Archive

2020

Wednesday, December 9, 2020 9:30 – 11:00 AM

A Virtual Presentation and Conversation on “The Role of Technology in Society Amid COVID-19 and Changing Expectations for Leaders”

On Wednesday, December 9, students interested in global management and technology from across Anderson’s MBA programs joined students from Germany’s Friedrich-Alexander University of Erlangen-Nuremberg (FAU) for a fascinating discussion with Professor Terry Kramer, faculty director of the Easton Technology Management Center who leads the CGM’s Shenzhen/Hong Kong technology transformation-focused Global Immersion course. During the 90-minute session that was hosted as part of FAU’s seminar series on topical issues in international politics and economics, Kramer discussed key technology trends and the impact of COVID-19 on promising areas of innovation. He also addressed broader learnings on the role of technology and business in society and the changing role of the CEO. Through an eye-opening review of the four phases of the technology evolution, beginning in the 1980s with the era of the PC to present day, Kramer explored what is happening globally and discussed the main technologies affecting our world today (and beyond), including 4G/5G networks, IoT, cloud computing, artificial intelligence and machine learning. Citing examples from around the world, he addressed changing customer behaviors, competition, emerging market trends and public policy issues such as data privacy, anti-trust and cybersecurity. Kramer explored the implications of current events, including the COVID-19 pandemic and racial injustices, and highlighted the need for new models of inclusion. He also addressed the business as well as the public policy implications of technology-based innovations, including the role of technology in addressing societal issues in healthcare, education and transportation. In many cases, the pandemic has accelerated technology adoption and increased the awareness of the role of technology on public health. Kramer explained that there have been notable leadership implications, including an awareness of the need for CEOs to serve a broader set of stakeholders, including employees, communities and government. While exploring the leadership implications of technology-based innovation, he highlighted the growing interdisciplinary nature of innovation, notable cases of both value creation and value destruction and suggested that business models and monetization strategies are changing. While recognizing the growing focus of technology and society, Kramer also pointed out the growing “tech backlash” too. There was great curiosity among the Anderson and FAU students who posed many impressive questions during the dialogue that followed which was moderated by Gian Luca Gardini, FAU’s professor of international relations and Latin American politics. The discussion that was hosted by the Friedrich-Alexander University of Erlangen-Nuremberg (FAU) in Germany was in partnership with UCLA Anderson’s Center for Global Management and Easton Technology Management Center.

x
Learn more...
Thursday, December 3, 2020, 11:30 AM – 12:30 PM

A Virtual Lunchtime Conversation with Marcial Rapela, Partner Bain & Co. on “Global Consulting and Business Challenges in Latin America Amid COVID-19”

On Thursday, December 3, the Center for Global Management and Latin American Business Association (LABA) hosted a virtual lunchtime discussion with Chile-based Marcial Rapela, partner at Bain & Co. and head of the Santiago, Chile office, where he is an expert in the firm’s Energy & Natural Resources, Advancing Manufacturing & Services and Metals & Mining practices. The luncheon provided an opportunity for interested students from across MBA programs to meet with Rapela in an informal and interactive virtual setting and hear about his extensive consulting career with Bain & Co. in Latin and Central America and the types of projects that he has worked on. He discussed the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the consulting sector and on his organization and shared his predictions on the implications in the short and longer terms as a result of pandemic. Over 30 students from the full-time, fully employed and executive MBA programs, including members of LABA, the Management Consulting Association (MCA) and students interested in global management joined the interactive session. Rapela talked about the recruitment process for consulting and the important skillsets for new hires. He provided tangible advice for students looking to enter the consulting world – both post full-time MBA as well as more experienced hires. He also addressed how Bain has fostered social engagement and maintained culture in the virtual environment with various engagement tools both internally and with its clients. Rapela has worked with top management of large national and multinational groups in several industries such as financial services, healthcare, consumer goods, transportation and logistics, technology, retail and agrochemicals, in Chile, Brazil, Argentina, Colombia, Peru, Mexico, and Central America. He has led engagements addressing strategic planning, business unit and corporate strategy, internationalization strategy, M&A, corporate and organizational restructuring, operational excellence programs, distribution strategy, customer loyalty, IT, and product portfolio optimization. The lunch, organized by the Latin American Business Association in partnership with the Center for Global Management, was supported by the Management Consulting Association.

x
Learn more...
Tuesday, December 1, 2020, 11:30 AM – 12:30 PM

A Virtual Lunchtime Conversation with Jim Allen ('93), Head of M&A LatAm at Morgan Stanley on “Global Investment Banking & Doing Business in Latin America”

On Tuesday, December 1, the Center for Global Management hosted a virtual lunchtime discussion with Jim Allen (’93), an alumnus of the full-time MBA program and member of the CGM’s advisory board. Allen is a senior investment banker and strategic advisor, with over 27 years of experience in investment banking in the U.S. and across Latin America. Since earning his MBA from Anderson in 1993, Allen has been in the Investment Banking Division at Morgan Stanley, having held positions in U.S. M&A, the Global Media & Communications banking group, and since 2008, as head of M&A for the Latin America region. During his career at Morgan Stanley, Allen has been involved in equity and debt capital markets transactions, and has advised corporations, family-controlled businesses, and governments in M&A transactions, privatizations and debt restructurings. Students from the full-time, fully employed and executive MBA programs, interested in global management and business, including members of the Investment Finance Association and Latin American Business Association joined the intimate and interactive session to hear from Allen. He discussed his experience as a global investment banker and strategic advisor and his career transition from U.S. Navy enabled by UCLA Anderson and talked about his career trajectory since graduating. Allen also shared his experience doing business internationally within a highly global, U.S.-based multinational and addressed the cultural challenges for a non-native speaker and U.S. citizen of doing business in Latin America. He shared some leadership lessons with students and addressed the importance of cultural awareness and being able to adapt as the environment evolves. Students received tangible advice as they think about their own careers. Allen also shared his thoughts on the future of global finance in what some would describe as a current anti-globalization environment. Prior to Anderson, Allen served for seven years as an officer in the U.S. Navy, including six months as an exchange officer in the Chilean Navy.

x
Learn more...
Friday – Saturday, November 20-21, 2020

International Symposium on Global Chinese Entrepreneurship (Virtual)

Global Chinese entrepreneurship, diasporic Chinese entrepreneurship in particular, is a long-standing phenomenon for scholarly research. The historian and sinologist Gungwu Wang created a pyramid concept of Chinese migration with huashang (华商 meaning Chinese merchants and traders) as the foundation. Historically and in contemporary times, entrepreneurship has been a vital aspect of diasporic Chinese life and crucial for understanding Chinese migration, diasporic formation, and ancestral homeland/hometown development. The international symposium which was conducted virtually was organized by the UCLA Asia Pacific Center and attracted many scholars to investigate and discuss the phenomenon further. Over 50 students, academics and entrepreneurs joined to hear academics share their research through a series of panel discussions that explored various topics such as: identifying the distinct patterns in diasporic Chinese entrepreneurship in historical and comparative perspectives and the relations between diasporic Chinese entrepreneurs and their ancestral homeland/hometowns; tracking the global and local forces that have transformed the ways in which Chinese migrants start and run their businesses in different national or transnational settings; the importance of local and transnational networks in business; the causes and consequences of entrepreneurship that are distinctly Chinese or are based on sub-ethnic identity; and the ways in which the understanding of global Chinese entrepreneurship would shed light on the general phenomenon of ethnic/immigrant entrepreneurship. Professor Min Zhou, director of the UCLA Asia Pacific Center provided welcome remarks and the opening keynote address on “Taishang, China and Global Value Chains” was delivered by Jieh-min Wu, from the Sociology Institute, Academia Sinica, Taiwan. UCLA Anderson’s Sherry Wu, assistant professor of management and organizations served as moderator for the Saturday morning panel and was joined by distinguished academics who shared their research with the audience. Funding for the symposium was provided by the Department of International and Cross-Strait Education, Ministry of Education, Taiwan, represented by the Education Division, Taipei Economic and Cultural Office (TECO) in Los Angeles. The symposium was co-sponsored by the UCLA Anderson Center for Global Management and the Contemporary China Research Cluster, The University of Hong Kong.

x
Learn more...
November 16-20, 2020

International Education Week at UCLA – Connecting Across Borders

International Education Week (IEW) is a joint initiative of the U.S. Departments of State and Education and highlights the value of international education and exchanges at universities throughout the United States each fall. It is a challenging time to commemorate IEW. COVID-19 precautions are greatly limiting in-person classes and residential hall occupancy on campus. Tightened U.S. visa regulations have made it difficult for international students to travel to the U.S. during the pandemic, while Bruins hoping to study and/or conduct research abroad are facing the disappointment of delayed plans. Despite, or perhaps because of, our current circumstances, the organizers of International Education Week at UCLA believe international education and exchange remain more important than ever. If the pandemic has shown us anything, it is just how interconnected our world is. In fact, the pandemic is just one of many compelling global challenges whose resolution requires global collaboration — climate change, armed conflict, migration, economic inequity and racial injustice among them. The IEW organizers believe that an informed understanding of the world, its cultures and contemporary concerns is a crucial component of education in the 21st century and essential to preparing Bruins to be effective global leaders and citizens.

The 2020 IEW ran virtually from November 16-20, 2020. For the fifth year in a row, the UCLA International Institute led a large-scale UCLA observation of International Education Week. The flexibility provided by the online environment, enabled more Bruins to learn about international educational programs, research opportunities and scholarships; discover a wide range of career paths; interact with alumni working in the international sphere; appreciate activities reflecting the diversity of global cultures at UCLA; and participate in discussions with international students, faculty and university leaders on issues of global significance — including the worldwide impact of the novel coronavirus and the global scope of contemporary anti-racism movements.

The UCLA International Institute, together with a team of campus partners, including UCLA Study Abroad, Dashew Center for International Students and Scholars, UCLA Residential Life and the UCLA Library planned a week of engaging activities, including sessions on alumni, global and global health careers; information sessions on global internships, as well as FLAS and Fulbright fellowships; conversations with students and alumni living abroad and with international students at UCLA and abroad; and a global trivia contest. In addition, the week also featured a range of webinars on international issues organized by units across campus, including " Global Movements against Racial Capitalism," " Migrant Lives At Israel's Margins" and " The UN Security Council Veto and Atrocity Crimes." As a lead up to IEW, on Thursday, November 12, the Center for Global Management also hosted a lunchtime conversation on “Equity, Diversity and Inclusion in the Workplace Around the Globe,” with leaders from across Europe, Latin America and the United States, including London-based UCLA alumna Marilou Calara (B.S. ’86), chief operating officer of EMEA Investments, Citi Private Bank; U.S.-based Katrina Jones, diversity and inclusion lead for Amazon Web Services ProServe; and Chile-based Manola Sanchez, former dean, Universidad Adolfo Ibanez. Not only have these women tackled leadership challenges, they have done so in sectors not particularly known for diversity—namely finance, technology and education. The discussion was also proudly featured as part of UCLA Anderson’s Embracing Diversity Series.

Mid-week, on Wednesday, November 18th, one of the featured events of IEW, the “UCLA Global Conversation,” was focused on “Global Racism and the Role of Education.” Racism threatens the lives and rights of billions of people around the world. Despite outlawing racial discrimination through a multilateral treaty in 1965, governments continue to perpetuate and permit racism—and individuals continue to commit racist acts with impunity. Eliminating racism remains an unrealized promise of universal human rights. Though more and more people today are educating themselves about racism, education alone is insufficient. Anna Spain Bradley, vice chancellor of equity, diversity and inclusion at UCLA joined Cindy Fan, vice provost of international studies and global engagement for a moderated conversation which attracted an audience of over 200 students, faculty, alumni, staff, campus leaders, friends, and colleagues from other educational institutions; as well as those from around the world, who engaged in this important conversation. A legal scholar and human rights advocate, Vice Chancellor Bradley critically engaged how education can address racism in the United States and abroad and the role educators must play in shaping a less racist future.

The UCLA International Education Week team reaffirms its commitment to international education and its solidarity with UCLA’s international students and scholars and considers the contributions of international students, scholars and researchers to U.S. universities — and the ability of U.S. students to participate in study and internship programs abroad — an invaluable part of higher education. View video of the discussion >>

x
Learn more...
Monday, November 16, 2020 6:30 – 8:00 PM

Virtual Conversation World Today Discussion Series: "U.S.-India Relations"

The U.S.-India relationship is vital to security and stability in the world and is founded on a shared commitment to freedom, democratic principles, and the rule of law. The strong people-to-people ties between the countries, reflected in a strong Indian American diaspora, have been a tremendous source of strength for the partnership. U.S.-Indian relations have recently benefited from close ties between Prime Minister Modi and President Trump, following a 20-year effort to improve relations that has survived many political transitions in both countries. The past two decades have seen a surge in bilateral trade and a growing convergence of strategic interests, and in recent years a series of military co-operation deals. On many transnational issues, including cybersecurity, freedom of navigation in the Indian Ocean, and climate change - New Delhi and Washington are natural partners linked by common interests and values. Growing antagonism between China and the West also favors closer links between India and the US. Taken together, this should provide confidence for the future of the relationship. Will economic retrenchment and economic headwinds due to the COVID pandemic dampen US-India ties, or will these flourish as China’s global ambitions become subject to greater pushback?

On Monday, November 16, the Center for Global Management and Indian School of Business (ISB) hosted a discussion on U.S.-India relations that addressed these questions and more. Arvind Singhal (’82), president of the UCLA Anderson Alumni Chapter in India and chairman of Technopak Advisors moderated a fascinating and broad reaching discussion with Shyam Saran, 26th foreign secretary of India; Keshav Murugesh, group CEO of WNS Global Services, a NYSE listed company in the BPM business headquartered in Mumbai; and Romain Wacziarg, professor of economics and Hans Hufschmid Chair in Management who teaches the CGM’s business environment of India global immersion courses. Bhagwan Chowdhry, professor of finance at ISB and research professor at UCLA Anderson provided opening remarks. Singhal set the context for the 90-minute conversation by addressing three historical phases of the relationship: pre-1947; post India’s independence and pre-reforms in India; and post-Cold War. He contextualized the relationship through different prisms. Panelists then explored the strategic relations, macro linkages of trade and financial flows as well as the business and societal linkages between the world’s two largest democracies. The global audience of students, alumni, faculty, staff, and members of the extended UCLA and ISB communities and general public asked many interesting questions during the audience Q&A that went into a deeper discussion on some of the key topics raised and addressed the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RECP), arguably the largest free trade agreement in history that was recently signed by 15 countries. India was to be a member of the RCEP but withdrew. During open discussion among the panelists, they also addressed what opportunities exist to expand the U.S.-India partnership in support of mutual interests during these challenging times with the hope that India and the United States will someday attain the relationship they deserve. Panelists reached an optimistic consensus on the bright future of U.S.-India relations. The discussion which was part of the CGM’s World Today Discussion Series was in partnership with The Global ISB Forum (TGIF), supported by the ISB-EY Initiative for Emerging Markets. The World Today Discussion Series engages students in dialogue in an interactive, engaging and enriching discussion format around current global issues that transcend borders. Through the series, the CGM engages globally minded students with issues that matter and ideas that stimulate. Through balanced discourse, the series serves as a neutral forum to educate students on global issues while at the same time encourage debate and examination. UCLA Anderson’s Center for Global Management is committed to providing timely and relevant information about critical global topics and issues that matter to our community and the world. 

x
Learn more...
Thursday, November 12, 2020 11:30 AM – 12:30 PM

Virtual Conversation World Today Discussion Series: "Equity, Diversity and Inclusion in the Workplace Around the Globe"

The events of 2020, including the COVID-19 pandemic and social unrest have turned workplaces upside down and are changing and shaping the world we live in. Amid the pandemic, many employees are struggling to do their jobs now that the boundaries between work and home have blurred. Challenges that women already faced have been intensified. There has also been a shift in the global understanding of diversity, equity and inclusion. Diversity spans many dimensions – both visible and invisible identities – and our descriptions and approaches must be intersectional. Workers also want equitable and inclusive environments that are safe and welcome a variety of voices. The choices companies must make now are critical and urgent, and could shape the workplace for decades to come.

On Thursday, November 12, the Center for Global Management hosted a moderated conversation with leaders from across Europe, Latin America and the United States. Not only have these women tackled leadership challenges, they have done so in sectors not particularly known for diversity—namely finance, technology and education. The conversation was moderated by Professor Sebastian Edwards. Panelists included: UCLA alumna Marilou Calara (B.S. ’86), chief operating officer of EMEA Investments, Citi Private Bank who has been with Citi for almost twenty years since receiving her MBA from Berkeley and originally considering a career in the foreign service; U.S.-based Katrina Jones, diversity and inclusion lead for Amazon Web Services ProServe who has served as a D&I lead at large, complex global companies and startups and now oversees thousands of employees at AWS; and Chile-based Manola Sanchez, former dean, Universidad Adolfo Ibanez, who spent time at McKinsey and Goldman Sachs and was the first Chilean woman to obtain an MBA from Harvard Business School. Drawing on professional and personal experiences, panelists shared stories and unique perspectives from their own careers. They addressed challenges faced along the way and provided insights on equity, diversity and inclusion in their respective countries and regions as well as across global workforces. They highlighted the power of unfamiliar perspectives and experiences and showed how international and domestic diversity go hand in hand. The discussion underscored how this moment in time requires long-term thinking, creativity, strong leadership, and a laser focus on the value of diversity and inclusion in the workplace. The global audience of students, alumni, faculty, staff, and members of the extended UCLA community and general public asked many interesting questions during the audience Q&A that went into a deeper discussion on some of the key topics raised. The discussion which was part of the CGM’s World Today Discussion Series was also proudly featured as an Embracing Diversity Series event, and as a lead up to UCLA Anderson’s Embracing Diversity Week and UCLA’s International Education Week. The World Today Discussion Series engages students in dialogue in an interactive, engaging and enriching discussion format around current global issues that transcend borders. Through the series, the CGM engages globally minded students with issues that matter and ideas that stimulate. Through balanced discourse, the series serves as a neutral forum to educate students on global issues while at the same time encourage debate and examination. UCLA Anderson’s Center for Global Management is committed to providing timely and relevant information about critical global topics and issues that matter to our community and the world.

x
Learn more...
Thursday, November 5, 2020 11:30 AM – 12:30 PM

A Virtual Lunchtime Conversation with Kevin Berryman (’87), President and CFO, Jacobs Engineering Group on “Running a Global Business“

On Thursday, November 5, the Center for Global Management hosted a virtual lunchtime discussion with Kevin Berryman (’87), an alumnus of the FEMBA program and member of the CGM’s advisory board. As president and CFO of Jacobs Engineering Group, Inc., one of the world’s largest and most diverse providers of technical professional services with operations around the globe, Berryman oversees Jacobs digital and information technology and all aspects of corporate finance and treasury, investor relations and communications, strategy, M&A and internal audit. Students from the full-time, fully employed and executive MBA programs, interested in global management and business, including members of the Strategy and Operations Management Association and Investment Finance Association joined the informal and interactive lunchtime session to meet and hear from Berryman, a native of California who has enjoyed an extremely successful global career. Berryman provided insights on what is it like to run a global business with distributed operations in the midst of complex and changing economic, political and cultural environments in the U.S. and globally and in the midst of a global pandemic. He discussed his career trajectory post the UCLA Anderson FEMBA program, the different functional roles he has served in and his experience transitioning and transferring industries from Nestlé in Switzerland to Jacobs Engineering in Dallas today. He also addressed the importance of inclusion, diversity of thought and authenticity and being proactive, thoughtful and purposeful in developing a global perspective. He shared that despite the many challenges of COVID-19, the pandemic has highlighted how great people are and how increasingly important it is to understand and leverage talent. As students think about their own careers, he touched on the importance of understanding people and value creation and thinking not just vertically, but also horizontally to better understand different facets of a business and its operations. Prior to Jacobs, Berryman served as executive vice president and CFO at International Flavors and Fragrances Inc., an S&P 500 company and global creator of flavors and fragrances used in a wide variety of consumer products after spending 25 years at Nestlé where he held various financial and operational positions both in the U.S. and at its global headquarters in Switzerland.

x
Learn more...
Monday, November 2, 2020 6:00 – 7:30 PM

Global Business and Policy Forum on “Contract Law and the Challenge of COVID-19: A Global Perspective”

The rules governing the formation, interpretation, and enforcement of contracts are generally well-settled in the U.S. and in many other jurisdictions that depend upon international commerce. However, like almost everything else, COVID-19 disrupted the rules and posed new challenges for parties trying to allocate risks and realize benefits through contracts. Although legal doctrines of force majeure, frustration and impracticability are well-established in doctrine, their applications in a specific context, such as Covid-19, are often uncertain. On Monday, November 2, the UCLA Anderson Center for Global Management and UCLA School of Law’s Lowell Milken Institute for Business Law and Policy hosted their inaugural global and business policy forum of the academic year in a virtual interactive discussion format. Gonzalo Freixes, associate dean and adjunct professor of accounting, law and international business and Tim Malloy, professor of law and the Frank G. Wells Endowed Chair in Environmental Law addressed the business and legal issues facing parties to contracts in which COVID-19 has possibly affected the parties’ performance under the contract. They examined how different jurisdictions globally approach the problem and provided guidance on how contracting parties can try to protect the benefits of a contract or excuse performance in the face of a global pandemic. During his discussion that provided a more global perspective on force majeure and risk allocation, Freixes shared insights and reviewed French Law as well as specific measures taken by countries such as Singapore and Germany. Full-time, fully employed and executive MBA students met and networked with JD and LLM students from the UCLA School of Law. In small groups, students discussed two hypotheticals to review force majeure clauses in contracts and returned to the main session to share their thoughts and deliberations on the discussion questions. Joel Feuer, executive director for the Lowell Milken Institute for Business Law and Policy and a professor from practice facilitated the student discussions. Gonzalo Freixes is a professor in the accounting area and serves as associate dean for the fully employed and executive MBA programs. He has been a practicing lawyer for over 40 years. In addition to his administrative duties, Freixes teaches business law, international business law, business ethics, corporate and individual taxation, and real estate law and taxation in the MBA program and in the undergraduate accounting minor. He has lectured in numerous countries in Europe, Latin America and Asia on international business and tax subjects as well as on corporate governance, business ethics, international business law and trial advocacy. Tim Malloy joined the UCLA Law faculty in 1998, after spending a combined 11 years in practice at private firms and at the United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), Region III. He teaches contracts, environmental aspects of business transactions, regulatory lawyering, regulation of the business firm, environmental policy and politics. His research interests focus on environmental, chemical and nanotechnology policy, regulatory policy, and organizational theory and decision analysis, with particular emphasis on the relationship between regulatory design and implementation and the structure of business organizations. The Global Business and Policy Forum is a collaborative partnership between UCLA Anderson’s Center for Global Management and the UCLA School of Law's Lowell Milken Institute for Business Law and Policy.

x
Learn more...
Wednesday, October 28, 2020 5:00 - 6:00 PM

Meet the Graduates Series: A Virtual Evening Conversation with Brittany Blackamore (’16), Management Consultant at BCG and Founder of Suitcase of Joy

