding of the region and the challenges it faces.

Later on Sunday, the students visited the Peres Innovation Center, which is dedicated to promoting innovation and entrepreneurship. The Center provides a platform for startups and entrepreneurs to connect and collaborate, and the students learned about the latest trends and developments in the world of technology and innovation.

The evening concluded with a welcome dinner, where the students had the opportunity to network and connect with local entrepreneurs and business leaders.

The next day, the EMBA participants visited Check Point Software Technologies, a leading provider of cyber security solutions. The students learned about the company’s products and services, and heard from the CEO about the challenges and opportunities in the cyber security industry.

In addition to the company visit, the students attended a lecture on cyber security, given by Dr. Yaniv Harel, a cyber executive and expert. Dr. Harel is the CSO of TAU Cyber Center and a former GM of Cyber Solutions Group at Dell Technologies. Yaniv provided valuable insights into the world of cyber security, discussing the latest threats and trends and how companies can protect themselves from cyber attacks.

In a fireplace chat hosted by the Swiss Embassy and moderated by Innovation Advisor David Biegeleisen the students had the opportunity to visit Similarweb, a leading provider of digital market intelligence and insights. The company is focused on helping businesses and organizations understand the digital landscape and make data-driven decisions. During the visit, the students learned about Similarweb’s products and services and heard from the CEO and other executives about the company’s approach to innovation and technology and the challenges in the market.

On Wednesday, the EMBA participants heard from Dr. Barak Ben Avinoam, Managing Partner of BGV Europe and Israel, about the Israeli VC landscape. Dr. Avinoam provided valuable insights into the world of venture capital, including the latest trends and developments, and how companies can access funding to drive growth and innovation.

Then the students engaged in a stimulating live case with Insightec, a company that specializes in using technology to transform the medical field. The students learned about Insightec’s innovative approach to healthcare and had the opportunity to hear from the CEO and other executives about the challenges and opportunities in the healthcare industry.

EMBA participant Oxana Hoffmann, Head Of Asset Management at STRADE said: „This Learning Expedition to Israel as part of the EMBA is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to delve into the world of digital transformation and innovation and gain a deeper understanding of the latest advancements in technology. From visiting leading tech companies to learning from experts in the field, this experience has truly opened my eyes to the future of business and the role of technology in shaping it.“

Further topics and themes explored during the Learning Expedition were Big Data and Artificial Intelligence, (Dr. Itai Blitzer and Dr. Yael Inbar) and Creative Thinking and Ideation (Omer Pomerantz).

The Learning Expedition concludes with a visit to the old town of Jerusalem, including visits to the Wailing Wall and the Church of the Sepulchra. This is a great opportunity for the students to learn about the rich history and cultural heritage of the region, and to gain a deeper understanding of the underlying conflicts and the complex challenges of the region.