On Wednesday, October 28, the Center for Global Management (CGM) hosted the inaugural discussion in its new Meet the Graduates Series with Brittany Blackamore (’16), an alumna of the FEMBA program and a global management specialization graduate. At Anderson, Blackamore’s global experiences expanded her world to new countries, inspired her love of macroeconomics and global finance, deepened her global acumen, and gave her the confidence she needed in her career. During an early evening, interactive conversation, Blackamore discussed her time at Anderson and shared thoughts on how to maximize the academic, career, and networking opportunities available. She addressed her career trajectory and some of the choices she made, and provided guidance on how students can maximize the MBA and use it as a launching pad for their career and passions. She also discussed Suitcase of Joy, the value of giving back, and making a sustainable impact. Students from across the full-time and fully employed MBA programs were inspired by Blackamore’s energy, passion and poise and left the discussion with some terrific tangible advice and tips. Prior to joining the FEMBA program, Blackamore worked for Fluor, a global engineering company, as a senior buyer. Through on-campus recruiting, she accepted an offer to join Experian’s MBA leadership development program where she advanced rapidly to become director of strategy. After three successful years at Experian, Blackamore joined the Boston Consulting Group as a management consultant focused on strategy and M&A in the private equity, technology, public sector, and healthcare industries. Her global immersion travels to developing countries inspired her to found her own nonprofit organization, Suitcase of Joy, whose mission is to bring joy and education to underserved children around the world. The discussion, organized by the Center for Global Management, was supported by the Management Consulting Association and Net Impact.

x
Learn more...
Tuesday, October 27, 2020 11:30 AM – 12:30 PM

A Virtual Lunchtime Conversation with Jon Niermann (’95), President and CEO, Loop Media, Inc. on “Global Media and Entertainment and Its Changing Landscape”

On Tuesday, October 27, the Center for Global Management hosted a virtual lunchtime discussion with Jon Niermann (’95), an alumnus of the FEMBA program and member of the CGM’s advisory board. During his career of over 30 years, Niermann has achieved success on both the corporate and entrepreneurial business worlds. He built his entertainment career with The Walt Disney Company and Electronic Arts, serving as president of both company's Asian operations, prior to starting his own media companies. Niermann started FarWest Entertainment (2010), a multi-platform (television, music, animation, digital) media and entertainment company that focused on bridging Asia with the West; and Loop Media, Inc. (founded in 2016 and went public in 2020), the first media company focused on fully integrated 360-degree engagement of music videos and other premium short-form content by consumers and businesses. The luncheon provided an opportunity for interested MBA students to meet with Niemann in an informal and interactive setting and hear about his successful career trajectory post-Anderson. He shared his thoughts and insights on the global media and entertainment landscape in light of the digital revolution, as well as his experiences working on the business and creative sides of large companies and then venturing into the entrepreneurial world full-time with his own media companies. He also addressed the implications and some lasting impacts for the industry, in the short and longer terms as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic and the pivot that Loop Media had to quickly made. The discussion, organized by the Center for Global Management was supported by the Entertainment Management Association.

x
Learn more...
Wednesday, October 14, 2020 11:30 AM - 12:30 PM

A Virtual Lunchtime Conversation with Lino Abram (’99), Senior Partner, McKinsey & Co. on “A Global Consulting Career and COVID-19: Implications for Businesses Across Latin America”

On Wednesday, October 14, the Center for Global Management and the Latin American Business Association (LABA) hosted a virtual lunchtime discussion with Lima-based UCLA Anderson alumnus Lino Abram (’99), senior partner at McKinsey & Co. who founded the Lima, Peru office where he leads the financial services practice for many Latin American countries. The luncheon provided an opportunity for interested MBA students to meet with Abram in an informal and interactive virtual setting and hear about his successful career trajectory post-Anderson and extensive consulting career with McKinsey & Co. in Latin America and the Caribbean. He shared his thoughts on comparative challenges helping companies do business across the region in light of the digital revolution and limited access to talent and addressed the implications for businesses across the region, in the short and longer terms as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. Over 40 students from the full-time, fully employed and executive MBA programs, including members of LABA, the Management Consulting Association (MCA) and students interested in global management joined the interactive lunchtime session joined to hear Abram share his experiences and insights around recent learnings from COVID-19 and digital transformations. Since joining McKinsey & Co. in 1999, Abram has worked across much of Latin America and the Caribbean. During his 21 years with McKinsey, he has served clients in financial services, private equity, consumer goods, and mining and metals. More recently, he has been leading the assessment of digital transformation of Latin American businesses and how this is changing the consulting services industry. The lunch, organized by the Latin American Business Association in partnership with the Center for Global Management, was supported by the Management Consulting Association.

x
Learn more...
Tuesday, October 13, 2020 5:00 – 6:30 p.m.

Global Immersion Series: Argentina Reunion

Argentina was able to recover relatively quickly from its last major economic crisis, in 2001, thanks to a booming global economy. Unfortunately, the situation is very different today. The Argentine government, that took office last year, imposed one of the strictest quarantines in the region. It was a desperate attempt to control the spread — and one that only partially succeeded. While the swift lockdown doubtless helped save lives — the aggressiveness of the measures may have effects for years to come. Even before the pandemic, Argentina’s economic situation was fairly dire — according to the INDEC national statistics bureau around one third of the country’s population was living in poverty in the second half of 2019 — leaving the country more exposed than most to the impact of lockdown. On Tuesday, October 13, the CGM hosted the seventh reunion in its Global Immersion Series, this time focused on Argentina with Andres Terech, associate adjunct professor of marketing who has led two global immersion courses and one EMBA international business residential to his home country. Terech accompanied his first group to Argentina in the summer of 2014 and then in spring of 2017, led a second group to the country that also visited Uruguay for a course focused on “The Challenges and Opportunities of Doing Business in Latin America.” In September 2018, Terech accompanied a group of EMBA students to Argentina for their International Business Residential, a core requirement of the EMBA program. Alumni reunited and shared personal updates before Terech provided an update on the country from a macro perspective. He was then joined by UCLA Anderson alumnus Juan M. Procaccini (’01), lead partner in the deals advisory practice at PwC in its Buenos Aires office who provided an “on the ground” update on what is happening in Argentina, the economy and political situation and shared his experience on what has happened in the country since the COVID-19 pandemic. He also addressed both challenges and opportunities faced by businesses (large and small) and society under these circumstances and shared his thoughts on what changes he sees organizationally and structurally going forward for the country. Alumni from the full-time, fully employed and executive MBA programs representing the classes of 2015 through 2019 who had enrolled in the three aforementioned courses reunited with classmates and reflected on time spent in Argentina to learn what has changed in the country’s business environment as well as its socio-economic and political landscape since traveling together. The economic crisis consuming the country’s most vulnerable members of society was also addressed as well as the measures that may be needed to save the economy of a country that unfortunately has been in crisis for years. During interactive dialogue with the alumni, questions arose on topics such as climate change, opportunities for investment, Argentina’s strong entrepreneurial and start-up community as well as the country’s movement in fintech initiatives. The event was organized and hosted by the Center for Global Management.

x
Learn more...
Wednesday, September 23, 2020 11:30 AM – 12:30 PM

Leadership: Changing Paradigm Series: Leading with an Adaptive Culture for a Better Future

With the onset of COVID-19 and the emergence of the new business reality, company founders and corporate leaders are experiencing significant disruption of their strategic plans and operations, while trying to fulfill commitments to their employees and communities. Many executives recognize that a strong corporate culture can help to navigate the current crisis while positioning their companies for future success. However, even cultures that are strategically aligned need to be adaptive to allow companies to change, innovate and respond to new opportunities. An adaptive culture is among a company’s most powerful tools for creating a competitive advantage. During this current period of disruption resulting from COVID-19, the economic downturn and the social justice movement, those companies with a strong culture have been better positioned to rapidly adapt to the new reality. On September 23, in collaboration with HARRT at UCLA, the Centers@Anderson hosted a moderated conversation with Morley Builders’ president Charles Muttillo and Megan Sutton, Morley’s vice president of human resources. Morley Builders was founded on the values of integrity, honesty, respect for others and ethical behavior. Over its more than 70-year history, it has significantly expanded its business and moved from a family-owned residential contracting company to become one of the top commercial builders in Southern California, with several iconic buildings in Los Angeles, including many at UCLA. The discussion, moderated by UCLA Anderson Professor Corinne Bendersky, faculty director of HARRT addressed how Morley has experienced significant growth while adapting its culture under Muttillo’s leadership, and how today, as an award-winning 100% employee-owned company, they enjoy a reputation as a “best place to work” in Los Angeles. Muttillo and Sutton also shared how throughout the company's history, it has preserved the values established by its founder, while adapting its culture to meet the changing needs of customers, employees and the community and explained how its strong company culture has contributed to their customer satisfaction, employee engagement and response to the pandemic crisis. The audience included students, faculty, alumni and board members from UCLA Anderson as well as members of HARRT and the general community. During audience Q&A, panelists addressed many questions, including how Morley has managed to instill and promote collaboration, group thinking and innovation in the online world and how its leadership team has stayed motivated and avoided burn out during the pandemic. This discussion was a collaboration among the Centers of UCLA Anderson and HARRT (the Human Resources Round Table) at UCLA. UCLA Anderson Dean Tony Bernardo provided opening remarks.

x
Learn more...
Thursday, September 17, 2020 6:00 – 7:30 PM

Global Immersion Series: Southeast Asia Reunion

Despite high rates of poverty and weak healthcare systems in many countries in the Southeast Asia region, relatively few deaths have been recorded from the virus. Southeast Asian governments have mobilized public and private resources to control community spread. Voluntary social distancing measures were introduced, as well as more aggressive lockdowns and quarantines. The countries also have displayed impressive levels of transparency about COVID-19. Many governments have also worked to ensure that their coronavirus response measures impose minimal financial costs on their populations—critical moves to getting broad public buy-in. However, each country has faced trade-offs between the immediate need to manage the pandemic and the socioeconomic costs of doing so. On Thursday, September 18, the CGM hosted the sixth reunion discussion in its Global Immersion Series, this time focused on the dynamic Southeast Asia region. Professor Jerry Nickelsburg, adjunct full professor and director of the UCLA Anderson Forecast reunited with alumni and students from the full-time, FEMBA, EMBA and UCLA-NUS EMBA classes of 2015, 2017, 2018, 2020 and 2021. These alumni and students had joined Professor Nickelsburg for one of his three courses focused on the region. In 2013, during his first course, students learned about international business at the confluence of Western, Chinese and Islamic economies through visits to Malaysia and Singapore. Three years later, his second course analyzed business in emerging markets with a particular emphasis on, and travel to Thailand and Myanmar; and most recently, in the winter of 2019 for one of the final courses before the pandemic, in December students visited Singapore and Thailand to learn about business and the new dynamics of international trade.

Following some introductions by alumni participants, Professor Nickelsburg provided a brief update on the southeast Asia region. He was then joined live by UCLA-NUS EMBA alumnus Ryan Tan (’19), COO of D’Crypt in Singapore, who facilitated many of the recent visits and speakers for the December 2019 course; and Ricardo Ortiz, ASEAN specialist and foreign policy analyst in Bangkok, who spoke about the political landscape in Bangkok during the most recent visit. Tan and Ortiz provided on-the-ground updates on what is happening in Singapore, Thailand and the Southeast Asia region more broadly with respect to COVID-19, the economy, social landscape and political climate and shared their experiences with how their two countries have responded and handled the pandemic and how they foresee the pandemic shaping Southeast Asia’s economic future. During interactive dialogue with the alumni and student participants, they also addressed some of the economic and social challenges that both countries face, including some of the issues that have been brought to the forefront by the pandemic. For example, the social debate on the rights of migrant workers in Singapore, the devastating hit to Singapore’s open and trade-dependent economy and resulting economic impact, the effect the pandemic has had on Thailand’s vital tourism industry, and the “youthquake” that is currently being witnessed in Bangkok as the young people in the country are raising their voices through social media. The event was organized and hosted by the Center for Global Management.

x
Learn more...
Wednesday, September 9, 2020 5:00 – 6:00 PM

Leadership: Changing Paradigm Series: COVID-19: Leadership Imperatives for Today and Learnings for Tomorrow. A Discussion on Leadership Learnings from the Pandemic with Dr. John C. Mazziotta, CEO, UCLA Health System and Vice Chancellor, UCLA Health Sciences

Few countries have been as severely hit by the pandemic than the United States. With just 4 percent of the world’s population, the U.S. has endured a quarter of its confirmed COVID-19 cases and deaths. As the world grapples with the fear and uncertainty of the pandemic, effective leadership and sharing of best practices at all levels - business, policy and government - becomes more important than ever. On September 9, the Centers@Anderson hosted an extremely insightful conversation with Dr. John C. Mazziotta, vice chancellor of UCLA Health Sciences that has been at the forefront of COVID-19 research and treatment and is positioned to make a transformative and enduring impact on this global pandemic. Mazziotta addressed where the U.S. stands with COVID-19 today and provided a holistic view across healthcare providers, medical schools, industry and government. During the discussion, that was moderated by Professor Terry Kramer, Dr. Mazziotta examined the role of public health, data and science and discussed leadership learnings around decision-making and how the U.S. could have more effectively harnessed its resources, including technology and human resources in fighting the pandemic. Mazziotta also shared his longer term views on how leadership will likely change in the future and ultimately how technology will fundamentally change the delivery and outcomes in healthcare, globally.

The global audience included over 500 students, faculty, alumni and board members from the UCLA Anderson School of Management and UCLA Health/UCLA David Geffen School of Medicine as well as members of the extended UCLA community, including the UCLA Fielding School of Public Health, Luskin School of Public Affairs, School of Law and Henry Samueli School of Engineering, and members of the general public. Some of the key takeaways from the discussion which touched on a number of complex public health and leadership issues were summarized by Professor Kramer. First, that the COVID-19 situation is a manageable issue but you have to respect the science as part of the solution. Technology is also key and has a big role to play, for example in access for underserved communities, in access for ongoing healthcare and for better outcomes. Mazziotta said: “From this day forward, medicine will never be the same again and we are going to see everything change, including how we work together, health systems, government regulations, as well as electronic and technological advances.” One of the great lessons that Mazziotta has learned is how responsive, collaborative, and committed the whole society becomes during a time of this kind of crisis. He added that he has been extremely impressed by society’s willingness, openness and generosity and also by the commitment, dedication and courage of the people that work for the UCLA Health System. We thank Dr. Mazziotta for his compassionate leadership and for all the vitally important work that he and his colleagues at UCLA Health are doing. This discussion was a collaboration among the Centers at Anderson and UCLA Health and the UCLA David Geffen School of Medicine. UCLA Anderson Dean Tony Bernardo provided opening remarks.

About the Leadership: Changing Paradigm Series.
In a global environment of greater opportunities and challenges, with greater demands on leaders, businesses and society, new leadership paradigms must be assessed and acted on to ensure future success. This series will address leadership imperatives for today and learnings for tomorrow with general themes about the growing interdisciplinary nature of leadership, a changing paradigm for decision making and a more expansive view on the role of stakeholders including employees, government and society in addition to shareholders. Attendees of these events should come away with an enhanced understanding of leadership that will serve them longer-term contextualized with today’s issues and opportunities. The series is a collaboration between the Centers of UCLA Anderson.

x
Learn more...
Tuesday, August 18, 2020 6:00 – 7:30 PM

Global Immersion Series: Vietnam Reunion

On Tuesday, August 18, the CGM hosted the fifth event in its Global Immersion Series, focused on Vietnam. Professor George Abe (B.A. ’69, M.S. ’71), adjunct assistant professor of entrepreneurship reunited with alumni from the full-time, FEMBA and EMBA classes of 2012, 2013, 2016, 2017, 2019 and 2020. These alumni had joined Professor Abe and visited Ho Chi Minh City and Hanoi first back in 2011 with the initial iteration of the global immersion courses, which were formerly known as “International Studies” and run through Anderson’s ProMBA office. In 2016, the courses fully transitioned to the Center for Global Management and were renamed “Global Immersion.” These courses are now available to students in all four of Anderson’s MBA programs. Two subsequent groups visited Vietnam. Once in December 2015 and more recently in December 2018. The focus of the most recent course shifted away from the general doing business in southeast Asia and Vietnam focus to concentrate more specifically on entrepreneurship in developing countries, with a focus on Vietnam.

Up until a new strain recently emerged, Vietnam had been praised for keeping COVID-19 cases low and even avoided any COVID-19 deaths. Its early success has been attributed to a well-developed public health system, a strong central government, and a proactive containment strategy based on comprehensive testing, tracing and quarantining, and ensuring consistent messages while enforcing regulations stringently. While certain aspects of Vietnam’s response to COVID-19 may not be replicable in other countries, its experience with past epidemics encouraged citizens to take significant steps to slow the spread of the virus. Most businesses returned to normal a couple of months ago and the country has won the hearts and minds of its people and received accolades from around the globe. Following some introductions by alumni participants, Professor Abe provided a brief update on the COVID-19 situation in Vietnam, compared to other countries around the world. He was then joined by EMBA alumnus and entrepreneur, Calvin Lam (’01), whom all three classes met and heard from in Vietnam and who runs successful businesses in the country across various sectors, including women’s apparel, forestry and food and beverage. Lam provided an “on the ground” update on what is happening in Vietnam with COVID-19, the economy, the political situation and shared his experience on how the country aggressively and successfully handled the pandemic. He also addressed both challenges and opportunities faced by business under these circumstances, in particular manufacturing - and how business leaders have had to adapt. He shared his thoughts on what changes he sees organizationally and structurally going forward, lessons from Vietnam’s successful early detection and containment strategy and explained why the country is particularly suited to mobilizing resources and implementing public health strategies. The event was organized and hosted by the Center for Global Management.

x
Learn more...
Thursday, August 13, 2020 5:00 – 6:30 PM

Leadership: Changing Paradigms Series: COVID-19: What Have We Learned from Other Nations? A Discussion on Where Should We Import Leadership Learnings and What are the Key Enablers?

The COVID-19 pandemic has created a massive humanitarian challenge and is affecting every aspect of global society and civilization. A variety of enablers – or lack thereof – have driven notably different outcomes dealing with the COVID-19 pandemic including the use of technology, the role of the state, cultural norms and public health capabilities. While the epidemiological aspects and economic consequences of the pandemic have been frequently discussed, there has been much less attention paid to these key enablers. Recently, McKinsey has conducted interesting research about a unique use of technology and the state in Asia in addressing COVID-19. Europe also offers some interesting insights. The challenges in developing effective strategies to combat COVID-19 highlight the critical and changing role of leadership. As the world transitions into the next stage of the global pandemic, now is the time to reflect on which countries handled the initial outbreak response better than others and what lessons can be learned. In a globalized world fighting a virus that does not respect borders, it is imperative to examine best practices and review experiences in fighting this common enemy.

On August 13, the Centers@UCLA Anderson hosted a broad and deep moderated conversation that covered politics, economics, national issues and global issues – all contextualized in fighting the COVID-19 pandemic. Panelists included Dr. Robert Kim-Farley, who holds joint appointments in the departments of epidemiology and community health sciences at the UCLA Fielding School of Public Health; Chandran Nair, founder and CEO of the Global Institute for Tomorrow, an independent pan-Asian think tank focused on advancing a deeper understanding of global issues including the shift of economic and political influence from the West to Asia and the dynamic relationship between business and society; and Jeongmin Seong, partner and Lily Ma, rotational fellow at the McKinsey Global Institute in Shanghai and authors of MGI’s “ How Technology is Safeguarding Health and Livelihoods in Asia” that highlights the steps that Asia has taken to deal with the COVID-19 pandemic. The discussion was moderated by Professor Terry Kramer, adjunct professor and faculty director of the Easton Technology Management Center. Panelists gathered virtually to analyze what lessons can be learned for the United States and its leaders – business leaders, elected officials, policymakers - from Asia and other countries such as New Zealand about decision-making; the role of government and public health institutions versus business; power of collaboration and innovation; and the broad usefulness and effectiveness of digital technologies and the practical issues of compliance – again, all contextualized in fighting the COVID-19 pandemic.

The global audience included around 300 students, faculty and alumni from the UCLA Anderson School of Management and the UCLA Fielding School of Public Health as well as members of the extended UCLA community including the UCLA Luskin School of Public Affairs, David Geffen School of Medicine, School of Law and Henry Samueli School of Engineering, and general public. The audience Q&A touched on issues of data privacy; U.S. “exceptionalism;” how nations can establish a global approach to collecting and sharing data in particular around COVID-19; and what societal tools or government programs/policies are needed in the U.S. to better incentive people to collectively incorporate and adhere to COVID protocols. There were many key takeaways from the discussion that Professor Kramer succinctly summarized at the end. His final takeaway was on the outlook going forward and that these issues are global issues and not national issues. This isn’t about a rank order of countries and how well they are doing. As time goes on, these big looming threats and opportunities are global ones and either we are going to work together and get a better outcome or we are all going to suffer. This reiterated the importance around learning about the world (and best practices from other nations). The discussion was a collaboration between the Centers at UCLA Anderson and the UCLA Fielding School of Public Health. UCLA Anderson Dean Tony Bernardo provided opening remarks.

About the Leadership: Changing Paradigm Series.
In a global environment of greater opportunities and challenges, with greater demands on leaders, businesses and society, new leadership paradigms must be assessed and acted on to ensure future success. This series will address leadership imperatives for today and learnings for tomorrow with general themes about the growing interdisciplinary nature of leadership, a changing paradigm for decision making and a more expansive view on the role of stakeholders including employees, government and society in addition to shareholders. Attendees of these events should come away with an enhanced understanding of leadership that will serve them longer-term contextualized with today’s issues and opportunities. The series is a collaboration between the Centers of UCLA Anderson.

x
Learn more...
Wednesday, August 12, 2020 5:00 – 6:30 PM

Global Immersion Series: South Africa Reunion

On Wednesday, August 12, the CGM hosted the fourth event in its Global Immersion Series, focused on South Africa. Professor Gayle Northrop, continuing lecturer at Anderson reunited with around 40 alumni from the full-time and FEMBA classes of 2017, 2018, 2019 and 2020. These alumni had joined Northrop and the CGM and visited Johannesburg and Cape Town in September 2016 and 2018 for the CGM’s global immersion course to learn about social innovation and social entrepreneurship in the country. During the reunion, alumni reconnected with classmates; reflected on time spent in South Africa; and learned what has changed in the country’s social enterprise landscape, plus what has happened in the country since the COVID-19 pandemic. While South Africa’s initial response to the virus was widely praised, confidence in the government’s handling of the crisis has wavered. The country has become the worst-affected in Africa and the 5th highest in total cases worldwide. As students learned in class, the southernmost country on the African continent is one of the most unequal societies in the world with one of the highest consistent Gini coefficients. Poverty and unemployment remain at consistently high levels, with the pandemic putting even greater pressure on the country’s already strained health system. Overcrowded living conditions in low income townships make physical distancing difficult, clean water is not always available for hand-washing, and people are forced to travel in overcrowded public transportation. The session touched on these and other factors affecting South Africa today and into the future.

Following some introductions, Professor Northrop who also is senior advisor at the Bertha Centre for Social Innovation and Entrepreneurship at the University of Cape Town (UCT) Graduate School of Business (GSB), opened with an update on what has been happening in South Africa. She shared some statistics as she addressed the economy, politics and the impact of COVID-19. Professor Northrop was joined live from South Africa by Ian Calvert, formerly with Red Bull Amaphiko and now founder of FURTHER, whom students met in Cape Town and Laurie Bruns, senior Africa regional director for the UCLA Global Health Institute. They provided an “on the ground” update on what is happening in South Africa today with COVID-19, the economy, political situation and in particular, the social entrepreneurship and social innovation landscape. The discussion touched on some of the many challenges faced by social enterprises today, how social entrepreneurs have had to adapt, and why the country’s unique history and circumstances affect its response to the pandemic. Calvert addressed the status and importance of social enterprises in South Africa and shared some examples and updates of social entrepreneurs who students had met in-country and the exciting new enterprises they are now involved with. Bruns added her perspective on health trends and health system challenges. It was a wonderful evening and the engagement of alumni was a clear indication of the long lasting impact this particular global immersion had on each and everyone who participated. The event was organized and hosted by the Center for Global Management.

x
Learn more...
Monday, August 3, 2020 5:00 – 6:00 PM

Leadership: Changing Paradigms Series: The Dynamic Role of Technology, Business and Government in Society: A Discussion on How to Ensure the Right Outcomes with Congressman Ro Khanna, serving California’s 17th Congressional District in the heart of Silicon Valley

There is an increasing focus on the use of technology-based innovations as a means to help address the societal issues in areas such as healthcare, transportation and education; and at the same time there is a growing "tech-lash" in areas such as the digital divide, the future of work, anti-trust and data privacy. On Monday, August 3, the Centers@UCLA Anderson hosted a conversation with Congressman Ro Khanna who represents the 17th Congressional District in the heart of Silicon Valley on the role of leaders in both business and government in this environment and how this relationship is changing. Ultimately gaining a better understanding as to whether the role of government should increase in the face of growing societal issues and/or whether the role of a CEO should expand in serving a variety of constituents including shareholders, employees and society more broadly.

Khanna’s unique role in Congress operates at the very epicenter or vortex of colliding issues about the role of technology, the role of government and how to achieve beneficial outcomes for society amidst a highly polarized environment. During the conversation, moderated by Professor Terry Kramer, adjunct professor and faculty director of the Easton Technology Management Center, Khanna shared his views on the state of technology today, the most promising areas of innovation and its role in society. He also addressed the role of technology in broader societal issues today, including COVID-19 and racial injustices and discussed issues of data privacy, anti-trust, the digital divide and future of work. Later in the conversation, on a more personal leadership basis, he shared how he balances what appears to be a highly divergent set of positions and as both a “hybrid business person” and elected official, how he has balanced his own perspective and actions amidst these often differing and conflicting roles. Khanna concluded by saying that he believes “technology is transforming every aspect of our economy and underneath every aspect of society and the need to understand it, the need to be able to shape it and the need to be able to thoughtfully regulate it are some the biggest questions of 21st Century governance… and we need thoughtful voices to help guide us.” The global audience which comprised around 300 students as well as alumni, faculty and staff from UCLA Anderson, members of the extended UCLA community including the Luskin School of Public Affairs and the Henry Samueli School of Engineering, and general public asked many interesting questions during the audience Q&A that went into a deeper discussion on some of the valuable messages and key views shared, including data privacy, issues of anti-trust and the need to deal with a growing digital and income divide. Khanna was elected to his first term in Congress in 2016 and has stood at the vanguard of national progressive politics. He has remained committed to bipartisan problem-solving in Washington, passing two bills into law during his first term. Khanna has also worked for greater government transparency. As a part of the House Armed Services Committee, he has fought back against special interests and their monopolistic behavior, tackling private companies that gauge from the defense budget and increase the cost of national security, and has championed greater government investment in technology and R&D on the House Budget Committee. Khanna has worked to spread Silicon Valley jobs nationally to areas of the country left behind during the digital revolution, and has introduced multiple articles of legislation to bring jobs to economically disadvantaged communities across the country. The discussion was a collaboration between the Centers at UCLA Anderson and the UCLA Luskin Global Public Affairs. UCLA Anderson Dean Tony Bernardo provided opening remarks.

About the Leadership: Changing Paradigm Series.
In a global environment of greater opportunities and challenges, with greater demands on leaders, businesses and society, new leadership paradigms must be assessed and acted on to ensure future success. This series will address leadership imperatives for today and learnings for tomorrow with general themes about the growing interdisciplinary nature of leadership, a changing paradigm for decision making and a more expansive view on the role of stakeholders including employees, government and society in addition to shareholders. Attendees of these events should come away with an enhanced understanding of leadership that will serve them longer-term contextualized with today’s issues and opportunities. The series is a collaboration between the Centers of UCLA Anderson.

x
Learn more...
Friday, July 31, 2020 7:30 – 9:00 PM

Global Immersion Series: India Reunion

On Friday, July 31, the Center for Global Management hosted the third event in its Global Immersion Series, focused on India. Professor Romain Wacziarg, Hans Hufschmid Chair in Management and professor of economics reunited with around 25 alumni and current students from the full-time, fully employed, executive and UCLA-NUS executive MBA classes of 2018, 2019, 2020 and 2021 who had enrolled in the CGM’s global immersion courses and traveled to Delhi and Mumbai in December 2017 and to Mumbai and Hyderabad in December 2019. Both groups were accompanied to India by Professor Wacziarg where they learned about the country’s business environment. During the 90-minute interactive session, alumni reconnected with classmates; reflected on time spent in India; and learned what has changed in the country’s business environment as well as its socio-economic and political landscape since traveling together as well as what has happened in the country since the COVID-19 pandemic. India’s pandemic preparedness and policy response has varied across states – with big differences among states and little convergence. The economic fallout from the lockdown has been massive and unprecedented. The 14-week suspension of operations has affected different sectors and regions differently, but most organizations face massive challenges to regain economic momentum. The pandemic has so far claimed more than 25,000 lives in India. Relative to population, India’s numbers are still low, but the steep rise in absolute numbers risks overwhelming the healthcare system, and triggering more restrictions that are already hampering economic recovery.

Professor Wacziarg opened with an extremely informative introduction on both the COVID situation in India as well as the economic situation. He explained that the country was already slowing down prior to the pandemic and the March 24 lockdown had forced many workers to seek a return to their villages of origin. He touched on the daily new cases, regional variation and the comparison of India vis-à-vis other countries. He also addressed the aggravating factors including high population density, poor health and sanitary infrastructure, poverty and pollution as well as the limits to state capacity to conduct test and trace policies. Professor Wacziarg was joined live from India by UCLA Anderson alumnus Abhishek Agarwal (’10) who the alumni also had met in India. Agarwal is co-founder and CEO at CreditVidya, a leading player in the alternative credit scoring space in India that leverages alternative data, AI and machine learning to facilitate institutional credit for the underserved. He provided an “on the ground” update on what is happening in India with COVID-19 and shared his experience on how the country has responded and handled the pandemic. The discussion addressed the challenges faced by business under these circumstances, in particular the consumer finance sector – a sector where it is easy to grasp the effects of the pandemic - and how business leaders have had to adapt. He also provided insights on some of the realities in the country and challenges India faces now and going forward. Professor Wacziarg also touched on the geopolitical situation too and the relationship between the United States and India. It was a very interactive session and alumni posed many thought provoking questions to better understand tand appreciate he situation in India as well as the country’s response. The event was organized and hosted by the Center for Global Management.

x
Learn more...
Tuesday, July 28, 2020 5:00 – 6:30 PM

Global Immersion Series: Chile Reunion

On Tuesday, July 28, the Center for Global Management hosted the second event in its Global Immersion Series. Professor Sebastian Edwards, Henry Ford II Chair in International Management reunited with around 25 alumni from the full-time and fully employed MBA classes of 2016, 2017, 2019 and 2020. During their time at Anderson, the alumni had enrolled in the CGM’s global immersion courses and traveled to Santiago, Chile (December 2015 and December 2018) with Professor Edwards to learn about the economic environment and business opportunities in the country. During the 90-minute interactive session, alumni reconnected with classmates; reflected on time spent in Chile; and learned what has changed in the country’s business environment as well as its socio-economic and political landscape since traveling together as well as what has happened in the country since the COVID-19 pandemic. Chile is a rich country, with a life expectancy higher than the U.S., a solid modern health care system and a government that was quick to respond. While Chile looked as though it was well prepared to deal with the pandemic, the country now has one of the highest per capita infection rates of any major country. So how did COVID-19 come to spread so rapidly in wealthy, well-prepared Chile? Following a 30-minute discussion on recent events in the country, Professor Edwards was then joined by special guest, Manola Sanchez who zoomed in from Chile and had addressed the class in Santiago in 2018. Sanchez is former dean of UAI Business School and now serves on the board of Bci. She was the first Chilean woman to obtain an MBA from Harvard Business School. Sanchez provided an on the ground update on what is happening in the country with businesses and also with families and how the country has responded and handled the pandemic. She also shared her own experiences from both a professional and personal perspective too. The evening also addressed how the virus has exploited cracks in Chilean society and what changes may be ahead organizationally and structurally for the country. The event was organized and hosted by the Center for Global Management.

x
Learn more...
Monday, July 20, 2020 5:00 – 6:30 PM

Virtual Dinner Discussion World Today Discussion Series: "The U.S.-China Divorce:
A Discussion on Why Rather than Decouple the United States and China Must Find Ways to Coexist"

Economically, the United States and China have been coupling up for decades and became the world’s biggest trading partners in 2014. Their economies are highly intertwined. But now, amid trade and technology wars, a global pandemic and strained diplomatic relations, judging from the White House’s recent actions, it wants to decouple the U.S. from China – economically, technologically, geopolitically and financially. However, the connections between these giant markets took decades to build and breaking up may be hard to do. A divorce will likely involve deep and wide collateral damage, affecting U.S. corporate interests with long-term ambitions in a country with advantages that are likely to sustain its position as the world’s main factory -- mature supply chains, a massive market, well-built infrastructure and skilled labor. A seismic decoupling will also negatively affect the economies of many other countries. The U.S. will need a plan.

On Monday, July 20, the Center for Global Management hosted a moderated conversation with Chris Tang, distinguished professor and Edward W. Carter Chair in Business Administration and a highly respected authority on global supply chains and Christine Loh, UCLA Anderson visiting professor and former minister in the Hong Kong SAR Government. Tang and Loh discussed why a decoupling after 40 years of mutually beneficial relations is a lose-lose situation. They explored steps that need to be considered, including a rethinking of the global supply chain, and discussed issues of trade, finance and technology as part of global shifts as a result of the decoupling and the COVID-19 pandemic. Do U.S. businesses support the U.S. strategy? Could a new era of Sino-U.S. relations be built on cooperation, starting with joint development of a COVID-19 vaccine? Could there be a mutually beneficial 5G “coopetition” that involves not only Chinese and U.S. companies, but also firms from other countries? Loh and Tang addressed many questions and analyzed why rather than a decoupling, China and the U.S. must find ways to coexist and overcome their differences, build mutual trust, and work constructively to uphold a stable and peaceful international order. The conversation was moderated by Professor Sebastian Edwards, faculty director of the CGM. The global audience which comprised over 200 enrolled and admitted students as well as alumni, faculty, staff, members of the extended UCLA community and general public asked many interesting questions during the audience Q&A that went into a deeper discussion on some of the key topics raised, including what a Biden administration could mean for the relationship between the world’s two superpowers. The World Today Discussion Series engages students in dialogue in an interactive, engaging and enriching discussion format around current global issues that transcend borders. Through the series, the CGM engages globally minded students with issues that matter and ideas that stimulate. Through balanced discourse, the series serves as a neutral forum to educate students on global issues while at the same time encourage debate and examination. UCLA Anderson’s Center for Global Management is committed to providing timely and relevant information about critical global topics and issues that matter to our community and the world.

x
Learn more...
Wednesday, July 15, 2020 5:00 – 6:30 PM

Global Immersion Series: Colombia Reunion

On Wednesday, July 15, the Center for Global Management and Professor Gonzalo Freixes, associate dean of the FEMBA and EMBA programs reunited with around 40 alumni for the inaugural reunion event in the CGM’s new Global Immersion Series. During their time as students, the alumni participants from the full-time, fully employed and executive MBA programs classes of 2017, 2018, 2019 and 2020 had enrolled in the CGM’s global immersion courses and traveled to Bogota and Cartagena (December 2016) and Bogota and Medellin (March 2019) with Professor Freixes to learn about the transformation of Colombia and its economy. During the 90-minute interactive session, the alumni reconnected with classmates; reflected on time spent in Colombia; and learned what has changed in the country’s business environment as well as its socio-economic and political landscape since traveling together as well as what has happened in the country since the COVID-19 pandemic. Colombia and Medellin in particular have emerged as COVID-19 pioneers and have been able to keep their numbers low compared to their neighbors. Dean Freixes was joined by UCLA Anderson alumni brothers Igal Jinich (’95) and Zeev Jinich (’90) who had addressed both groups in Bogota in 2016 and 2019. The brothers who run Ciplas, a third-generation family-owned and operated manufacturing business in Colombia., provided an “on the ground” update on what is happening in Colombia with COVID-19, the economy, the political situation and shared their experiences on how the country has responded and handled the pandemic and how the Colombian people’s reputation for discipline and industriousness will carry them through another difficult chapter in Colombia’s history. They also addressed the challenges they have faced running a manufacturing business under these circumstances and discussed how as business leaders they have had to adapt. The brothers also shared their thoughts on lessons lived and learned and what changes they see organizationally and structurally going forward. The event was organized and hosted by the Center for Global Management.

x
Learn more...
Tuesday, July 14, 2020 11:00 AM

A Livestream Conversation: A Bastille Day Discussion on Emmanuel Macron, France, and Europe’s Place in the World

Is Macron the last staunch leader working to hold the European project together? And what challenges — within France, Europe, and globally — does Macron face in his mission to do so? To address these questions, on Tuesday, July 14, the Los Angeles World Affairs Council & Town Hall hosted a Bastille Day discussion with William Drozdiak, senior fellow at The Brookings Institution’s Center on the United States and Europe and longtime foreign correspondent and John Emerson, Chairman of the American Council on Germany and former U.S. Ambassador to Germany. The discussion also addressed William Drozdiak’s new book, THE LAST PRESIDENT OF EUROPE: Emmanuel Macron's Race to Revive France and Save the World, where Drozdiak argues that Macron is the last staunch leader working to hold the European project together. The book delves into Macron’s plethora of challenges in France and abroad — including Trump’s attacks on NATO and the international order, Merkel’s weakness, Italy’s government of nihilists and satirists, the Gilets Jaunes (Yellow Vests) protesters, the resurgence of anti-Semitism, and the endless turmoil of Brexit. The conversation moved beyond Drozdiak’s book to an in-depth discussion on France-Germany relations, particularly in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic and European Union post-pandemic recovery fund which Drozdiak suggests will broaden to the state of the European Union, and the state of the European continent in relation to the world. The Center for Global Management is a member of the LAWAC & Town Hall and receives special invitations that allow students and faculty to attend its programming and join in the conversations – in-person and virtually. View the recording of the conversation on YouTube.

x
Learn more...
Wednesday, July 1, 2020 11:00 AM

A Livestream Conversation Crisis Leadership: The Road to Recovery

The pandemic and the recent protests and events surrounding George Floyd’s death have challenged organizational leaders in responding to their stakeholders, shareholders and fellow citizens. On Wednesday, July 1, the Los Angeles World Affairs Council & Town Hall hosted a virtual panel discussion on “Crisis Leadership: The Road to Recovery,” moderated by UCLA Anderson’s Corinne Bendersky, professor of management and an expert in workplace conflict, status, justice, and inclusion in teams and organizations. Bendersky was joined by Rochelle Bailis, vice president of marketing at LeaseLock, which announced a partnership with the Resident Relief Foundation, a coalition of leading multi-family organizations to raise $10 million to help residents nationwide struggling to pay their rent because of coronavirus-related job loss of illness; Christine Essel, president and CEO of Southern California Grantmakers, a vibrant community of over 300 philanthropic organizations; and Gregory C. Scott, president and CEO of Community Action Partnership of Orange County, a leading national network championing the war on poverty, racial and economic equity, strengthening families, education and youth development, financial stability, and community and economic development. Panelists shared how their respective organizations are responding to the current crisis and the considerations that they are weighing as they move forward. They addressed the lessons and management strategies that can help chart the journey ahead as state economies reopen and communities engage in conversations about racism, diversity and inclusion. Panelists also discussed the leadership qualities and behaviors that will be valued by institutions and various constituencies and how will creativity, innovation and collaboration will continue to play a role in problem-solving in this new environment. The Center for Global Management is a member of the LAWAC & Town Hall and receives special invitations that allow students and faculty to attend its programming and join in the conversations – in-person and virtually. View the recording of the conversation on YouTube.

x
Learn more...
Wednesday, June 24, 2020 5:00 – 6:30 PM

Virtual Dinner Discussion Global Management Speaker Series:
"Technology Competition with China Starts with Technology Competition at Home:
A Discussion on U.S. Technology Competitiveness with Tom Wheeler, 31st Chair of the Federal Communications Commission (FCC)"

In his recent paper “ Digital Competition with China Starts with Competition at Home,” former FCC chair Tom Wheeler states that at the heart of digital competition – both in the United States and abroad – is data - the capital asset of the 21st century. The sheer scale and richness of China’s data creates an inherent digital advantage when compared to the U.S. To out-innovate China, Wheeler advocates that the U.S. should focus on meaningful competition at home and trust in the “all-American” belief that competition drives innovation. However, he asserts that the digital marketplace in the U.S. is not competitive. While America’s tech giants are innovative, nevertheless they are starving independent innovators of access to the essential data assets required for market competitiveness. He adds that U.S. public policy should explicitly embrace the concept of competition-driven innovation which begins with freeing up the data for others to use. While this does not necessarily mean breaking up the dominant companies, he advocates that it does mean “breaking them open” to unlock the assets needed for competition-driven innovation to thrive in the United States. On Wednesday, June 24, the Center for Global Management and Easton Technology Management Center hosted a moderated conversation with Tom Wheeler who provided a 360-degree view on the state of technology today, including the most promising areas of innovation and how he sees China on a comparative basis to the U.S. in terms of tech-based advances, economic growth and addressing broad societal needs. Wheeler discussed the proposition of his recent paper and described its key elements as well as analyzed the potential risks. During a fascinating and broad reaching moderated conversation, he explained how his proposition can become a reality at a practical level and what would be required from both a legislative as well as industry standpoint to preserve the dynamism of American capitalism while protecting the American consumer. Drawing on lessons learned from other regions of the world, he also shared his national vision for digital policy in the U.S. and his observations on how he sees the role of technology in addressing broader societal issues such as the COVID-19 pandemic. The conversation was moderated by Terry Kramer, adjunct professor and faculty director of the Easton Technology Management Center and Christine Loh, visiting professor and former minister in the Hong Kong SAR Government. The audience, which comprised over 200 current and admitted students as well as alumni, faculty, staff, members of the extended UCLA community and general public asked many though-provoking questions during the audience Q&A around changes needed to the U.S. structure of governing and regulating to meet the challenges and opportunities of big data and the responsibility of U.S.-based tech companies doing business in China. Wheeler shared his thoughts on innovation, leadership and public policy and provided an extremely insightful window into the tech world and his eye-opening proposal about how data should be used, who should own it and how it can create a competitive advantage for the U.S. amidst an increasingly competitive global landscape. The discussion was a collaboration with the UCLA Luskin Global Public Affairs, UCLA Samueli School of Engineering and the UCLA School of Law Lowell Milken Institute for Business Law & Policy.

x
Learn more...
Wednesday, June 24, 2020 11:00 AM

A Livestream Conversation: The Institutional and Global Origins of Inequality on the African Continent

As many Americans have been grappling with racism, police brutality, and systemic inequality domestically, on Wednesday, June 24, the Los Angeles World Affairs Council & Town Hall and the World Trade Center Los Angeles hosted a virtual panel discussion to interrogate racism and racial inequality globally, specifically towards African nations. The conversation was led by Dr. Arikana Chihombori Quao, African Union Ambassador to the U.S. (2016-2019); Ben Murray-Bruce, former Nigerian Senator (2015-2019) and founder of the Silverbird Group; and Grant Harris, CEO of Harris Africa Partners and former senior director for African Affairs at the White House. Panelists discussed the unfair treatment of African Nations by corporations and international institutions. Unequal health outcomes in many African Nations from the COVID-19 pandemic, due to the unequal global allocation of health resources, is just one pressing example of present-day anti-blackness and the legacy of colonialism. The discussion focused on historic and contemporary examples of institutionalized racism towards the continent of Africa within global economic structures and business practices – as these are key modern drivers of anti-black racism and oppression. Senator Murray stated: “Rich people are dying. When rich people die, leaders pay attention to healthcare.” He added: “This is serious business, if we have a pandemic in Africa we will lose half our population….it’s not just a medical problem, it’s also an economic problem. The economy is as important as health.” The conversation was moderated by UCLA alumnus Stephen Cheung (BS ’00, MSW ’07), president of the WTCLA. The Center for Global Management is a member of the LAWAC & Town Hall and receives special invitations that allow students and faculty to attend its programming and join in the conversations – in-person and virtually. View the recording of the conversation on YouTube.

x
Learn more...
Wednesday, June 17, 2020 11:00 AM

A Livestream Conversation Confronting Racism: A Pandemic Within A Pandemic

In the aftermath of the murder of George Floyd by a police officer in Minneapolis, the current moment in the United States has been described as, ‘A Pandemic Within a Pandemic.’ To speak to the recent tragic events and future solutions, on Wednesday, June 17, the Los Angeles World Affairs Council & Town Hall hosted a panel discussion with Los Angeles leaders who addressed the current national conversation on racism, police brutality, and criminal justice reform. They also addressed COVID-19’s disproportionate impact on racial and ethnic minorities and communities, touching on the medical, economic and cultural impact of the COVID-19 crisis — as the pandemic and subsequent shutdown have exposed and reinforced issues of racial and ethnic inequality, discrimination and barriers to healthcare and economic success. Panelists included Michael Lawson, president and CEO of the Los Angeles chapter of the Urban League (LAUL), one of the oldest and most respected civil rights organizations in the United States dedicated to providing economic empowerment, educational opportunities, and the guarantee of civil rights for underserved communities in the Los Angeles area; Helen Torres, president and CEO of Hispanas Organized for Political Equality (HOPE), a nonprofit focused on empowering communities through advocacy, Latina leadership training, and increasing knowledge on the contributions Latinas have made to advance the status of women; and UCLA alumnus Charlie Woo (B.S.’72, M.S. ’75), co-founder and CEO of Center for Asian Americans United for Self-Empowerment (CAUSE) a community-based organization with a mission to advance the political and civic empowerment of the Asian Pacific American (APA) community through nonpartisan voter outreach, training, and education as well as leadership development. The conversation was moderated by Dan Schnur, a professor and lecturer on politics at USC, UC-Berkeley and Pepperdine. Woo suggested: “While unemployment was at an all-time low pre-pandemic, these numbers don’t deliver the full picture. We need to look deeper at statistics, to make sure the ‘rising tide lifts all boats.’’ Torre suggested: " We are not all on the same boat. Some of us are on paddle boats, some canoes, some are on private yachts" and “As leaders we need to pick a place where we can really make a difference, but we also need to hold the whole system accountable.” A key objective of this program was to uplift the changes each respective community is advocating for, as well as the changes they hope to see within the wider Los Angeles community and U.S. to move the nation forward. The Center for Global Management is a member of the LAWAC & Town Hall and receives special invitations that allow students to attend its programming and join in the conversations – in-person and virtually. View the recording of the conversation on YouTube.

x
Learn more...
Tuesday, June 2, 2020 5:00 – 6:30 PM

Virtual Dinner Discussion Special COVID-19 World Today Discussion Series:
"COVID-19 and the Global Race for a Cure: Biotech and Technology Converge on Diagnostics and Treatments"

The recent FDA emergency use authorization of two emerging products - Roche's Elecsys® Anti-SARS-CoV-2 antibody test and Gilead's remdesivir, an antiviral medication that is the first medicine approved to treat COVID-19 - have propelled the world into the next stage of diagnostics and treatment. On Tuesday, June 2, the Center for Global Management (CGM) hosted its tenth virtual discussion in its Special COVID-19 World Today Discussion Series that focused on the global race for a cure and how tech, therapeutics, and diagnostics are converging to address the impact of COVID-19. Jennifer McCaney, assistant professor, UCLA David Geffen School of Medicine and executive director of UCLA Biodesign moderated a fascinating, lively and productive conversation from a clinical, pharmaceutical, and technology perspective. The distinguished group of panelists included Dr. Tom Coates, director of the UC multi-campus Global Health Institute and distinguished research professor of medicine emeritus at the UCLA David Geffen School of Medicine; Dr. Alan Wright, chief medical officer at Roche Diagnostics; Dr. James Rooney, vice president of medical affairs at Gilead Sciences; and James Larus, dean of École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne who has been leading the development of the secure virus contact tracing technology, leveraged by Apple and Google for their mobile applications to help fight the spread of the COVID-19 pandemic.

The discussion examined the origins of COVID-19 and the progress that has been made to understand and combat the novel coronavirus, as well as prevention and mitigation techniques. The recent FDA emergency use authorization of the two aforementioned emerging products have propelled the world into the next stage of diagnostics and treatment. In combination with scientific breakthroughs, the role of privacy preserving proximity tracing technology was also explored as it relates to integration and implementation across geographies and nations. In parallel with digital technologies, the required infrastructure to manufacture and distribute new COVID-19 therapies as it relates to care delivery, population health, and expectations on global landscape was also addressed. Panelists also analyzed key milestones of cumulative scientific and clinical efforts to mobilize a global response to COVID-19; drew scientific parallels with HIV; and discussed how digital technology has emerged as a critical piece of frontline efforts to scale traditional contact tracing across geographies and nations, while still maintaining personal protections of privacy. The audience, which comprised over 300 current and admitted students as well as alumni, faculty, staff, members of the extended UCLA and UC communities and general public asked many interesting questions during the audience Q&A that addressed the three key themes of the discussion: detection, diagnostics and treatment and the complex partnerships required in this fight. Panelists also shared their longer-term views on realistic expectations about when and how the world will reopen and what the effects of preventative measures will have on our post-COVID lives, as well as how the healthcare industry might fundamentally change. The discussion was a collaboration with UCLA Biodesign and the UCLA Anderson Healthcare Business Association. The CGM’s Special COVID-19 World Today Discussion Series aims to engage the community in interactive dialogue around implications of the COVID-19 global pandemic that transcends borders. In this Series, through Zoom presentations and discussions open to the UCLA Anderson community: UCLA and Anderson faculty, alumni, board members and thought leaders share their perspectives on the critical business, policy and socioeconomic issues that affect us all. These are unprecedented times. UCLA Anderson’s Center for Global Management is committed to providing timely and relevant information about critical global topics and issues that matter to our community and the world.

x
Learn more...
Tuesday, June 2, 2020 11:30 AM – 12:30 PM

Virtual Lunch Series with CGM Advisory Board Member and UCLA Anderson Alumnus Brent Nelson Smith (’86), on “Global Investment Banking and Entrepreneurship”

On Tuesday, June 2, the Center for Global Management (CGM) hosted a virtual lunchtime discussion with UCLA Anderson alumnus Brent Nelson Smith ('86), co-founder and managing partner, LevelOne Capital Limited and former global group head of corporate and investment banking at DBS Bank Ltd. Smith, an active and engaged member of the CGM’s advisory board has enjoyed a successful global career with over 30 years of experience across Asia, the U.S. and Australia where he has served in various roles from senior international manager to financial services executive to private investor and strategic advisor. Since 2008, he has served as co-founder and managing partner of LevelOne Capital Ltd., a pan-Asian investment and advisory firm, specialized in startup and mezzanine opportunities in emerging markets with a focus on southeast Asia, particularly Vietnam and Singapore. Smith formerly served as managing director and global group head of corporate and investment banking for DBS Bank, a Singaporean multinational bank and financial services company after spending almost 15 years with JPMorgan & Co., where he was a managing director in the investment banking and mergers and acquisitions groups, and completed assignments in New York, Melbourne, Sydney, Singapore and San Francisco. The luncheon provided an opportunity for interested MBA students to meet Smith in an informal, interactive and small virtual setting and hear his thoughts, insights and experiences. He discussed his career trajectory since graduating from UCLA Anderson in 1986, describing his transition from global investment banker to CFO to venture capitalist to entrepreneur; experience living, working and doing business internationally; the value of geographic diversity; and the importance of cultural sensitivity and international experiences in today’s environment and post COVID-19. He also provided valuable guidance and words of wisdom to students looking to career pivot in the current environment and addressed the importance of persistency and opening yourself up to your network. Smith shared many personal stories and experiences with the students, including mistakes made and lessons learned throughout his career and how he sees globalization changing. He also addressed the importance of family support and finding ways to give back to the community. The lunchtime discussion was organized by the Center for Global Management.

x
Learn more...
Friday, May 29, 2020 11:30 AM – 12:30 PM

Virtual Lunchtime Discussion Special COVID-19 World Today Discussion Series: “COVID-19 and Its Global Impact on Energy Markets and Clean Energy Adoption”

Despite the agreement between the United States, Russia and the Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC) to cut global oil production by 10%, crude futures have plunged. With government-imposed lockdowns, demand for oil is collapsing and despite production cuts, the world is running out of places to store the excess oil. Oil infrastructure is also highly complicated and it will be difficult to quickly fix the problems. On Friday, May 29, the Center for Global Management (CGM) hosted its ninth virtual discussion in its Special COVID-19 World Today Discussion Series in collaboration with the UCLA Anderson Forecast and Energy Management Group. Professor Jerry Nickelsburg, director of the UCLA Anderson Forecast moderated a fascinating and extremely informative discussion with Agnia Grigas, an energy economist and political scientist and senior fellow at the Atlantic Council in Washington D.C.; Tom Georgis (’98), a renewable energy expert and former CEO of SolarReserve; and Jason Lee (’07), lecturer at UCLA Anderson and managing director at Oaktree Capital Management where he is focused on investments in the energy sector. Panelists, who really complemented each other covered a broad range of issues. They examined how COVID-19 and geopolitical forces have contributed to the plunge in oil prices and energy market shifts and shared their longer term views on the potential effects of the OPEC+ agreement; and how cheap oil could influence the global economic recovery, trajectory of clean energy adoption and the carbon economy. They also addressed renewables both in the U.S. as well as in India and China, the intervention of policymakers and shared thoughts on how the green investment boom – including commitments by governments and businesses to combat global climate change – might be impacted by COVID-19 and changes in fossil fuel prices. The audience, which comprised over 120 current, prospective and admitted students as well as alumni, faculty, staff and members of the UCLA community, asked many interesting questions during the audience Q&A that addressed emerging markets, renewables and infrastructure risk. Panelists also encouraged graduating MBAs to look at the energy sector for career opportunities. It is a very interesting, dynamic and fast changing field that combines broader perspective on economics, business, politics and policy and the local, national and global level and provides a broad gamut of opportunity. The CGM’s Special COVID-19 World Today Discussion Series aims to engage the community in interactive dialogue around implications of the COVID-19 global pandemic that transcends borders. In this Series, through Zoom presentations and discussions open to the UCLA Anderson community: UCLA and Anderson faculty, alumni, board members and thought leaders share their perspectives on the critical business, policy and socioeconomic issues that affect us all. These are unprecedented times. UCLA Anderson’s Center for Global Management is committed to providing timely and relevant information about critical global topics and issues that matter to our community and the world.

x
Learn more...
Wednesday, May 27, 2020 5:00 – 6:00 PM

Virtual Dinner Discussion Special COVID-19 World Today Discussion Series: “Helicopter Money and COVID-19”

Authorities around the world are considering various strategies to combat the economic impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. One strategy that has been discussed is “ Helicopter Money. ” The term is named after economist Milton Friedman conducted a thought experiment in the late 1960s about what would happen if the government dropped dollar bills from the sky. Helicopter Money is related to Modern Monetary Theory (MMT), a policy supported by progressives, including Congresswoman Alexandra Ocasio-Cortez and Senator Bernie Sanders. According to MMT central banks should print large amounts of money, and give it to governments. This would directly expand aggregate demand and employment. There would be no need to raise taxes either now or in the future, the argument goes. Moreover, large increases in government debt wouldn’t matter. On Wednesday, May 27, the Center for Global Management (CGM) hosted its eighth virtual discussion in its Special COVID-19 World Today Discussion Series. This time, roles were reversed and Sebastian Edwards, distinguished professor of economics and Henry Ford II Chair in International Management who has typically served as the moderator for discussions in this Series was the guest speaker. He dissected these policy proposals and analyzed their pros and cons as well as their promises and dangers. He also discussed whether doing something along these lines is unavoidable. During an extremely informative presentation, Edwards explained the concept of “Helicopter Money” and how it relates to MMT and examined whether we are already in the path to “Helicopter Money.” He addressed the likely consequences of this kind of policy and looked at inflation, interest rates, valuations and the U.S. dollar. He also reviewed MMT-like policies in Latin America and explained velocity and inflation in Brazil as well as the velocity of money in Chile. Following his presentation, Professor Ed Leamer joined Edwards and moderated a discussion to dig deeper into some of the theories and issues raised. The audience, which comprised over 200 students, alumni, faculty, staff and members of the UCLA community, posed many interesting questions around the issues raised on both a U.S. and global level to further understand inflation, the U.S. debt to GDP ratio as well as the global economic situation and approaches employed in other countries/regions of the world from Chile to Japan to the EU. The CGM’s Special COVID-19 World Today Discussion Series aims to engage the community in interactive dialogue around implications of the COVID-19 global pandemic that transcends borders. In this Series, through Zoom presentations and discussions open to the UCLA Anderson community: UCLA and Anderson faculty, alumni, board members and thought leaders share their perspectives on the critical business, policy and socioeconomic issues that affect us all. These are unprecedented times. UCLA Anderson’s Center for Global Management is committed to providing timely and relevant information about critical global topics and issues that matter to our community and the world.

x
Learn more...
Wednesday, May 20, 2020 11:30 AM – 12:30 PM

Virtual Lunch Series with UCLA Anderson Alumni Alceu Lima ('92) and Marcos de Callis ('92) on “Business and Investment Challenges in Brazil, Latin America and Globally”

On Wednesday, May 20, the Center for Global Management and the Latin American Business Association hosted a virtual lunchtime discussion with two distinguished UCLA Anderson alumni and classmates based in Brazil: Alceu Lima (’92), investor, owner and former president of Barclays Brazil and Marcos de Callis (’92), partner of Hieron Asset Management and Family Office. The luncheon provided an opportunity for interested MBA students to meet with Lima and de Callis in an informal and interactive setting and hear about their successful career trajectories post-Anderson. They also shared their thoughts on the challenges that businesses in Brazil, across the Latin American region, and globally will face in the short and longer-term as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. Around 30 students from the full-time, fully employed and executive MBA programs, including members of LABA and the Investment Finance Association and students who were scheduled to visit Brazil in March for the CGM’s global immersion course joined the interactive lunchtime session. Students posed many interesting questions to hear the experiences, wisdom and insights of Lima and de Callis. Topics included Brazil’s economy and its reaction to the pandemic, how the outbreak is performing differently across various states and across the region, implications on the Brazilian real, and what the post COVID-19 world might look like. Lima spent over 30 years in investment banking with Barclays, Lehman Brothers and Citibank (where he started his career) with significant experience in the Latin America region originating and executing M&A, advisory, equity and debt market transactions for clients in telecom, utilities, financial services, and oil and gas. De Callis began his career in 1987 at Citibank where he worked until 1995. He has held senior positions, including managing superintendent of Votorantim Asset, investment director of Schroders Brasil and HSBC AM Brasil, and vice president of Itaú Corretora. The lunch, organized by the Latin American Business Association in partnership with the Center for Global Management, was supported by the Investment Finance Association.

x
Learn more...
Monday, May 18, 2020 11:30 AM – 12.30 PM

Virtual Lunchtime Discussion Special COVID-19 World Today Discussion Series: “Political Economy Aspects of the COVID-19 Pandemic”

The COVID-19 pandemic will affect every aspect of global society and civilization. While the epidemiological aspects and the economic consequences of the pandemic have been frequently discussed, there has been much less attention paid to the broader social and political effects of COVID-19. How will this momentous event affect the future of globalization, the march of democracy, the incidence of global and local conflicts, and the current realignment of the axes of politics? Shedding light on these complex issues requires a multidisciplinary approach to draw out the lessons of history while remaining sensitive to the specificities of the current situation. On Monday, May 18, the Center for Global Management (CGM) hosted its seventh virtual discussion in its Special COVID-19 World Today Discussion Series with Romain Wacziarg, professor of economics and Hans Hufschmid Chair in Management. Wacziarg borrowed insights from economics, political science and history to analyze the broader effects of the COVID-19 pandemic. He examined the possible impact of the pandemic on U.S.-China relations and electoral outcomes in the U.S. and shared his analysis on the implications for management practices and business opportunities around the world. During a fascinating presentation, Wacziarg analyzed many global issues relating to the pandemic, including retrenchment, democracy, global and local conflict, inequality and poverty as well as government size and suggested that the pandemic comes on the heels of global trends that were already long in the making, and it may exacerbate these trends. He then addressed U.S. politics and the pandemic, including areas such as social conflict and antagonism and suggested that we are seeing political fault lines appear regarding attitudes to the lockdowns and that the pandemic may not be a great uniter, but instead a great divider. He also examined the lockdowns and Trump’s reelection chances. Wacziarg concluded with some key takeaways and suggested that the COVID-19 pandemic will reinforce existing trends of retrenchment from globalization and democracy, rising inequality, populism, and geopolitical uncertainty; and while the economic fallout will hurt incumbents, they will also find ways to exploit aspects of the crisis to their advantage. The big unknown is how long it will take to “get back to normal” after the health threat subsides. Following his presentation, Wacziarg continued the discussion on these topics with Professor Sebastian Edwards. The audience, which comprised over 200 students, alumni, faculty, staff and members of the UCLA community, posed many interesting questions through Slido, the audience interactive tool relating to the issues that his presentation addressed as well as the future of regional trading blocs, politics and gender and the attitudes of the big three players, namely the U.S., China and EU. The CGM’s Special COVID-19 World Today Discussion Series aims to engage the community in interactive dialogue around implications of the COVID-19 global pandemic that transcends borders. In this Series, through Zoom presentations and discussions open to the UCLA Anderson community: UCLA and Anderson faculty, alumni, board members and thought leaders share their perspectives on the critical business, policy and socioeconomic issues that affect us all. These are unprecedented times. UCLA Anderson’s Center for Global Management is committed to providing timely and relevant information about critical global topics and issues that matter to our community and the world.

x
Learn more...
Tuesday, May 12, 2020 11:00 AM

A Livestream Conversation: Author Jim Newton, in Conversation with Jerry Brown, Former Governor of California

On Tuesday, May 12, Jim Newton, author of the new biography “Man of Tomorrow: The Relentless Life of Jerry Brown," sat down with Jerry Brown, former Governor of California for a discussion on his political career and a commentary on protecting the nation’s health and reestablishing its economy during the COVID-19 pandemic. This discussion was produced by the Los Angeles World Affairs Council & Town Hall and WritersBloc Presents Governor Brown also addressed his life governing California, what he learned, what he wished he could have done differently, and advice he has for U.S. Governors now facing the toughest decisions of their political careers. He took questions from livestream participants during the audience Q&A.

While urging everyone that is infected to self-isolate in an effort to curb the spread of the disease, Brown also referenced FDR's New Deal package, which was implemented after The Great Depression, as something similar that could offer a possible means of relief and economic improvement in our current time. He suggested an immediate launch of ambitious infrastructure projects that included reopening hospitals, bringing internet access to rural areas, and building roads & railways, all of which could be staffed through a jobs program that would provide employment to the unemployed.

Looking ahead to the 2020 election, Brown criticized the Trump administration for its response to the COVID-19 pandemic, stating that in his opinion, another four years with the same President would make the situation worse and would lead to a further divided populace. Brown, a longtime Democrat and former Presidential candidate, predicted however that an era of greater national unity lied ahead; as long as the left and right could find compromise on opposing issues. He also spoke about finding a better way to finance higher education in California and how to combat climate change. As the program closed, when asked about fielding a myriad of other global threats, Brown stated: “Life — just to be here and be part of it — is quite a lot. So to worry, to think about down the road how it’s going to turn out? That’s fortune telling. That’s ouija board stuff. Do what you can do in the moment that you have. And God will take care of the rest.”

In his new book, "Man of Tomorrow: The Relentless Life of Jerry Brown," award-winning journalist and bestselling author Jim Newton explores the unconventional arc of Brown’s career: In addition to being the longest serving governor in California history, Brown was a three-time Presidential candidate, a two-term Mayor of Oakland, and the California Attorney General. Newton reveals the complex and often contradictory nature of Jerry Brown’s personality and politics– and how Brown’s leadership stood up to the Trump White House policies on climate change, immigration, and more. Brilliant and sometimes unpredictable, with a steadfast drive to advance a thriving and equitable California, Jerry Brown is a leader whose policies have defined California as the international economic stronghold it has become, as well as a national example of what progressive politics can accomplish.

The Center for Global Management is a member of the LAWAC & Town Hall and receives special invitations that allow students to attend its programming
in-person and virtually.

x
Learn more...
Monday, May 11, 2020 5:00 – 6:00 PM

Virtual Dinner Discussion Special COVID-19 World Today Discussion Series:
“A Rethink on the Global Supply Chain in the Midst of the COVID-19 Pandemic”

As a nation of plenty, Americans are in shock when state governors are pleading the federal government for a greater allocation of emergency stockpiles, and medical professionals are appealing for donations of personal protective equipment (PPE) such as face masks and gloves. While the COVID-19 pandemic has exposed the world’s risky dependence on vulnerable nodes in global supply chains, it has also cast a spotlight on companies that already have flexible production lines. Nimble luxury goods manufacturers in Europe overhauled operations and turned their supply chains to masks and gowns; LVMH’s perfume factories were producing hand sanitizer; and makers of cars and planes started to assemble ventilators and other equipment. Flexible supply chains have played a critical role, including rapid raw material sourcing, product design, development and testing, and distribution. On Monday, May 11, the Center for Global Management (CGM) hosted its sixth virtual discussion in its Special COVID-19 World Today Discussion Series with Chris Tang, distinguished professor and Edward W. Carter Chair in Business Administration and a highly respected authority on global supply chains. Tang explored the root causes to the shortage of PPE in the United States and addressed the current response. He also examined what we can learn from the current crisis and explored whether COVID-19 will be the catalyst that forces many companies, and entire industries, to rethink their global supply chain strategy and manage it in a more resilient manner. Tang also shared his longer term view on whether post COVID-19 local resilience will be prized over global efficiency. Following an extremely engaging and thought-provoking presentation with numerous timely and relevant global examples, Tang continued the conversation with Professor Sebastian Edwards and answered many thoughtful and pertinent questions from an engaged audience which comprised over 500 students, alumni, faculty, staff and members of the extended UCLA and global community. He addressed reshoring and supply chain financing and shared some key ideas for managing supply chain risk including innovations in advanced robotics, 3D printing and blockchain; the role of government and regulations for mission critical products; and the importance of supply chain transparency and identifying, accessing and mitigating supply chain risks. Tang has conducted research on global supply chain for over 30 years and has co-written a book on “Supply Chain Risk Management” and published over 100 articles on this subject. The CGM’s Special COVID-19 World Today Discussion Series aims to engage the community in interactive dialogue around implications of the COVID-19 global pandemic that transcends borders. In this Series, through Zoom presentations and discussions open to the UCLA Anderson community: UCLA and Anderson faculty, alumni, board members and thought leaders share their perspectives on the critical business, policy and socioeconomic issues that affect us all. These are unprecedented times. UCLA Anderson’s Center for Global Management is committed to providing timely and relevant information about critical global topics and issues that matter to our community and the world.

x
Learn more...
Wednesday, May 6, 2020 11:30 AM – 12:30 PM

Virtual Lunchtime Discussion Special COVID-19 World Today Discussion Series: “Lessons from COVID-19: Making Decisions Under Entirely New Circumstances”

Are we in the midst of a global recession? How severe will it be and how long-lasting?What comes next: a return to “normal” or a very different global economy?
Professor Frank Knight published a book in 1921 contrasting decision-making with known probabilities and decision-making with unknown probabilities, what he referred to as “risk and uncertainty.” In a repetitive situation, a study of historical data can inform you of the probabilities, such as using the historical batting averages to choose the pinch-hitter. The government-imposed shutdowns in response to COVID-19 are entirely unprecedented and render automatic reliance on historical data very unwise. How then can we possibly answer the recession questions given the huge amount of risk and uncertainty? On Wednesday, May 6, the Center for Global Management hosted its fifth virtual discussion in its Special COVID-19 World Today Discussion Series to stretch our minds during this period of quiescence. Ed Leamer, distinguished professor, economist and Chauncey J. Medberry Chair in Management Emeritus demonstrated the wisdom of exploratory data analysis with a study of COVID-19 across California’s 58 counties. He examined how much population density contributes to the COVID-19 incidence and what control variables might be employed. He used this context to comment on the statistical theory that MBAs have been taught for settings of known probabilities and the role of machine learning in the settings of unknown probabilities. Leamer also shared his predictions on what will come next and the possible implications for business, investment and the consumer as well as his longer-term view on the global economy and what the new “normal” might look like. Following a fascinating presentation, Leamer continued the conversation with Professor Sebastian Edwards and addressed unemployment, U.S. debt, the Dow Jones, housing markets, education, healthcare and travel, among other areas. He also raised the question of how a pandemic can change society and we should be thinking like a large family would and value not the material success of our family members, but instead how much they contribute to our community. He added, we need a new America where everyone is happy and proud. Now is the time to decide: Should we continue to separate or should we unite? The discussion was co-sponsored by the UCLA Anderson Forecast. Around 300 students, alumni, board members, faculty, staff and members of the extended UCLA community and general public gathered virtually for the fifth event in the CGM’s Special COVID-19 World Today Discussion Series that aims to engage the community in interactive dialogue around implications of the COVID-19 global pandemic that transcends borders. In this Series, through Zoom presentations and discussions open to the UCLA Anderson community: UCLA and Anderson faculty, alumni, board members and thought leaders share their perspectives on the critical business, policy and socioeconomic issues that affect us all. These are unprecedented times. UCLA Anderson’s Center for Global Management is committed to providing timely and relevant information about critical global topics and issues that matter to our community and the world.

x
Learn more...
Tuesday, April 28, 2020 11:30 AM – 12:30 PM

Virtual Lunchtime Discussion Special COVID-19 World Today Discussion Series: “COVID-19 and the Corporate Debt Crisis”

COVID-19 has caused significant disruption in economic activity and surges in volatility in financial markets across the globe. The pandemic also arrived against a backdrop of private sector indebtedness. Corporate leverage is at an all-time high and almost half of all U.S. corporate bonds maturing in the next five years are below investment grade. Policymakers have responded by deploying a variety of measures aimed at stabilizing markets in an effort to avoid a full-blown financial crisis. Current policies will inevitably leave parts of the corporate sector with even larger debt burdens, threatening economic recovery after COVID-19. On Tuesday, April 28, the Center for Global Management hosted the fourth virtual discussion in its Special COVID-19 World Today Discussion Series, co-sponsored by the UCLA Anderson Laurence & Lori Fink Center for Finance. This particular discussion looked at COVID-19 and the corporate debt crisis. Mark Garmaise, professor of finance, who studies corporate finance, venture capital and private equity discussed the dynamics of the bond markets during the ongoing pandemic and analyzed the effects of policymakers’ interventions. He explored the particular forces at work in the leveraged loan and private-equity-backed debt markets and also shared his longer-term views on the likely evolution of debt contracting and the possible role for policy reforms. During his presentation, Garmaise also polled the audience and posed a number of questions to solicit thoughts and opinions on issues such as whether rate cuts and asset purchases look like just another Wall Street bank bailout? During a moderated conversation with Professor Sebastian Edwards, the discussion continued and addressed the role of rating agencies, government bailouts, debt equity swaps, the role of the Fed, as well as other questions that were top of mind of the audience. Garmaise is an award-winning instructor and highly respected authority on finance, venture capital and private equity. He teaches the core corporate finance course and an elective on venture capital and private equity and has been recognized with numerous awards and has published in numerous journals, including the Review of Financial Studies, the Journal of Finance and the Quarterly Journal of Economics. Around 300 students, alumni, board members, faculty and staff gathered virtually for the fourth event in the CGM’s special COVID-19 World Today Discussion Series that aims to engage the community in interactive dialogue around implications of the COVID-19 global pandemic that transcends borders. In this Series, through Zoom presentations and discussions open to the UCLA Anderson community: UCLA and Anderson faculty, alumni, board members and thought leaders will share their perspectives on the critical business, policy and socioeconomic issues that affect us all. These are unprecedented times. UCLA Anderson’s Center for Global Management is committed to providing timely and relevant information about critical global topics and issues that matter to our community and the world. Video is private content and will be available to UCLA Anderson students. For more information, please contact global@anderson.ucla.edu.

x
Learn more...
Wednesday, April 22, 2020 5:00 – 6:00 PM

Virtual Dinner Discussion Special COVID-19 World Today Discussion Series:
“The Pandemic and the Emerging Markets: A View from Wall Street”

Emerging markets are battling a financial crisis as well as a public-health emergency, scrambling to keep their economies afloat as the COVID-19 pandemic deepens. Over 90 countries have approached the IMF for assistance. While many emerging-market economies are in more solid footing than during previous global financial crises, the macro economic outlook remains uncertain given the magnitude of the ongoing shocks. On Wednesday, April 22, the Center for Global Management hosted the third virtual discussion in its Special COVID-19 World Today Discussion Series, co-sponsored by the UCLA Anderson Laurence & Lori Fink Center for Finance. The discussion focused on the pandemic and the emerging markets - a view from Wall Street with special guest Fernando Losada (MA ’92, Ph.D. ’95), Managing Director and Head of Emerging Markets Research, Oppenheimer & Co. Inc. where he works with institutional investors and supports the sales, trading and debt capital markets efforts. Losada discussed how institutional investors are thinking about their exposure to operational disruptions and extreme market dynamics as a result of the pandemic. He examined the various policy responses observed across emerging economies, with a focus on the provision of liquidity under the emergency situation, and analyzed possible outcomes of those strategies. During his presentation, he also addressed the collapse in commodity prices and explained how this time is different than previous crises. He also looked at the role of multilateral agencies, considered whether debt standstill is realistic, and addressed the role of China and the political dimension of the crisis in emerging markets. Following an extremely insightful presentation, Professor Sebastian Edwards moderated a conversation with Losada where question went deeper in to specific countries such as Brazil, Mexico, Peru and Colombia. Over 200 enrolled and recently admitted students, alumni, board members, faculty and staff gathered virtually for the third event in the CGM’s special COVID-19 World Today Discussion Series that aims to engage the community in interactive dialogue around implications of the COVID-19 global pandemic that transcends borders. In this Series, through Zoom presentations and discussions open to the UCLA Anderson community: UCLA and Anderson faculty, alumni, board members and thought leaders will share their perspectives on the critical business, policy and socioeconomic issues that affect us all. These are unprecedented times. UCLA Anderson’s Center for Global Management is committed to providing timely and relevant information about critical global topics and issues that matter to our community and the world. Video is private content and will be available to UCLA Anderson students. For more information, please contact global@anderson.ucla.edu.

x
Learn more...
Wednesday, April 15, 2020 5:00 – 6:00 PM

Virtual Dinner Discussion Special World Today Discussion Series: “Managing A Large Multi-Dollar Global Portfolio Amid COVID-19 Volatility” – The Perspective of a Chief Investment Officer

The COVID-19 pandemic – and the global response to it – is a serious threat not only to global health, but to communities, economies and investments. Institutional investors and other private fund investors are considering the economic exposure to their investments from operational disruptions as a result of the pandemic. On Wednesday, April 15, the Center for Global Management (CGM) hosted the second virtual discussion in its Special COVID-19 World Today Discussion Series. The topic of the second session that was co-sponsored by the UCLA Anderson Laurence & Lori Fink Center for Finance looked at managing a large multi-billion-dollar global portfolio amid COVID-19 volatility. CGM’s board chair Craig Ehrlich (B.A. ’78), chair-elect of the UCLA Foundation moderated the informative and insightful discussion with Justin Barton, president and chief investment officer of the UCLA Investment Company, responsible for the management of the UCLA Foundation’s ~$2.5 billion endowment fund - a global, multi-asset portfolio. Along with the Investment Company team, Barton oversees all aspects of the endowment including executing investment strategy, portfolio construction, and governance. Balancing the right number of relationships to create a global, multi-asset class portfolio that is not overly diversified is a persistent challenge in normal times. Barton addressed the key issues faced by institutional investors amid COVID-19 volatility. He examined what institutional investors should focus on with respect to internal governance; and addressed topics ranging from ESG to alternative investments and digital assets as well as legal issues brought on by this public health challenge. He also identified some of the elements that make for successful long-term investment partnerships during this highly complex environment and shared his longer-term view on the crisis and the broader questions it raises on how our financial system is structured to respond to such threats. Over 200 enrolled and recently admitted students, alumni, board members, faculty and staff gathered virtually for the second event in the CGM’s special COVID-19 World Today Discussion Series that aims to engage the community in interactive dialogue around implications of the COVID-19 global pandemic that transcends borders. In this Series, through Zoom presentations and discussions open to the UCLA Anderson community: UCLA and Anderson faculty, alumni, board members and thought leaders will share their perspectives on the critical business, policy and socioeconomic issues that affect us all. These are unprecedented times. UCLA Anderson’s Center for Global Management is committed to providing timely and relevant information about critical global topics and issues that matter to our community and the world. Video is private content and will be available to UCLA Anderson students. For more information, please contact global@anderson.ucla.edu.

x
Learn more...
Tuesday, April 7, 2020 5:00 – 6:30 PM

Virtual Dinner Discussion Special World Today Discussion Series: “COVID-19 and Its Global Impact” – A continuation of the discussion from a socio-economic and public health perspective

On Tuesday, April 7, the UCLA Anderson Center for Global Management (CGM) hosted a virtual dinner discussion in collaboration with the UCLA Fielding School of Public Health. As a follow up to the discussion on February 25th ( watch video), UCLA Anderson visiting professor and former minister in the Hong Kong SAR Government Christine Loh and Dr. Robert Kim-Farley who holds joint appointments in the departments of epidemiology and community health sciences at the UCLA Fielding School of Public Health gathered virtually to continue the conversation on the COVID-19 pandemic and its global impact from a socio-economic, business and public health perspective. The discussion was moderated by Professor Sebastian Edwards, CGM faculty director. UCLA Anderson’s Dean Bernardo and UCLA Fielding’s Dean Brookmeyer provided opening remarks.

While there is little certainty on what will happen next and when the virus will be contained, panelists addressed the broader issues surrounding the pandemic. They examined how the role of governments has expanded to deal with the virus; how COVID-19 could devastate many economies; and how the public health community is responding locally and globally. They also shared their longer term views on what the economic impact will be for the United States and globally and sought to explain how COVID-19 will not only have lasting effects on society and people’s behavior, but it will also alter the structure of global business. The interdisciplinary nature of the conversation was a further demonstration of academia's relevance to real-world problems. Over 400 students, alumni, board members, faculty, staff and members of the extended UCLA community and general public gathered virtually for the inaugural event in the special COVID-19 World Today Discussion Series that aims to engage the community in interactive dialogue around implications of the COVID-19 global pandemic that transcends borders. In this Series, through Zoom presentations and discussions open to the UCLA Anderson community: UCLA and Anderson faculty, alumni, board members and thought leaders will share their perspectives on the critical business, policy and socioeconomic issues that affect us all. These are unprecedented times. UCLA Anderson’s Center for Global Management is committed to providing timely and relevant information about critical global topics and issues that matter to our community and the world. This event was in recognition of the Wilbur K. Woo Greater China Business Conference, UCLA's largest conference focused on China. Due to the coronavirus outbreak, this year's conference which was to explore timely issues of technology transformation in China, and was scheduled to have taken place in April, was postponed. Our thoughts continue to be with people around the world who have been adversely affected by this pandemic.

x
Learn more...
Friday, February 28, 2020 5:30 – 6:30 PM

Global Management Lecture Series on “Observations of the Technology-Based Transformations in Shenzhen and Hong Kong and Importance of Non-Market Risks,” with Christine Loh, Visiting Professor, UCLA Anderson School of Management

A notable technology-driven transformation is happening in China, with Shenzhen being the national frontrunner. The national plan is for the Greater Bay Area (that includes Shenzhen and Hong Kong) to stimulate development towards 2035 so that the region can rival Silicon Valley. This transformation has been enabled by government policy, availability of capital, pace of adoption and enterprise-driven innovation, changes in consumer preference and the Chinese consumers’ willingness to share data and try new services. The role of technology also is driving notable impact for societies, enterprises and individuals. Non-market risks – political risk being a major one – can be highly disruptive. The ability to understand the politics of a place and its culture is helpful to assessing risk and making decisions. Are China’s “successes” replicable in other countries? What are the key enablers and what do leaders need to understand to succeed in this complex, ever-shifting landscape? On Friday, February 29, the Center for Global Management (CGM) and Professor Terry Kramer hosted Christine Loh, visiting professor and former minister of the Hong Kong S.A.R. government, who shared her own observations of transformations in Shenzhen and Hong Kong and how they look different from those in the United States. She addressed topics such as rising income, Chinese consumer insights, the unique role of government and the economy of Hong Kong vis-à-vis Shenzhen and the surrounding region and also tied in non-market risks to highlight that just applying pure economic analysis of markets is not sufficient. This discussion took place at the beginning of Professor Terry Kramer’s class on “A Technology Driven Transformation of Society, Enterprises and Consumers,” a course held in lieu of the CGM’s Global Immersion course with the same name that was scheduled to travel to Shenzhen and Hong Kong over spring break. Interested students not enrolled in the course were also invited to attend. Loh served as the undersecretary for the environment in the Hong Kong S.A.R. Government from 2012 to 2017. Her direct policy responsibilities included air quality, energy, climate change and biodiversity. She worked with her Mainland Chinese counterparts to define new policies to control shipping emissions, an area of work she pioneered prior to joining the HKSAR Government, which has changed China’s national policy in this area. She created new dialogue platforms between the government and business sectors in order to strengthen Hong Kong’s capacity to meet the challenge of climate change. She currently serves as chief development strategist at the Institute for the Environment at Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, as well as adjunct professor at the Division of Environment and Sustainability. In the 2018, 2019 and 2020 winter quarters, Loh has been teaching a course at UCLA Anderson on “Non-Market Risks and understanding Politics: The Global Context for Doing Business.”

x
Learn more...
Wednesday, February 26, 2020, at 6:30 PM – 9:00 PM , Grand Salon, Marion Anderson Hall, UCLA Anderson

Global Business and Policy Forum “Wealth Taxes: Good Idea or False Promise”?

Senators Elizabeth Warren and Bernie Sanders have both proposed ambitious wealth taxes as part of a plan to reduce inequality in the United States. These taxes will take from the very rich and use the revenue to support government programs for those at the bottom and middle of the income distribution. While the U.S. is considering adopting wealth taxes, most of the rest of the world have repealed them. On Wednesday, February 26, the UCLA Anderson Center for Global Management and UCLA School of Law’s Lowell Milken Institute for Business Law and Policy hosted its second global business and policy forum of the academic year with Eric Zolt, Michael H. Schill Distinguished Professor of Law Emeritus. Zolt provided an examination of the arguments for and against a wealth tax, the likely revenue and economic consequences, and the administrative challenges of taxing the very wealthy. Following an extremely informative presentation on this very timely topic, Joel Feuer, executive director for the Lowell Milken Institute for Business Law and Policy and a professor from practice moderated a conversation with students from both schools. Over dinner, there were many interactive table conversations where specific questions were discussed among students, including: Should the U.S. adopt a wealth tax? Is the wealth tax the best way to tax the uber-wealthy? Students were also asked to comment on if the goal is to reduce income and wealth inequality, which would be more effective: to impose wealth taxes and use proceeds for social spending programs or adopt less progressive (or regressive) taxes and use proceeds to fund even larger social programs? Eric M. Zolt is the Michael H. Schill Distinguished Professor of Law Emeritus at the UCLA School of Law. He specializes in individual, corporate, and international tax law. Working with the International Monetary Fund, the World Bank, U.S. AID and the U.S. Treasury Department, Zolt has served as a consultant on tax policy matters in over 30 countries. The discussion which was held in the Grand Salon of the new Marion Anderson Hall engaged around 80 students and faculty from the UCLA Anderson School of Management and the UCLA School of Law. The Global Business and Policy Forum is a collaborative partnership between UCLA Anderson’s Center for Global Management and the UCLA School of Law's Lowell Milken Institute for Business Law and Policy.

x
Learn more...
Tuesday, February 25, 2020, 11:30 AM – 1:00 PM, Crown Family Auditorium, Marion Anderson Hall, UCLA Anderson

World Today Discussion Series on the “Coronavirus and Its Global Impact”

Originating in Wuhan, China, the coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak has grown into the country's largest public health crisis since the struggle to contain SARS in 2002/03. Respiratory infections, know no borders and since its initial identification in China just two months ago, the outbreak has grown exponentially, making a significant impact on health, trade, travel and the global economy. In the decade and a half since the SARS crisis, China has made great strides in public health. One crucial difference is the country’s importance for the rest of the world. In 2003, China generated 4% of global GDP. Last year, it was 16%. Disruption in China, the world’s second-biggest economy, has global consequences. While growth slowed sharply at the height of the SARS epidemic, it rebounded swiftly after it was contained. The World Bank has estimated that as much as 90% of the economic damage from epidemics stems from people’s fear of associating with others, which leads factories, offices and stores to close and results on a drag on consumption. While public-health experts debate whether this is the right approach, economists will count the costs. What happens next will depend on how quickly the virus can be contained. But there is much uncertainty about when that might be.

On Tuesday, February 25, the UCLA Anderson Center for Global Management hosted a lunchtime discussion in collaboration with the UCLA Fielding School of Public Health with UCLA Anderson visiting professor and former minister in the Hong Kong SAR Government Christine Loh, economist William Yu and Dr. Robert Kim-Farley who holds joint appointments in the departments of epidemiology and community health sciences at the UCLA Fielding School of Public Health. They discussed the coronavirus and its global impact from a socio-economic, business and public health perspective. While there is little certainty on what will happen next and when the virus will be contained, panelists addressed the broader issues surrounding the outbreak, identified comparisons with and lessons learned from other epidemics and explained why these outbreaks are so difficult to predict and prepare for, and how the public health community can best respond. They also shared their longer term views and addressed what the economic impact could be for the United States and globally. The discussion was moderated by Sebastian Edwards, Henry Ford II Chair in International Management. UCLA Anderson’s Dean Bernardo provided opening remarks. The recently opened Crown Family Auditorium was packed with faculty, students and staff from both the UCLA Anderson School of Management and the UCLA Fielding School of Public Health. Students from the UCLA School of Law and UCLA Luskin School of Public Affairs were also invited to attend. The conversation was a vivid demonstration of academia's relevance to real-world problems and the attendance and questioning reflected the audience's interest and engagement. This event was in recognition of the Wilbur K. Woo Greater China Business Conference, UCLA's largest conference focused on China. Due to the coronavirus outbreak, this year's conference which was to explore timely issues of technology transformation in China, and was scheduled to have taken place in April, was postponed. Our thoughts are with the people of China and around the world who have been adversely affected by this outbreak.

x
Learn more...
Thursday, February 20, 2020 11:30 AM – 12:30 PM Executive Dining Room

Lunch Series on “Innovation, Autonomous Vehicles and Purpose: Insights from inside Israel: the Start-Up Nation,“ with Mois Navon (B.S. ’85), Founding Engineer, Mobileye

On Thursday, February 20, the Center for Global Management welcomed to campus UCLA alumnus Mois Navon (B.S. ’85), one of the founding engineers of Mobileye, the global leader in the development of vision technology for Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) and autonomous driving. From surfing the beaches of California - as a UCLA undergraduate student studying computer engineering - to designing Mobileye’s System on a Chip, powering the autonomous vehicle revolution, Navon shared how he has charted a course driven by passion and purpose, bringing inspiration to people of all walks of life. The lunchtime presentation provided an opportunity for interested students across the full-time, fully employed and executive MBA programs as well as faculty members to hear from Navon about both the Mobileye story as well as his own personal journey. At Mobileye, Navon designed the EyeQ Family of SoC (System on a Chip) – the chip powering the autonomous vehicle revolution. Prior to Mobileye, he worked for notable companies such as IBM and NASA’s JPL, as well as a number of Israeli start-ups. He also is the author of numerous hardware patents in the field of image processing and computing hardware. While he is an engineer by profession, Navon is a rabbi by passion and currently pursuing his Ph.D. at the Department of Jewish Philosophy at Bar Ilan University where his thesis seeks to apply Jewish philosophy to address the ethical questions arising in the field of artificial intelligence. Professor Stuart Gabriel, Arden Realty Chair who leads the Center for Global Management’s global immersion course to Israel provided introductory remarks. In March, 40 students from across UCLA Anderson’s four MBA programs will be traveling to Tel Aviv and Jerusalem for the in-country component of the global immersion course focused on “The Start-Up Nation: Entrepreneurship, Innovation and Sustainability.” Navon will also be presenting to the students on their first day in Tel Aviv. The lunch, organized by the Center for Global Management was supported by the Jewish Business Student Association, Entrepreneur Association and Tech Business Association at Anderson.

x
Learn more...
Thursday, January 30 – Thursday, February 20, 2020

UCLA Anderson 2020 International Film Festival

The Anderson International Film Festival (AIFF) celebrates diversity at UCLA Anderson through film. The third annual AIFF which began on January 30 and ran through February 20 was presented by the school’s Entertainment Management Association (EMA). UCLA Anderson identity clubs were asked to select a movie that would provide classmates with some insight on their region, culture or identity. The AIFF engaged twelve UCLA Anderson identity clubs and this year, including Out@Anderson for the first time. During the festival, a movie was screened each Monday through Thursday evening. In total, twelve movies and documentaries were screened from the home countries of many students, including films from Mexico, China, Germany, India, South Korea, Japan and the United States. Each screening was followed by a Q&A session facilitated by first and second year full-time MBA students from that particular country who were leaders of the sponsoring student club. These students led conversations around topics that the film addressed and issues that the film raised. Local cuisine from the country/region was also served. One example of a film that was screened included “shoplifters”, which won the palme d’or in 2018, sponsored by the Japan America Business Association (JABA). Hiroyuki Tochigi (’20), Takuto Saito (‘21) and Kevin Tente (’20) led the discussion following the movie. They provided some insight and highlighted some subtleties that a non-Japanese audience could have missed.

Over 140 students from across UCLA Anderson’s full-time and fully employed MBA programs registered through CampusGroups to attend the screenings with some students attending more than one screening. UCLA undergraduate students as well as Anderson Ph.D. students also joined screenings. Many students who attended felt that they had gained a better understanding of the country and culture as a result of attending the screening and participating in the conversation. The festival was presented by the UCLA Anderson Entertainment Management Association and was sponsored by the Center for Global Management, the Anderson Office of Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion, the Center for MEMES and the International Business Association.

x
Learn more...
Wednesday, February 12, 2020

Center for Global Management Mentor Program Gathering with Past and Present Mentees at Wolfgang Puck, Ackerman Union

On Wednesday, February 12, 2020, 2018-19 mentees shared experiences and networked with 2019-20 mentees at an early dinner gathering at the Wolfgang Puck restaurant, Ackerman Union located in the heart of the UCLA campus. The CGM mentor program connects current full-time MBA, FEMBA, EMBA and UCLA-NUS EMBA students with members of the center’s advisory board, a dedicated and actively engaged group of visionary global leaders spanning a variety of geographies and industries. The program provides students with a unique opportunity to connect and form meaningful relationships with board members, who offer valuable counsel and guidance on professional endeavors, living and working abroad, global business and life lessons. By playing a direct role in shaping the next generation of global leaders, board members contribute in the most meaningful ways. Mentees gain valuable guidance in academic and career direction, obtain advice and perspective, gain insights into industries and professions of interest, and learn about professional and personal development skills required to succeed. The program was established to augment knowledge and understanding among students interested in pursuing a career in international business and management across a variety of industries and disciplines, as well as living and working abroad upon graduation. During the 2019-20 academic year, four full-time MBA, two FEMBA and one UCLA-NUS EMBA students are participating as mentees in the seventh year of the program.

x
Learn more...
Monday, February 10, 2020 6:00 PM – 7:15 PM UCLA Bunche Hall

“Israeli Politics and Future Directions” with Former Knesset Member, Haim Ramon

On March 2, Israelis are heading for an unprecedented third national election within 11 months, and the country has been without a permanent government since April, 2019. Two prior rounds of elections - in April and September - ended in a “draw” between the centrist Blue and White party, and Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s Likud party. Neither side has been able to form a governing coalition, and in the meantime Netanyahu has been indicted on charges of bribery and corruption, but refuses to step aside. What could happen next, and what does all this mean for Israel's future? On Monday, February 10 in the early evening, students, faculty and members of the local community heard a lively presentation from Haim Ramon, a former Knesset Member, on contemporary Israeli politics, the reasons for Israel’s current political deadlock and his predictions for the March election, given his long experience in Israeli politics and his deep knowledge of it. Following his presentation, Dov Waxman, Rosalinde and Arthur Gilbert Foundation Chair in Israel Studies and director of the Younes and Soraya Nazarian Center for Israeli Studies, had several questions for Ramon. A veteran Israeli politician, Ramon was a Knesset Member between 1983 and 2009, and was appointed as Minister of Health in the government of Prime Minister Yitzhak Rabin in 1992. He also held the posts of Minister of the Interior in 1995, Minister of Justice in 2006, and served as Vice Premier in the Prime Minister’s Office (2007-2009). Born in Tel Aviv, Ramon served as an officer in the Israel Air Force. This event was organized by the Younes and Soraya Nazarian Center for Israeli Studies and co-sponsored by the UCLA Anderson Jewish Business Student Association and Center for Global Management.

x
Learn more...
Thursday, February 6, 2020, 5:00 – 6:30 PM, Executive Dining Room

Global Networking Reception for Students & Faculty – Strengthening Global Intellectual and Social Connections between Faculty and Students

A key objective of the Center for Global Management is to help strengthen the intellectual and social connections between faculty and students interested in global management and international affairs. On February 6, 2020, prior to the opening of spring quarter course bidding, around 150 students, faculty and CGM partners gathered in the executive dining room for the center's annual networking reception. The reception provided an opportunity for UCLA Anderson students to learn about the global opportunities available at UCLA Anderson both on campus and abroad, including the opportunity to travel abroad with the CGM’s global immersion and FEMBA and EMBA international exchange courses, courses, make a global impact with the center’s support for international field study projects, learn a language, specialize in global management, enroll in on-campus global management courses and participate in the CGM’s programming. The event provided an opportunity for students to interact with faculty who teach global courses as well as faculty and Ph.D. students who have global research and teaching interests. First year students networked with students across degree programs who have traveled abroad, enrolled in global courses and engaged with the center’s programming. The center’s faculty and executive directors, Professor Sebastian Edwards and Lucy Allard provided welcome remarks and an overview of the CGM's courses and programming and introduced faculty members to the students. The reception provided an opportunity for students currently enrolled in global courses and engaged with the center's programming, including those who have traveled abroad for global immersion courses and international field study primary research to network and share their experiences with others.

x
Learn more...
Thursday, February 6, 2020 11:30 AM – 12:30 PM, La Force Conference Room

Lunch Series on “Running a Global Business” with Kevin Berryman (’87), President and CFO, Jacobs Engineering Group

On Thursday, February 6, the Center for Global Management hosted a luncheon with Kevin Berryman (’87), a member of the CGM’s advisory board and alumnus of the FEMBA program, who serves as president and CFO of Jacobs Engineering Group, Inc., one of the world’s largest and most diverse providers of technical professional services, with operations around the globe. Berryman, a native of California has enjoyed an extremely successful global career and now oversees Jacobs digital and information technology and all aspects of corporate finance and treasury, investor relations and communications, strategy, M&A and internal audit.

The luncheon provided an opportunity for students across the MBA and MSBA programs who are pursuing the global management specialization, and/or are members of the Strategy and Operations Management and International Business Associations to meet with Berryman in an informal and interactive setting and hear his insights on what is it like to run a global business with distributed operations in the midst of complex and changing economic, political and cultural environments in the United States and globally. He discussed his career trajectory post the UCLA Anderson FEMBA program transitioning from Nestlé in Switzerland to Jacobs Engineering in Dallas today and the importance of global perspectives and experience in today’s environment. Berryman also shared his thoughts on his industry, experience transferring industries and insights on the different functional roles he has served in. He addressed the importance of having a holistic view of a business, understanding accounting and financial aspects and knowing how to drive performance. As students think about their careers, he touched on the importance of considering lateral moves to better understand different facets of a business and its operations. He also emphasized the importance of finding a passion which helps to both achieve a work life balance and make you a better team member. Past and present CGM mentees also attended the luncheon. The previous evening, Berryman was the guest speaker in Professor Sakakibara’s International Business Strategy class where he talked about entering and successfully working in foreign markets and how business and investment decisions are made. Prior to his role with Jacobs, Berryman served as executive vice president and chief financial officer of International Flavors & Fragrances (IFF). Before joining IFF, he enjoyed a successful 25-year career with Nestlé where he held various positions of increasing responsibility in the areas of financial and operations management and spent a number of years at their global headquarters in Switzerland.

x
Learn more...
Saturday, February 1, 2020 8:30 am – 4:30 pm

The Los Angeles Global Health Conference, “2020 and Beyond: Spotlight on a Shared Future,” Covel Commons at UCLA

The fifth annual Los Angeles Global Health Conference (LAGHC), “2020 and Beyond: Spotlight on a Shared Future,” took place at UCLA on Saturday, February 1. This annual global health conference hosted in Southern California brought together around 300 individuals from various disciplines across academia, NGOs, business, and the public sector to discuss the current status of world health and provided an interactive educational forum to discuss innovative ways to tackle health disparities—locally and globally. Home to individuals from more than 140 countries speaking 224 different languages, Los Angeles's rich cultural diversity makes it an ideal place to examine the current status of world health. The LAGHC is organized by students from medicine, public health, and other disciplines from universities all over the region, including UCLA David Geffen School of Medicine, Fielding School of Public Health, Undergraduate Departments, and USC Institute on Inequalities in Global Health, among others.

Given the current global events, focusing on humility and transparency is key to successfully address health disparities both in our backyard and abroad. The 2020 conference brought together students, faculty, researchers and professionals with members of the Los Angeles communities to stimulate a dialogue around the varying disparities both in our backyards and around the world that also informs and equips our future global health leaders. Following opening remarks by Kelsey Martin, Dean of the David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, the opening keynote address, “How Do You Eat an Elephant? Learning Lessons for a Shared Global Health Agenda” was delivered by Elizabeth Anne Bukasi, MBCHB, M. MED, MPH, Ph.D., PGD, MBE, chief research officer of Kenya Medial Research Institute. Her primary research interests are focused on sexually transmitted infections, reproductive health and HIV prevention, care and treatment and capacity building for research and programs. Bukasi also has a keen interest in research and clinical ethics/research regulatory systems. The day also included numerous breakout sessions with a diverse group of speakers around four specific tracks, including “Global crisis: epidemics, disasters and threats; Innovation in global health: film and technology; Vulnerable populations: migrant and refugee health; and Gender equality and sexual and reproductive care.

A breakout session on “Bridging the Digital Divide in Sweetwaters, South Africa” was delivered by Connie Jiang and Spencer Feliciano-Lyons, full-time MBA candidates from the Class of 2020 at UCLA Anderson. They discussed elements of their Applied Management Research field study project with the Human Sciences Research Council, South Africa. HSRC is Africa's largest dedicated social science and humanities research agency and policy think tank with the mission is to advance social sciences and humanities for public use. The objective of the project was to identify a viable long-term solution to increase affordable data access to the impoverished rural community of Sweetwaters in South Africa. This in turn would help to better understand barriers to entry of MHealth applications. The project addressed the digital divide and focused on the implications of the divide on human and social development. The team identified three key components to bridge the divide, namely access, usage and ultimately benefits both to individuals and to the community. Other members of the AMR team working on this project include: Stephanie Hong, Pitcha Leelapornpisid and Justin Pruttivarasin. The session highlighted how students can use their business school skills, knowledge and frameworks to make a positive impact in the area of global health. The UCLA Anderson Center for Global Management was a silver sponsor of the event. Other sponsors included the UCLA International Institute, UCLA Health, David Geffen School of Medicine Global health program, UCLA AIDS Institute and The Promise Institute for Human Rights at the UCLA School of Law, among others.

x
Learn more...
Wednesday, January 29, 2020, at 5:00 – 6:30 p.m. Executive Dining Room, UCLA Anderson

World Today Discussion Series on “Protests in Hong Kong, Paris and Around the World: Making Sense of the Turmoil — A Socioeconomic and Business Perspective”

In 2019, demonstrations around the globe, both peaceful and violent were set off by social unrest over economic instability, government corruption and inequality. The protests created a domino effect, crossing borders and bringing crowds of people to streets globally to demand change. In Great Britain, mass demonstrations took place both for and against Brexit, destined to define the country’s future; in France, a year into the yellow vest protests, while demonstrations waned in size, grievances remain; in Chile, anger at increases in public transport costs grew into a broad-based movement protesting inequality; in Lebanon, a levy on WhatsApp calls sparked pent-up anger, forcing Prime Minister Saad Hariri to resign in October; and in Hong Kong, a June rally against a law allowing extradition to China morphed into a broad anti-China movement. The desire to be heard was felt by people from different nationalities, religions and political affiliations. On Wednesday, January 29, the UCLA Anderson Center for Global Management hosted a discussion over dinner with Christine Loh, visiting professor and former Government minister, Hong Kong S.A.R. Government; Chris Tang, Edward W. Carter Chair In Business Administration; and Romain Wacziarg, Hans Hufschmid Chair in Management who addressed the global landscape and explored the worldwide push for action from a socio-economic and business perspective. While there is little certainty on what will happen going forward, they also shared their longer term views and the possible wider implications for business and society that could evolve as citizens across the globe continue to protest injustices, demand reforms and push for change. They also addressed the role of government. The discussion was moderated by Sebastian Edwards, Henry Ford II Chair in International Management. The packed room included faculty and students from the UCLA Anderson and its full-time, fully employed and executive MBA as well as Ph.D. programs. Students from the UCLA School of Law and UCLA Luskin School of Public Affairs were also invited to attend. The World Today Discussion Series engages students in dialogue in an interactive, engaging and enriching discussion format around current global issues that transcend borders. Through the series, the CGM engages globally minded students with issues that matter and ideas that stimulate. Through balanced discourse, the series serves as a neutral forum to educate students on global issues while at the same time encourage debate and examination.

x
Learn more...
Thursday, January 23, 2020, Anderson Afternoon, North Terrace

Celebrating Lunar New Year at UCLA Anderson

To celebrate the Year of the Rat, promote familiarity with and understanding of the Asian culture, and strengthen cross-club collaboration, on Thursday, January 23, 2020, the Center for Global Management supported the Greater China Business Association (GCBA), Asian Management Student Association (AMSA), Korean Business Student Association (KBSA), and Southeast Asian Business Association (SEABA) to celebrate the Lunar New Year. The Lunar New Year is one of the most important holidays in many Asian countries, and celebrated by even more people of Asian heritage globally. During Anderson Afternoon on January 23, 2020, these four clubs took the opportunity to invite the entire UCLA Anderson community to join and celebrate the Lunar New Year together. This year, more than 400 UCLA Anderson students, faculty, and staff participated in the festivities. The North Terrace was transformed into a sea of red with lantern decorations and many different types of décor to bring out the best of the holiday spirit. Authentic Chinese and Southeast Asian food was also served to fully indulge the community in the celebrations. To help classmates better understand the traditions, the clubs prepared a variety of celebratory activities, including learning Chinese calligraphy, winning red envelopes, guessing word riddles, and passing out traditional Lunar New Year candies among other activities. The students also had the chance to watch and enjoy the traditional Fan and Hat dance performed by “VCN Traditional” from the UCLA Vietnamese Student Union in celebration of the Lunar New Year. The event was hosted by GCBA, AMSA, KBSA, and SEABA, and supported by the CGM, Anderson Student Association and the Office of Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion.

x
Learn more...
Thursday, January 23, 2020 11:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.

Global Management Lecture Series on “Africa: An Opportunity for Those Who Discern and Distill: A Cultural Insight into Commercial Success,“ with Sanjeev Gupta, Board of Directors Member and Executive Director for Financial Services, Africa Finance Corporation

Africa is the world’s second largest continent with a population of over 1.2 billion people. Africa thrives in all its diversity and amidst the proxy wars that keep affecting its progress. People and hope combined with capital and perseverance change everything. On Thursday, January 23, the Center for Global Management welcomed to campus Sanjeev Gupta, board of directors member and executive director for financial services at the Africa Finance Corporation (AFC) for a conversation and moderated discussion as part of its Global management Lecture Series. AFC is an independent, majority private sector owned, multi-lateral African financial institution that provides project structuring expertise and risk capital to address Africa’s infrastructure development needs. Gupta addressed a packed classroom of UCLA Anderson MBA, Ph.D. as well as undergraduate students, alumni and representatives from UCLA’s African Studies Center for a fascinating discussion as he provided a cultural insight into commercial success on the continent. Gupta explained how Africa is no different to anywhere else - to succeed, businesses need on the ground presence, patient capital and the ability to understand local nuances and encourage local practices. They also need to embrace multiculturalism as a reality and adaptability as an imperative. Gupta shared his real life experiences of success, planning and delivery in Africa that while hard to replicate in the confines of a business school, were rich in content, and provided succor and hope to aspiring leaders willing and keen to succeed in what is paradoxically referred to as the last frontier for humanity. Gupta has 30 years of experience in investment and fund management, private equity and corporate finance. His forte has been to blend global and indigenous corporates, financial investors and governments to develop commercially viable business and development models that leave a sustainable impact on emerging market economies. Gupta’s overall responsibility in AFC includes treasury, trade finance, debt syndication, country and investor relations and financial advisory. Prior to joining AFC, Gupta was the managing partner of Emerging Markets Mergers and Acquisitions Center of Excellence at Ernst and Young. He has also served as the chief executive officer of Sanlam Investment Management Emerging Markets operations and was a founder and managing partner of Emerging Opportunity Consulting, a boutique advisory firm specializing in SME financing.

x
Learn more...
Thursday, January 16, 2020

Networking Reception with Students from the University of Sydney Business School’s EMBA and UCLA Anderson EMBA, FEMBA and FTMBA Programs, Executive Dining Room

The Center for Global Management hosted around 20 students from the University of Sydney Business School’s Executive MBA program at UCLA Anderson from January 12-16 for a one-week global management seminar focused on “Finding Opportunity in Disruptive Technology.” The seminar provided participants with an opportunity to complete part of their studies at UCLA and gain valuable global experience and insights through focusing on the innovation and creativity that are such an integral part of the business community in Los Angeles and California, including current academic research and business application around topics such as artificial intelligence, machine learning and deep learning business management impacts; as well as technology and business model driven innovation, the sharing economy and disruptions in healthcare. During the week, students visited the Cedars-Sinai accelerator, Netflix and Paramount Studios. On Thursday, January 16, the students enjoyed a networking reception in UCLA Anderson’s executive dining room, hosted by the CGM where they had an opportunity to meet and connect with first and second year students from UCLA Anderson’s Los Angeles-based EMBA, FEMBA and FTMBA programs.

x
Learn more...
Tuesday, January 14, 2020 11:30 AM – 12:30 PM Executive Dining Room

Lunch Series with Alex Gouvea (’90), Senior Partner, McKinsey & Co. on “A Global Consulting Career and Doing Business Internationally”

On Tuesday, January 14, the Center for Global Management welcomed to campus UCLA Anderson alumnus Alex Gouvea (’90). As senior partner for McKinsey & Co. in Brazil, Gouvea led the Firm’s Banking Practice, its Organization Services and, more recently, the Recovery & Transformation Unit in South America. Since joining McKinsey & Co. in 1990, Gouvea has worked across South America as well as in the United States, Canada, and Turkey. During his almost 30 years with McKinsey, Gouvea has served clients in financial services, retail, telecommunications, chemicals, metals and mining. The luncheon provided an opportunity for interested students across the full-time, fully employed and executive MBA and MSBA programs who are pursuing the global management specialization and/or are members of UCLA Anderson’s Latin American Business Association and/or Management Consulting Association to meet with Gouvea in an informal and interactive setting and hear about his successful career trajectory post-Anderson. He addressed his extensive consulting career with McKinsey & Co. in South America and globally, and shared his thoughts on comparative challenges helping companies do business in Brazil, across South America and internationally. In addition to sharing his own experiences and personal journey, Gouvea also explained how the digital revolution has impacted consulting and how consultants these days are problem solving in different and dynamic ways. Over the years the world has become more complex. He touched on the unique challenges of doing business in Brazil and emphasized the importance of paying attention to the personal dimension. The lunch, organized by the Center for Global Management was supported by the Latin American Business Association and Management Consulting Association.

x
Learn more...

2019

Sunday, December 15 – Saturday, December 21, 2019

39 MBA students travel to Mumbai and Hyderabad for the CGM’s global immersion course to learn about “The Business Environment of India with an emphasis on entertainment and finance (Mumbai) and technology and biotech (Hyderabad),” with Romain Wacziarg, Hans Hufschmid Chair in Management and professor of economics

During winter break, 39 students from all four of UCLA Anderson’s MBA programs - full-time, fully employed, executive and UCLA-NUS executive MBA also visited Mumbai and Hyderabad for the in-country week of the CGM’s global immersion course, “The Business Environment of India,” led by Romain Wacziarg, Hans Hufschmid Chair in Management and professor of economics. In Mumbai, the course focused on entertainment and finance; and in Hyderabad, the emphasis was on healthcare, biotech and technology. The Center for Global Management partnered with and visited the Indian School of Business for the Hyderabad portion of the course.

This particular course familiarized students with India’s business environment. Since experiencing a severe balance of payments crisis in 1991, India has engaged in several waves of economic reforms that have resulted in high rates of growth over the last 25 years. Aided by strong fundamentals such as a democratic political system, a vast and youthful population, a culture of entrepreneurship and a large cohort of well-trained engineers and scientists, India is emerging as one of the major economic powerhouses of the 21st century. Yet challenges remain: an inadequate infrastructure, rampant corruption, growing income inequality, the permanence of the caste system and a dysfunctional political economy have conspired to hinder the strides that India was poised to make. The government headed by Narendra Modi, who was recently reelected to a second term, had initially rekindled the flame of reforms, tackling taxes and the business climate. But will this modernist agenda be stymied by the regime's populist tendencies? With a vibrant entrepreneurial class and a new business-friendly government, will India be able to meet the many challenges that she faces? This course explored both the risks and opportunities offered by the Indian market for foreign investors and domestic entrepreneurs alike. This was the fifth time a global immersion course had visited India, however it was the first time that a course had focused on and visited Hyderabad, where the sectors of some emphasis included healthcare, biotech and technology.

During the one-week in-country, students heard from and engaged with many distinguished and influential business leaders and members of the civil society in India, as well as visited places of historical and cultural importance. The inaugural visit was to Sony Pictures Networks India where students heard from CEO and industry veteran, N.P. Singh who provided an excellent overview of the media and entertainment landscape in India and Sony’s importance in the sector. Aditya Mehta, head of corporate strategy and Manu Narang, chief HR officer also added significant context to the discussion highlighting Sony’s role as a “content influencer” with the ability to shape culture and steer topics discussed in the country’s social circles. The group also enjoyed a tour of Sony’s sports studios. To continue the entertainment theme, the group visited Yash Raj Films, the only privately held and fully integrated studio in India where they heard from Shantanu Hudikar, the chief of sound who discussed the role of music in movies. Students also toured this 50-year strong production house and vertically integrated studio that controls almost every part of the value chain from production to post production, domestic and international distribution, music and home entertainment, marketing, design, digital, licensing, merchandising, talent management, brand partnerships, music studios and film studios - all in-house facilities, which make it one of the most coveted entertainment conglomerates in the country. Students also visited Viacom 18 Media Pvt. Limited, an Indian joint venture operation between ViacomCBS and TV18 in Mumbai. Founded in 2007, Viacom 18 owns various channels of ViacomCBS, as well as various consumer products in India. Sudhanshu Vats, the group CEO and managing director shared the history and growth of Viacom 18 and and the company’s journeyto becoming India's fastest growing entertainment network. He also addressed the appetite for and growth of digital consumption in India.

On the finance side, students visited the Reserve Bank of India in Mumbai, the country’s central bank which controls monetary policy and is responsible for maintaining economic growth and stability. Students heard from some of the Bank’s senior staff members on India’s banking system and learned about monetary policy and financial regulations in country. At the National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI) students were provided a thorough overview of the retail payments sector in India and how e-payments are handled from NPCI’s chief operations officer and chief of marketing, Praveena Rai and Kunal Kalawatia. NPCI is an umbrella organization for operating retail payments and settlement systems in the country. It is an initiative of the RBI and Indian Banks' Association (IBA) under the provisions of the Payment and Settlement Systems Act, 2007 for creating a robust payment and settlement infrastructure in the country. At the Asiatic Society of Mumbai, students heard from Tata Capital’s Avijit Bhattacharya, chief HR officer and Kumar Anurag, deputy vice president of strategy and special projects who explained how the overall financial landscape in India has changed over the years, including efforts to digitize financial transactions, challenges experienced by the sector as well as the journey of Tata Capital and a discussion on its activities, services and products. Tata Capital Ltd. is the flagship financial services company of the Indian multinational conglomerate, Tata Group.

At Barclays Rise, located in the heart of Mumbai’s fintech community, Sandeep Das, CEO of Barclays Private Clients group, together with the Private Bank’s heads of investment and equities discussed wealth management in India and the changing landscape of the private banking business in the country. Later, students had the opportunity to gain a better understanding of the start-up ecosystem and entrepreneurial environment in the country from Ajay Ramasubramaniam, co-founder and CEO of Startup Reseau. Together with his partners, Ramasubramaniam has successfully built India’s top meta-accelerator which brings together a global network of startup ecosystem enablers: startups, enterprises, capital, markets, mentors and services. Lincy Therattil, Rise Mumbai’s head of open innovation and fintech platform lead provided an overview of Barclays Rise, a global community of fintech innovators that seeks to disrupt, challenge and confront the way things are done in the industry. Discussions around the financial sector in India, would not be complete without a presentation and dialogue around microfinance. This was delivered by Anujeet Varadkar, CEO of Svatantra, a next generation microfinance entity that leverages technology to bank the unbanked and encourages entrepreneurship in rural areas, primarily among women. Headquartered in Mumbai, Svatantra is registered with the RBI as a non-deposit taking, non-banking finance company (NBFC) – microfinance institution (MFI). Importantly, it was the first recipient of the NBFC-MFI in India. Varadkar explained the history of microfinance in India, the evolution of the MFI in the country and the current environment.

On the final evening in Mumbai, to complement the finance-related discussions and visits, students enjoyed a panel discussion at the historic Royal Bombay Yacht Club on “financial inclusion – bringing India’s masses into the formal financial and banking system.” Ashwin Mittal (’01), president of Course5 Intelligence and president of the UCLA Anderson Alumni Mumbai subchapter moderated the discussion. Panelists included UCLA Anderson alumni Abhishek Agarwal (’10), co-founder and CEO at CreditVidya, a leading player in the alternative credit scoring space in India that leverages alternative data, AI and machine learning to facilitate institutional credit for the underserved; and Ashish Kotecha (’01), managing partner at Bain Capital. They were joined by Vikas Khemani, founder of Carnelian Asset Management, former head of investment banking and institutional equities for Edelweiss, a large diversified financial services company based in Mumbai. A networking event followed. Alumni from UCLA Anderson’s full-time, fully employed, UCLA-NUS EMBA and PGPX programs joined the evening.

Following three full days in Mumbai, students then traveled to Hyderabad where the focus of the sessions centered around healthcare, biotech and technology. This portion of the course was organized by the Indian School of Business (ISB). The inaugural visit was to Dr. Reddy’s Labs, a global pharmaceutical company based in Hyderabad that uses science and technology to provide affordable and innovative medicines. Nithin Nemani, strategy lead and Kapil Choudhury, head of business development provided an excellent overview of the biopharma industry in India and shared Dr. Reddy’s journey. Students were also taken on a tour of its facility. Driven by the belief that good health can’t wait, Dr. Reddy’s central purpose is to accelerate access to affordable and innovative medicines. The company has commercial presence in 30 countries, including the U.S. and has also enjoyed significant success in highly regulated markets. Students learned about state of the art healthcare delivery system in India through a visit to and tour of Apollo Hospitals, Asia’s foremost integrated healthcare service provider where they heard from Subramanyam Yadavalli, regional CEO. Apollo Hospitals, renowned as the architect of modern healthcare in India, has a robust presence across the healthcare ecosystem, including hospitals, pharmacies, primary care and diagnostic clinics and several retail health models. As the nation's first corporate hospital, Apollo Hospitals is acclaimed for pioneering the private healthcare revolution in the country.

Later at L V Prasad Eye Institute (LVPEI), students learned about the confluence of efficiency and innovation from Raghu Gullapalli, executive director of emerging technologies and business development and then enjoyed an interactive discussion with LVPEI’s founder Gullapalli N Rao. Rao established LVPEI in 1987 after a successful career in the United States as an academic ophthalmologist and with a generous contribution by L.V. Prasad who was a pioneering Indian film producer, actor, director, cinematographer and businessman as he was struck by the lack of good eye care in India. LVPEI now is a World Health Organization Collaborating Centre for Prevention of Blindness and a comprehensive eye health facility. In 1997, LVPEI began work on a model that ensures excellent eye care for all, across villages and cities. The model follows a five-level inter-connected structure, building permanent infrastructure and human resources at each level of care. Each level generates income and delivers good quality eye care, irrespective of a person’s ability to pay. The Government of India adopted the LVPEI eye health pyramid as a model of eye care service delivery in its current five-year plan budget and the model is being rolled out in other states in a phased manner. Students received a fascinating tour of the facility where they also observed firsthand the different areas and levels of service and comfort given to patients based on what they can afford to pay. An overview and understanding of the biotech industry in India from a global perspective was also provided through a visit to Bharat Biotech, the largest vaccines and bio-‐therapeutics manufacturer in India, headquartered in Hyderabad. Bharat Biotech started operations in 1997 and today has over 160 patents. Known for its world-class R&D and manufacturing capabilities, the company’s mission is to deliver affordable, safe and high quality vaccines and bio-therapeutics that help people prevail over diseases. It also seeks to lead innovation in biotechnology in order to lead the fight against disease with a focus on emerging markets. Students heard from Sai Prasad, president of quality operations and from G.V.J.A. Harshavardhan, director of viral vaccines and international affairs. Bharat Biotech was co-founded by Dr. Krishna M. Ella who strongly believes that innovative technology in vaccine development is essential to solve public healthcare problems caused by infectious diseases. During their time in Hyderabad, students also had the opportunity to visit Infosys to better understand the rise of big multinational technology firms in India and tour T-Hub, a tech incubator and accelerator to better understand India’s tech start-up scene and ecosystem.

The Indian School of Business was the Center for Global Management’s academic partner in Hyderabad and at the conclusion of the week, students visited the ISB campus. UCLA Anderson Ph.D. alumnus Sarang Deo (Ph.D. ’07), associate professor and executive director of ISB’s Max Institute of Healthcare Management delivered the final session, “connecting the dots” on health care and biotech, which provided terrific context and perspective to the Hyderabad segment of the course. During the week, students witnessed the influence and wonderful support and engagement of UCLA alumni in both Mumbai and Hyderabad. In addition to the alumni panel and networking in Mumbai, UCLA Anderson alumni joined the closing dinner, hosted on campus by ISB as its own alumni gathered together for the School’s annual alumni Solstice celebration and festival. Alumni from the FEMBA and PGPX programs joined the evening of networking. The next day, Professors Bhagwan Chowdhry and Romain Wacziarg united during the alumni weekend to deliver a talk on what prevents countries from attaining prosperity and what countries such as India can do about it. During the week, students also got to experience some of the culture, cuisine and sights of India. In Mumbai, students visited the Gateway of India and the Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus, formerly known as Victoria Terminus. They also explored other notable landmarks such as the Horniman Circle Gardens, St. Thomas Cathedral, the ornamentally sculpted architectural heritage monument Flora Fountain and the Bombay High Court, one of the oldest courts in India. At the conclusion of the week, some students headed to explore other parts of India and a number headed to Agra to visit the magnificent Taj Mahal.

x
Learn more...
Sunday, December 15 – Saturday, December 21, 2019

38 students from all four MBA programs travel to Singapore and Bangkok for the CGM’s global immersion course to understand “Business and the New Dynamics of International Trade: The Cases of Singapore and Thailand,” with Jerry Nickelsburg, adjunct full professor of economics and director of the UCLA Anderson Forecast

During winter break, 38 students from all four of UCLA Anderson’s MBA programs - full-time, fully employed, executive and UCLA-NUS executive MBA visited Singapore and Bangkok for the in-country week of the CGM’s global immersion course, “Business and the New Dynamics of International Trade: The Cases of Singapore and Thailand,” led by Jerry Nickelsburg, adjunct full professor of economics and director of the UCLA Anderson Forecast.

Over the last four decades, southeast Asia has been the locus of rapidly growing, globalized, emerging economies. As the most successful countries moved into the realm of middle to upper income, growth rates have slowed, but opportunities for international business still abound. Indeed, the two most successful countries in Southeast Asia, Singapore and Thailand are heavily dependent on foreign direct investment and exports. The international trading system and globalization are now being questioned in many quarters. The old guard that fostered the dramatic growth of Singapore and Thailand have now passed the torch to a new generation of leaders. These two countries, with similar growth patterns but very different socio-economic structures, provided an ideal contrast to study how these winds of change affect business opportunities, investment and profitability; particularly with regard to manufacturing, technology, finance, and trade. Throughout the course, students learned how these two countries, with similar successful economic trajectories, but different risk backdrops face a changing world economic system. They must adapt to new demands for consumerism by their population, increased inter-Asian trade, a changing geopolitical environment, the advent of the Trans-Pacific Partnership (TPP) and China’s One Belt One Road initiative in order to foster a continued, healthy business environment. Through both on-campuses classes, followed by one-week in both Singapore and Bangkok, students explored these areas in the context of manufacturing, technology, trade, and finance. A key objective of the course was to understand the economic, social and cultural background of business in light of the changing world trade patterns in recent years and what the changing world order means for economic structure, business strategy and business risk and opportunities. Although this was the second and third time that a global immersion course had visited Singapore and Thailand respectively, it was the first time that a course had focused on and visited both Singapore and Thailand together.

UCLA Anderson’s dual-degree partner, NUS Business School hosted the inaugural sessions in its Mochtar Riady building where the students were warmly greeted by Professor Luh Luh Lan, academic director of the UCLA-NUS EMBA program. CGM founding board member and UCLA Anderson alumna Hwee Hua Lim (’89), former cabinet minister in the Prime Minister’s Office delivered the perfect inaugural address - a discussion on navigating the local and ASEAN political and economic environments which also touched on the role of government and set an extremely important framework politically and economically for the week. This was followed by a discussion with Lin Teck Tan, director of the future economy planning office for the Ministry of Trade and Industry. He addressed what Singapore is doing to prepare for its future economy, including deepening and diversifying its international connections; acquiring and utilizing deep skills; and building strong digital capabilities. Dionisis Kolokotsas, head of competition and economic policy for Asia-Pacific at Google later presented on Asia-Pacific’s public policy landscape. He addressed internet use in APAC and southeast Asia’s digital economy. He also explained the motivations for policy initiatives and policy areas, including privacy, data, cross border flows and platform regulations and the importance of Singapore as a global trade partner and driver of policy making. During a visit to Microsoft Singapore, chief technology officer Richard Koh also described Microsoft’s transformation and explained how the company had needed to adapt itself over the year to remain relevant in a fast-paced changing environment. In Singapore, students also visited the Monetary Authority of Singapore (MAS), the country’s central bank and integrated financial regulator. They learned about Singapore’s approach to monetary policy and the role and functions of the MAS from Alvin Teo, deputy director in the monetary and domestic markets management area and Dr. Keen Meng Choy, executive director in the economic analysis department. Students also enjoyed a tour of the MAS gallery to learn more about the role of MAS in issuing currency, conducting monetary policy, managing Singapore’s official foreign reserves, regulating and supervising the financial sector, and promoting Singapore as an international financial center. The gallery also highlighted MAS’ efforts in raising financial literacy, and offered a glimpse of how technology and innovation could transform the future of financial services.

Students learned more about cross-border business between Singapore and the larger Asia Pacific region during a visit to Rakuten Asia where they were greeted by UCLA Anderson alumnus Ameya Khasgiwala (’19), senior manager at Rakuten. Founded in 1997 as an e-commerce B2B2C company during the early years of the internet, over the years, Rakuten has expanded overseas into areas such as banking and e-money. In 2010, the company accelerated its global business and shifted from a Japan-based venture to a global internet services company. Over the last few years, the company further explored new business models building Rakuten’s brand overseas through global partnerships with FC Barcelona and the NBA’s Golden State Warriors. Students heard from Hirofumi Jujo Maeda, manager of the regional coordination about the company’s different businesses and services in the region and around the world. They also learned about Asia as an investment business from Anh Sae Min, managing partner for Rakuten Ventures, the venture capital arm of Rakuten Group who invests in diverse verticals such as advertising technology, artificial intelligence and on-demand business around the world. Given the overarching theme of the course, a visit to Singapore would not be complete without a visit to the Port of Singapore to understand Singapore’s port industry and how the country’s logistics industry has developed into what it is today and its role as an important maritime logistics hub. The Port of Singapore is ranked as the top maritime capital of the world and is the world’s second busiest port in terms of total shipping tonnage and the world’s busiest transshipment port. Singapore lacks land and natural resources and therefore the Port is an economic necessity. Students toured the harbor and visited the Singapore Maritime gallery which tells the story of Singapore's transformation from a small trading post into a premier global hub port and leading international maritime center.

Students then traveled to Bangkok. The inaugural sessions provided excellent overviews and introductions to the economic, political and business environment of Thailand. Sarawan Dever, deputy director of the American Chamber of Commerce discussed the role of AmCham Thailand, reviewed Singapore-Thailand relations and provided an introduction to the business environment. He also addressed the importance of understanding Thailand’s culture and history for business success. Ricardo Ortiz, an ASEAN specialist, foreign policy analyst and lecturer at Stamford International University discussed Thailand's political environment and efforts to democratize Thailand with its plethora of coups; and Steven Anderson, commercial attaché at the U.S. Embassy Bangkok shared his perspectives on the impact of the U.S.-China trade war on Thailand’s economy and its role in international trade.

During a visit to the Bank of Thailand, students learned about Thailand’s financial landscape from Siripim Vimolchalao, deputy director in the financial institutions strategy area and how the Bank of Thailand is thinking about changes in a rapidly changing world order particularly in regard to the new digital world and how the 1997 crisis informs policy. At Asia Honda Motor, students enjoyed a factory tour and learned about Honda Motorcycle’s manufacturing and business operations in Asia, Honda’s business history in Thailand and the success of multi-nationals in the country. At Taskworld, a cloud-based collaboration platform, Reza Behnam, CEO and co-founder shared his experience and insights on global technology companies operating in Thailand. Later at Western Digital, a long-time innovator and storage industry leader, students heard from Chee Mak, director and HR business partner to better understand Thailand as a hub for global electrical appliance manufacturers. He also touched on the company’s amazing recovery after the floods. Students also enjoyed a tour of its factory showcasing the company’s manufacturing technology.

On the last day in Bangkok, students had the opportunity to hear about diplomacy and trade from UCLA alumnus Kantathi Suphamongkhon (B.S. ’76), Thailand’s 39th Minister of Foreign Affair; learn about intellectual property protection in Thailand and climate change as a tool from Fabrice Mattei, country manager and climate change and IP group head at Rouse, an IP services business focused on emerging markets. They also enjoyed a presentation on Thailand's technology industry and aerospace from double Bruin Varayuth “James” Yenbamroong (BSc '07, MSc ’10), CEO and founder, Mu Space Corp. A Thai-based start-up company founded in 2017, Mu Space develops satellite communication technologies that will accelerate the adoption of Internet of Things devices and smart cities. It also plans to lead space tourism in Asia.

During the week, students witnessed the influence and wonderful support and engagement of UCLA alumni in both Singapore and Thailand. In Singapore, the week officially opened with an alumni networking reception at the NUSS Graduate Club Suntec City with alumni from UCLA Anderson’s FTMBA and Ph.D. programs as well as a number of UCLA-NUS EMBA current students and alumni. UCLA-NUS EMBA alumnus and John Wooden fellow Ryan Tan (’19) was instrumental in facilitating high impact speakers and visits too. In Bangkok, Professor Jerry Nickelsburg moderated a panel discussion with UCLA Anderson alumni Poom Vorasetakarnkij (’06), Nattawin Phongsphetrarat (’99) and Pakkawan Pongpornprot (’08) who shared their career trajectory post- UCLA Anderson as well as their thoughts and insights on business and the new dynamics of international trade from both their personal as well as own industry perspective. Following the discussion, students networked with UCLA Anderson alumni, current students as well as recent admits.

During the week, students also experienced local culture, visited key sites of important historic significance and enjoyed local cuisine. In Singapore, UCLA-NUS EMBA alumnus Kevin Yap (’19) hosted the group at his Straits Chinese Restaurant and served authentic Peranakan cuisine epitomizing the region. Also before the start of the academic sessions, students enjoyed a Sunday afternoon tour of the island city-state where they explored the Marina Bay area and visited the Marina Bay Sands Hotel and its observation deck, SkyPark for terrific views over Singapore. Students also visited the famous Singapore landmark Merlion Park, experienced Clarke Quay and Little India and also visited the colonial-style luxury Raffles Hotel. In Bangkok, in between sessions, students enjoyed a visit to Wat Pho, the Temple of the Reclining Buddha and enjoyed a boat tour to see the Wat Arun, Buddhist Temple of Dawn. At the conclusion of the week, some students headed to explore other parts of southeast Asia.

x
Learn more...
Monday, December 2, 2019 6:00 PM The Beverly Hilton, Beverly Hills

2019 John Wooden Global Leadership Award Dinner Benefitting the 2019 John Wooden Fellows and Honoring Mellody Hobson, Co-CEO of Ariel Investments and one of TIME Magazine’s 100 Most Influential People

On Monday, December 2, 2019, UCLA Anderson recognized Mellody Hobson, co-CEO of Ariel Investments, vice chair of Starbucks and director of JP Morgan Chase with the John Wooden Global Leadership Award, at a gala dinner held at The Beverly Hilton Hotel in Beverly Hills. The distinction, named for legendary UCLA basketball coach, author and leadership expert John Wooden (1910–2010), is presented each year to an exceptional leader whose leadership style and service to the community reflect the same high standards of performance, integrity and ethical values set by Wooden.

Hobson was chosen as this year's Wooden Award recipient in recognition of her business leadership, her philanthropic and community-building activities and her strong advocacy of financial literacy and investor education. "Mellody Hobson has demonstrated principled, outstanding leadership throughout her career," UCLA Anderson Dean Antonio Bernardo said. "She is a passionate advocate for financial literacy and investor education, and her boardroom service and skills have benefited many communities, including her hometown of Chicago." At the banquet, Jeffrey Katzenberg, entertainment executive and co-founder and managing partner of WndrCo engaged Hobson in an on-stage conversation about leadership, values and the Wooden legacy. “Mellody is completely unafraid to speak up for what she feels is right," Katzenberg said. "I have seen time and time again that what she feels is right, is right." In accepting the award, Hobson recalled that early in her career she had read books about great investors and about great coaches, including Wooden. "I love the fact that he said honesty was non-negotiable," she said. "I will cherish this award because of what John Wooden represented, and accept it with humility."

Hobson, who was recruited to Ariel by founder John Rogers when she was still a Princeton undergraduate, began at the investment management firm as a summer intern and rose to become its president, serving in that role for two decades. In July, she was appointed Ariel's co-CEO and is now its largest shareholder. Hobson is a nationally recognized voice for financial literacy and investor education. She serves as a financial expert in frequent media appearances on CBS News and other outlets, and authors a regular column for Black Enterprise Magazine. An active philanthropist and community-builder in her hometown of Chicago and elsewhere, she also channels her financial expertise as a board member of Starbucks, JPMorgan Chase and Quibi, a short-form video content company founded by Katzenberg. In a powerful 2014 TED talk titled "Color Blind or Color Brave?" Hobson urged Americans to engage in more open, even uncomfortable conversations about race, calling such exchanges a clear pathway to better businesses and a better society. In 2015, Time Magazine named her one of the 100 Most Influential People in the World.

The audience of around 650 included UCLA Anderson Board of Advisors members and other generous supporters, along with members of Coach Wooden’s family, members of the Anderson family together with Basketball Hall of Famers Jamaal Wilkes (B.A. ’74) and Ann Meyers Drysdale (B.A. ’79) joined past Wooden Fellows, current UCLA Anderson students, alumni, faculty and senior leadership from across the UCLA campus for a ceremony that included a welcome by 2008-2018 Wooden fellows. Three-time Emmy-winning actor Beau Bridges, who played for Coach Wooden at UCLA and stayed close to him throughout his life, made a special appearance to pay tribute to the coach.

Net proceeds from the annual dinner fund four $35,000 John Wooden Global Leadership Fellowships, given to deserving UCLA Anderson students who embody Coach Wooden’s leadership ideals and commitment to improving the lives of others. During the ceremony, the four 2019 fellowship recipients Amanda Beck (FTMBA ’20), Danielle Schlegel (EMBA ’20), Rob Busalacchi (FEMBA ’20) and Apichaya Taechamahapun (UCLA-NUS EMBA ’20) were recognized and awarded the John Wooden Global Leadership Fellowship, which is among the most prestigious honors Anderson students can receive. They took the stage to express their thoughts on what Coach Wooden’s values-based leadership means to them. Wooden Fellows are honored because they possess his focus on ethics, team spirit, skill, hard work and loyalty, along with a commitment to constant learning, continual improvement and innovation.

UCLA Anderson, in partnership with Coach John Wooden’s family, honors one exceptional leader each year with this prestigious award for his or her exemplary leadership and service to the community. Past recipients of the John Wooden Global Leadership Award include: Reed Hastings, co-founder and CEO, Netflix (2018); Kevin Plank, chairman and CEO, Under Armour (2017); W. James McNerney Jr., retired president, CEO and chairman, the Boeing Company (2016); Ursula Burns, chairman and CEO of Xerox (2015); Paul E. Jacobs, executive chairman of Qualcomm Inc. (2014); Bob Iger, chairman and CEO of The Walt Disney Company (2013); Indra Nooyi, chairman and CEO of PepsiCo (2012); Peter Ueberroth, managing director of Contrarian Group (2011); Frederick W. Smith, chairman, president and CEO of FedEx (2010); Kenneth Chenault, chairman and CEO of American Express (2009); and Howard Schultz, chairman, president and CEO of Starbucks (2008).

x
Learn more...
November 18-22, 2019

Celebrating International Education Week at UCLA

International Education Week (IEW) is a joint initiative of the U.S. Departments of State and Education dedicated to international education and exchange worldwide. The 2019 IEW ran from November 18-22, 2019. For the fourth year in a row, the UCLA International Institute led a large-scale UCLA celebration of International Education Week to celebrate international education and exchange, campus diversity, global perspectives and global citizenship on campus. The week offered Bruins a multitude of opportunities to learn about various international educational programs, research and scholarships; discover a wide range of global volunteer and career opportunities; interact with alumni working in the international sphere; enjoy performances and activities reflecting the diversity of global cultures at UCLA; and engage in discussions with international students, faculty and university leaders. The UCLA International Institute, together with a team of campus partners, including UCLA Study Abroad, Dashew Center for International Students and Scholars, UCLA Residential Life and the UCLA Library planned a weeklong celebration of international education with 26 cosponsors, including the UCLA Anderson Center for Global Management. This was the largest number of events ever organized on campus for IEW. The week showcased UCLA’s extensive international education resources that were informative, fun and intellectually stimulating including cultural performances, career events, fellowship information sessions and lectures on global issues. Featured events included information sessions on FLAS/Fulbright, leveraging the study abroad experience in the job search process, Peace Corps recruitment, the evolving cybersecurity policy landscape, and a discussion on what being a global citizen means in 2019 as well as an alumni panel discussion on careers in a globalized world. As part of IEW, on Tuesday, November 19, the Center for Global Management also hosted a lunchtime discussion on “The Value of Authenticity in Global Business” with Aaron Walton, co-founder and CEO, Walton Isaacson. Moderated by Dean Antonio Bernardo, this event was part of the CGM’s Robertson Lecture Series on Global Business Leadership and also proudly featured as part of this year’s UCLA Anderson Embracing Diversity Week too.

Later that evening, the “UCLA Global Conversation,” the featured event of UCLA’s celebration of IEW took place in UCLA’s Powell Library which attracted the largest audience: 140 students, faculty, staff, deans, vice chancellors and vice provosts from across the university. To mark the occasion of UCLA's Centennial, Chancellor Gene Block spoke about the importance of global education in the 21st century and UCLA’s efforts in the area. This was followed by a moderated discussion with Jayathi Murthy, dean of UCLA’s Henry Samueli School of Engineering and Applied Science. Welcome and introductory remarks were provided by Cindy Fan, vice provost for international studies and global engagement. Chancellor Block said at the event that he thinks it’s beneficial for students to immerse themselves in a culture that challenges their perspectives, adding that some of the best work is done in diverse environments. He described global access as UCLA’s ability to serve as a home for students from all over the world and said adopting a global perspective isn’t limited to studying abroad. He added that UCLA’s diverse environment and international student body allow international interaction without having to leave campus. He also shared two initiatives that UCLA is working on in order to leave a larger global footprint: creating a sustainable community and reducing the burden of clinical depression. Both of these goals make up the university’s Grand Challenges. Work, research and culture in the world are increasingly global in nature — a reality clearly apparent on our campus. UCLA is not only remarkable for the diversity of its faculty and student body, but for the breadth of its scope and impact. Bruins pursue undergraduate and graduate international studies in a broad swathe of disciplines, one out of four UCLA undergraduates study abroad, a large percentage of faculty and students conduct research on global issues, and international students and visiting scholars bring unique perspectives to our classrooms. UCLA Alumni Association chapters, moreover, are active in countries all over the globe. One of the major goals of vice provost Cindy Fan is to enable as many UCLA students as possible — regardless of discipline or major — to gain international experience via campus classes, study abroad programs and international research, internships and/or work opportunities. Those experiences change students’ lives, give them a broader perspective on the world and prepare them, as future leaders, to address the many global problems that require collaborative solutions. All of these goals, together with the campus units that support them, are celebrated during International Education Week.

x
Learn more...
Thursday, November 21, 2019 4.30-6.30 p.m., North Terrace

2019 Fall International Food Festival – Celebrating Diversity while Taking Taste Buds on a World Tour!

On November 21, 2019, students from the International Business Association (IBA) organized UCLA Anderson’s largest food festival - International Food Festival Fall 2019 (IFF Fall 2019). This annual tradition, supported by the Center for Global Management, Office of Equity, Diversity and Inclusion, MBA Student Affairs and ASA, showcases, celebrates and embraces the international culture and diversity of UCLA Anderson through a universal form of expression — food. The event was held on the North Terrace in place of Anderson Afternoons and was featured as part of UCLA Anderson’s Embracing Diversity Week’s programming. The beautiful ambience was spiced up as UCLA Anderson students from different countries gathered together to experience different cultures through cuisines from all over the world. Adding to the ambience were decorations – the false roof created by bright lights and international mini flags. Stalls decorated with regional handiwork only added to the elegance of the event.

The celebration was attended by more than 300 current and prospective students from across UCLA Anderson’s various degree programs, faculty and staff as well as friends and family. The event featured 14 different cuisines from India, China, Taiwan, Israel, Korea, Nigeria, Indonesia, Japan, France, Cuba, Greece, Italy, Argentina and other parts of Latin America. Host students, representing different student clubs at UCLA Anderson from around the world, sourced authentic food from some of the best restaurants across Los Angeles. Some students also dressed up in their country’s and/or region’s traditional attire and spent time conversing with the guests to explain the details of the food served such as special occasion when it is consumed and cooking ingredients and methods. While a collection of appetizers provided by the South Asian Business Association built up the appetite, desserts from the European Business Association made the atmosphere a bit sweeter. Cultural diversity was also on display through international music and student hosts sharing facts and customs about their own countries.

The Critics’ Choice Award for the best tables was judged on the basis of providing the best cultural experience. The decision was a difficult one to make. The two winners selected by judges from FTMBA Student Affairs and Office of Equity, Diversity and Inclusion, included the Black Business Students Association for its chicken wings and puff puffs and the European Business Association for its assortment of macrons.

IBA is grateful to the Center for Global Management, the Office of Equity, Diversity and Inclusion, ASA and MBA Student Affairs for supporting the event and ensuring that UCLA Anderson remains an open and inclusive environment that embraces, celebrates and values diversity. In addition to the IBA, participating student clubs included: South Asian Business Association, Japan America Business Association, Anderson Christian Fellowship, Strategy & Operations Management Association, Anderson Latino Management Association, Greater China Business Association, Korean Business Student Association, European Business Association, Southeast Asia Business Association, Jewish Business Student Association, Asian Management Student Association, Black Business Students Association, Anderson Eats, and AnderTech.

x
Learn more...
Tuesday, November 19, 2019 11:30am-12.30pm, Korn Convocation Hall

Robertson Lecture Series on Global Business Leadership with Aaron Walton, co-founder and CEO, Walton Isaacson, on “The Value of Authenticity in Global Business”

On Tuesday, November 19, 2019, the Center for Global Management hosted Aaron Walton, co-founder and CEO of the powerhouse global advertising agency Walton Isaacson, for a fireside chat with Tony Bernardo, dean and John E. Anderson Chair in Management. During a moderated conversation, Walton offered his insights on authenticity and diversity as keys to breakthrough impact for both consumers and employees. He spoke about authenticity and its value in global business, the importance of giving people a voice and the power that diversity has to grow businesses. Drawing on the professional experience he has developed over the past 25+ years, Walton shared stories of the business experiences that unleashed his own inspiring individual style, and offered his thoughts about the kinds of global experiences that may best prepare today’s leaders to thrive in increasingly dynamic and diverse organizations. A private luncheon followed in the executive dining where discussions continued. Walton’s boundless creativity and strategic acumen have made him one of the most admired executives throughout the advertising, brand marketing and entertainment industries. He received the Lifetime Achievement Award at the 2019 Multicultural Media Luncheon during the North American International Auto show and was named a Pride Legacy Leader by Business Equality magazine. He was also honored in 2017 by the American Association of Advertising Agencies as one of the 100 People Who Make Advertising Great. In 2013, Walton was elected to the Ebony Magazine “POWER 100” list, an award given to the nation’s most influential Americans from the worlds of religion, business, media and the creative arts. WI was founded in 2005 in partnership with famed NBA superstar and entrepreneurial legend, Earvin “Magic” Johnson. The company’s mission has been a breakout success, leading to inventive and dynamic business relationships with brands and organizations including Lexus, Wells Fargo, Spalding, McDonald’s, NYPD, and Macy’s. Around 250 UCLA and UCLA Anderson students, alumni, faculty, staff as well as members of the Los Angeles World Affairs Council & Town Hall and the Los Angeles community registered for the event that took place in UCLA Anderson’s Korn Convocation Hall. Opening remarks were provided by Ezra Glenn, MBA candidate from the Class of 2020 and the Anderson Student Association VP for Diversity, Inclusion and Community. The event which was part of the CGM’s Robertson Lecture Series on Global Business Leadership, organized by the Center for Global Management, supported by the Los Angeles World Affairs Council & Town Hall and proudly featured as part of this year’s UCLA Anderson Embracing Diversity Week and UCLA International Education Week.

x
Learn more...
Wednesday, November 6, 2019 4:30 – 6:00 PM

“Israel’s Technology Economy: Origins and Impact,” UCLA Anderson School of Management

In his book, Israel’s Technology Economy: Origins and Impact (Palgrave Mcmillan, 2018), David Rosenberg documents how Israel emerged as one of the world’s leading centers of high technology over the last three decades and the impact that it has had, or failed to have, on the wider economy and politics. Based on the study of start-up companies, Rosenberg attributes the rise of Israel’s tech economy to its unique history, political system, and culture, and shows how those same factors have failed it in the quest to diversify Israel’s economy to make it more inclusive and equitable. On Wednesday, November 6, in the late afternoon, over 50 students, faculty and members of the local community enjoyed a presentation and discussion with Haaretz journalist David Rosenberg on his new book and the topics that it addressed. Stuart Gabriel, Arden Realty Chair and Professor of Finance who leads the Center for Global Management’s technology-focused global immersion courses to Israel, introduced the discussion. Rosenberg is economics editor and columnist for the Haaretz newspaper (English edition). He previously served as Bureau Chief for Bloomberg News and Business Editor for The Jerusalem Post. This event was organized by the Younes and Soraya Nazarian Center for Israel Studies and co-sponsored by the UCLA Anderson Center for Global Management.

x
Learn more...
Wednesday, November 6, 2019 11:30 AM – 12:30 PM, Dean’s Conference Room

Lunch Series on “The Transpacific Experiment: How China and California Collaborate and Compete for Our Future” with author, Matt Sheehan

Tensions between the world’s superpowers are mounting in Washington, D.C. and Beijing. Yet the People’s Republic of China and the state of California have built deep and interdependent socioeconomic exchanges that reverberate across the globe, and these interactions make California a microcosm of the most important international relationship of the twenty-first century. On Wednesday, November 6, UCLA hosted Matt Sheehan for an interactive lunchtime conversation on his new book, The Transpacific Experiment. Through rich reporting in his home state of California and a perspective gleaned from years of living and reporting in China, Kai-Fu Lee, former president of Google China described the book as “a must-read” as “Sheehan cuts right to the heart of the relationship between Silicon Valley and China: the tangled history, the current tensions, and the uncertain future.” Sheehan’s on-the-ground reporting reveals movie sets in the “Hollywood of China,” Chinese-funded housing projects in San Francisco, Chinese immigrants who support Donald Trump, and more. Each of these stories lays bare the new reality of twenty-first-century superpowers: the closer they get to one another, the more personal their frictions become. The lunchtime discussion, facilitated by Jerry Nickelsburg, adjunct professor and director of the UCLA Anderson Forecast addressed the issues and topics that the book raised and more and stimulated many fascinating and thought-provoking questions from students in UCLA Anderson’s full-time, fully employed and executive MBA programs. Sheehan also discussed the role of California and its importance to the new era of U.S.-China relations, the transformation of Shenzhen and the rise of TikTok, a consumer social media platform in China with global currency. Matt Sheehan is a non-resident fellow at The Paulson Institute’s think tank, MacroPolo, where he researches the growing ties between the two places he has called home: California and China. Sheehan grew up in the San Francisco Bay Area and spent over five years living in mainland China. He served as the first China correspondent for The WorldPost and is fluent in spoken and written Mandarin Chinese. Sheehan’s writing has been published in Vice News, Foreign Policy, and The Atlantic. He is based in Oakland, California. The luncheon was organized by the UCLA Anderson Center for Global Management and supported by the Greater China Business Association.

x
Learn more...
Thursday, October 31, 2019 11:30 AM – 12:30 PM, Dean’s Conference Room

Lunch Series with Javier Guzman, Vice Governor of the Central Bank of Mexico on “Mexico’s Economic Outlook and Monetary Policy”

On Thursday, October 31, UCLA welcomed to campus Javier Guzman, vice governor of the Central Bank of Mexico. He was joined by Marlen Marroquin, executive regional director at the U.S.-Mexico Chamber of Commerce California Regional Chapter. Following a meeting with Chris Erickson, senior associate vice provost and director of the UCLA International Institute and professor Ruben Hernandez-Leon, director of the Center for Mexican Studies, students from the full-time, executive and fully employed MBA programs, including many from Mexico, Peru and Brazil together with Ph.D. and masters students studying Latin American, Chicana and Chicano studies as well as sociology had a unique opportunity to hear from the vice governor during an interactive lunchtime conversation organized by UCLA Anderson’s Latin American Business Association and Center for Global Management.

During the luncheon, Guzman provided an overview of the general situation in Mexico, including the economic outlook for the country and its relations with the U.S. He also discussed monetary policy and the important role of the Central Bank in the financial stability of the country. Various topics were also addressed including trade and the USMCA, as well as political and geopolitical problems globally that are creating an atmosphere of uncertainty. Guzman also explained what Mexico is facing on the domestic front. He addressed Mexico’s economic activity which has been declining and the uncertainty that is coming from both domestic and external factors, as well as the perception of country risk. The luncheon provided a terrific opportunity for students to hear insights, perspectives and deep knowledge around these critical topics from such a prominent and accomplished figure in Mexico. Guzman has served in this role since February, 2013 and will remain in the position through December, 2020. From 1994 to 1999, he served as an advisor, alternate executive director, and executive director at the International Monetary Fund, representing Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, Mexico, Nicaragua, Spain, and Venezuela. He also worked as an advisor for Ernesto Zedillo, former President of Mexico, in the High Level Group on Financing for Development, established by the UN Secretary General in support of the International Conference on Financing for Development in Monterrey. In 2008, the Center for Latin American Studies’ (CEMLA) Assembly elected Guzman general director of that institution. He held that position from January 2010 to February 2013. Guzman is also the author of many articles in international trade and finance, foreign debt, capital flight, monetary and exchange rate policy, and international organizations, among others. The luncheon was organized by UCLA Anderson’s Latin American Business Association and Center for Global Management and supported by the United States-Mexico Chamber of Commerce California Regional Chapter.

x
Learn more...
Tuesday, October 29, 2019 9:00 AM

OUE U.S. Bank Tower Asia’s Future is Now

For years, Western observers and media have been talking about the rise of Asia in terms of its massive and future potential. But the time has come for the rest of the world to update its thinking. The question is no longer how quickly the region will rise; it is how Asia will lead. To enable business leaders to better develop new strategies and thrive in the Asian Century, on Tuesday, October 29, the Asia Society Southern California collaborated with the McKinsey Global Institute (MGI), featuring expert perspectives to discuss Asia’s future. The morning discussion featured Jeongmin Seong, senior fellow at the MGI who shared insights from McKinsey’s research series on the Future of Asia. Seong leads MGI’s research teams in China, working on global as well as China-focused themes. He deciphered the region’s many facets, from trade flows and the corporate ecosystem to technology and the Asian consumer. Expert panelists included Walter Wang, head of operations at TSM and Terry Kramer, adjunct professor and faculty director of UCLA Anderson’s Easton Technology Management Center who teaches the CGM’s global immersion course focused on technology transformation in China. The discussion was moderated by Ira Kasoff, a board member of the Asia Society Southern California. The Center for Global Management supported a number of executive, fully employed and full-time MBA students to attend the discussion and learn more about expert perspectives on the Asian Century and how Asia, more than any other region of the world will shape the next phase of globalization.

x
Learn more...
Thursday, October 24, 2019, 6:30 PM-9:00 PM

Global Business & Policy Forum BREXIT: The Future of the City of London and Implications for the Global Economy,” UCLA Anderson School of Management

Great Britain is in crisis. Its government is divided over the nation’s withdrawal from the European Union (EU), known as Brexit, and has been unable to agree on an approach to the country’s biggest peacetime decision in decades. A fervent proponent of withdrawal, Britain’s Prime Minister Boris Johnson suspended parliament and critics have accused the Conservative leader of using the five-week suspension to avoid democratic scrutiny as he bids to deliver his pledge to bring the United Kingdom out of the European Union by October 31, with or without a deal. What ultimately emerges could determine the shape of Britain and its place in the world for decades. The Fed has explicitly mentioned Brexit uncertainty as one potential factor weighing on the U.S. outlook and a no-deal Brexit could cause a period of volatility in global financial markets. How did the UK get to this point? What is the future facing London, the UK and the EU? If the pound falls sharply in response to no-deal, what are the implications for the U.S., the U.K.’s largest single-country trading partner. On October 24, the UCLA Anderson Center for Global Management and UCLA School of Law's Lowell Milken Institute for Business Law and Policy hosted its inaugural global business and policy forum of the academic year.

CGM founding board member, Toby Raymond (’86), managing director, Access Equity Management Ltd. who relocated to London in 1992 and has since worked in London’s global financial markets addressed these questions and more to provide insights and perspectives on the future of Europe and what Brexit means for the United States and the world. He provided an overview on the trajectory and timeline of EU treaties and events in Europe, including expansion of the EU in 2004, the global financial crisis in 2008 and the Greek sovereign debt crisis in 2011. He addressed EU-UK interactions, including the referendum to join the EEC in 1974 and the Maastricht treaty in 1992. Raymond also discussed pertinent events in the UK, such as the economic crisis in 1976, the big bang and deregulation of UK financial markets in 1986, the Good Friday Agreement in 1999 and then the UKIP, EU referendum in 2016. Then, during a moderated conversation with Sebastian Edwards, Henry Ford II Chair in International Management, Raymond touched on some of the key issues for Brexit and the EU, including voter grievances, the customs union, immigration and freedom of movement, sovereignty and political independence as well as the dissatisfaction with the EU bureaucracy. Over dinner, there were many interactive table conversations where specific questions were discussed among the students, including: What will the financial services industry looks like five years from now – in the UK and globally? How are the regulatory and political constraints impacting the financial services industry and what will be the impact of technology? Students were also asked to comment on how the issues and contexts that have emerged in the UK during the Brexit referendum and process are being reflected around the world and whether this is specific to the UK or similar in other countries? The discussion engaged 90 students and faculty from the UCLA Anderson School of Management and the UCLA School of Law. The Global Business and Policy Forum is a collaborative partnership between UCLA Anderson’s Center for Global Management and the UCLA School of Law's Lowell Milken Institute for Business Law and Policy.

x
Learn more...
Thursday, October 24, 2019, 4.30pm Anderson Afternoon North Terrace

Celebrating Diwali at UCLA Anderson

To celebrate the international diversity of UCLA Anderson, the Center for Global Management actively supports cultural events hosted by international student clubs such as the South Asian Business Association (SABA). SABA promotes familiarity and understanding of the South Asian culture and traditions among Anderson students during their annual flagship event, the Diwali Festival. Diwali or Deepavali is the festival of lights that marks the victory of good over evil. It is celebrated every year in the fall, usually in the months of October and November in the northern hemisphere (spring in the southern hemisphere). On October 24, 2019, over 350 domestic and international students attended the weekly Anderson Afternoons which was transformed by SABA to celebrate the Diwali Festival. UCLA Anderson’s North Terrace was decorated with diyas (lamps), traditional Indian food was served, and members of SABA were dressed in traditional Indian attire. Various aspects of the Indian culture were on display with performances of a Bhangra dance and a Bollywood dance showcase by SABA members. Other activities to engage the over 350 attendees included a mehndi/henna hand tattoo stall and showcase of ‘rangoli’ (colorful art). Earlier in the day, Indian sweets were distributed by SABA members to all five sections of first year full-time MBA classes to begin the celebration of Diwali and help educate classmates of the history of the festival.

x
Learn more...
Monday, October 21, 2019 11:30 AM

City Club Los Angeles LA: The Global City with Los Angeles Mayor Eric Garcetti

During a Los Angeles World Affairs Council & Town Hall lunchtime conversation at the City Club Los Angeles on Monday, October 21, Los Angeles Mayor Eric Garcetti joined moderator Terry McCarthy, former president, Los Angeles World Affairs Council, for a moderated discussion on Los Angeles as a premier global city and international gateway for the 2028 Summer Olympics. He described the benchmarks for a safe, livable and prosperous global city, the role that climate change plays and also addressed the homelessness issue in the city and the importance of housing, infrastructure and transportation. Mayor Garcetti is a fourth generation Angeleno and the 42nd Mayor of Los Angeles. His Agenda is focused on creating a safe, livable, and prosperous city. As a member of the LAWAC, the Center for Global Management supports attendance of UCLA Anderson students to LAWAC discussions and events.

x
Learn more...
Tuesday, October 15, 2019 11:30 AM Millennium Biltmore Hotel, Downtown Los Angeles

The Value of an Inclusive Economy with Mary C. Daly, President & CEO of the Federal Reserve Bank of San Francisco

America’s economic expansion is now in its tenth year. Unemployment rates are near historic lows. Does this mean the U.S. economy has reached its full potential? Not quite. Data tells us that considerable talent is still being left on the table – from rural populations with limited job opportunities to lower-income Americans struggling to access education. On Tuesday, October 15, Mary C. Daly, president and CEO of the Federal Reserve Bank of San Francisco addressed the Los Angeles World Affairs Council & Town Hall during a luncheon at the Biltmore Hotel on “The Value of an Inclusive Economy.” Daly discussed the value of having these communities more fully participating in our economy – and why inclusive success is essential to America's future economic competitiveness. The Center for Global Management is a member of the LAWAC & Town Hall who generously invited UCLA Anderson students to attend the special luncheon on this important issue. Mary C. Daly became the thirteenth president and chief executive officer of the Federal Reserve Bank of San Francisco on October 1, 2018. She joined the San Francisco Fed in 1996 as a research economist and held positions of increasing responsibility, including vice president, group vice president, and senior vice president and associate director of research. She became the Bank’s executive vice president and director of research in 2017.

x
Learn more...
Tuesday, October 15, 2019 11:30 AM – 12:30 PM Executive Dining Room

Lunch Series on “The Global Media and Entertainment Industry” with Jon Niermann (’95), President and CEO, Loop Media, Inc.; Founder, FarWest Entertainment; Former President, The Walt Disney Coo. Asia-Pacific and Former President, Electronic Arts, Asia Pacific

On Tuesday, October 15, the Center for Global Management welcomed to campus, Jon Niermann (’95), a member of the CGM’s advisory board and alumnus of the FEMBA program. Niermann built his entertainment career of over 30 years with The Walt Disney Company and Electronic Arts, prior to starting his own media companies, FarWest Entertainment (2010), a multi-platform (television, music, live, animation, digital) media and entertainment company that focused on bridging Asia-inspired content with Western themes in addition to bringing Western formats to Asia; and Loop Media, Inc. (2016), a premium short-form video streaming service for public venues that provides music videos to businesses in all 50 states and plans to expand internationally and launch a consumer service in 2020. The company recently announced plans for an initial public offering in the fall of 2019. The luncheon provided an opportunity for MBA students across degree programs and class years who are pursuing the global management specialization and/or are members of UCLA Anderson’s Entertainment Management Association (EMA) to meet with Niermann in an informal and interactive setting and hear about his career trajectory post UCLA Anderson, his thoughts and insights on the global media and entertainment industry, as well as his experiences working on the business and creative sides of large companies and then venturing into the entrepreneurial world full-time with his own media companies. During the luncheon, he highlighted some of his projects over the years, including his “on camera” roles and Asia’s only Pan-Asian music countdown radio program “Asia Pop 4.” He shared his experiences living and working in Asia where he was based for almost 15 years and also discussed his latest venture with Loop Media, which in 2018, purchased Screenplay Entertainment and now has the world’s largest music video and movie trailer libraries. Niermann shared words of wisdom with students interested in entering the many different facets of the media and entertainment space and highlighted the importance of networking, relationships and partners when entering markets.

x
Learn more...
Thursday, October 10, 2019 11:30 AM - 12:30 PM Dean's Conference Room

Lunch Series on "Female Entrepreneurship in the European Union: A Comparison with the United States" - A discussion with successful female entrepreneurs and a politician from Lithuania and the E.U.

On Thursday, October 10, the Center for Global Management hosted a luncheon with Ruta Miliute, Kristina Laima Alekniene and Ieva Zumiene, three successful female leaders from the European Union who have pursued the entrepreneurial and/or political path. The luncheon provided an opportunity for interested MBA students to meet with three successful and driven leaders from the European Union who shared their own successful career trajectories and discussed what it means to start a business in one country and then extend to the greater European Union, home to 24 official languages with different cultures and traditions. From their own different perspectives and diverse ventures, they also shared their thoughts and insights on the differences and similarities between starting a business in the E.U. versus the U.S. They described the shift that is happening in their home country and region with mentalities, cultures and traditions that are so different and shared thoughts on how to best navigate and take advantage of the shift. Miliute is a member of the Parliament of Lithuania and was the country’s youngest ever Member of Parliament; Alekniene is managing director of Inova Experts and co-founder and managing director of the International Business Women Network; and Zumiene is co-owner and CEO of Z.I.M. Way, a trading company that specializes in manufacturing and exporting quality linen textile specialties. The luncheon was organized by the Center for Global Management and supported by the Women’s Business Connection, Entrepreneur Association and European Business Association.

x
Learn more...
Tuesday, September 10, 2019, UCLA Anderson

Celebrating the Mid-Autumn Festival at UCLA Anderson

On September 10, 2019, to help the UCLA Anderson community better understand traditions of classmates, students from full-time MBA Class of 2021 joined with their sections to celebrate Mid-Autumn Festival, one of the most important events on the Lunar Calendar that represents the reunion of families. First-year students from each section, with the guidance from members of Anderson Eats and the Greater China Business Association (GCBA), served as volunteer organizers, using introductory videos and Q&As to educate classmates about the origin of the festival as well as associated folk legends and traditions. More than 200 students also sampled mooncakes, the signature pastry typically filled with sweet-bean or lotus-seed paste, synonymous with Mid-Autumn Festival as they enjoyed learning more about the traditional festival. With the feel of a family gathering, which is the essence of the festival the event generated tremendous interest and excitement. It created an interactive opportunity for new first-year students to forge closer bonds with each other while increasing awareness of the cultural diversity of the UCLA Anderson community. This inaugural edition of the event was organized by the GCBA and Anderson Eats, and supported by the Office of Equity, Diversity and Inclusion, Center for Global Management, and MBA Student Affairs.

x
Learn more...
Tuesday, September 3, 2019, London, UK

Students Enjoy Lunch with CGM Founding Board Member, Toby Raymond (’86) While on Exchange at London Business School

During the summer, around 50 FEMBA and EMBA students participated in one-week exchanges at eight partner schools around the world. During two alternative one-week block sessions in August and September, nine students (5 FEMBA and 4 EMBA) studied at London Business School. They took courses such as private equity and venture capital, strategies for growth, brand management, strategic innovation, and energy: markets, models and strategies. On Tuesday, September 3, Nathan Kwok, Abhinav Pande and Vikram Saurabh from the EMBA Class of 2020 together with Ria Malhan and Michael Nam from the FEMBA Class of 2020 had an opportunity to enjoy lunch at the Landmark Hotel in Marylebone with CGM founding board member, Toby Raymond (’86), managing director of Access Equity Management Ltd. Raymond relocated to London in 1992 to work as a market maker in financial derivatives products, where he established futures arbitrage and proprietary trading programs for an international trading firm. Raymond began advising on alternative asset investments in 1997 and established Access Equity Management Limited in 2000. The luncheon at London’s iconic Landmark Hotel provided a wonderful opportunity for our exceptional students to hear firsthand about European business and markets from a distinguished and accomplished global leader as well as understand more about Brexit and the future facing London. They were also joined by London-based Matthew Daines, UCLA’s executive director of development for Europe.

x
Learn more...
Sunday, September 1 – Sunday, September 8, 2019

28 students visit Peru for the CGM’s global immersion course, “From Emerging Market to One of the World’s Fastest Growing Economies: Transformation of the Peruvian Economy and Business Opportunities,” led by Sebastian Edwards, Henry Ford II Chair in International Management

In September during summer break, 28 students from UCLA Anderson’s full-time and fully employed MBA programs visited Lima and Cusco for the in-country week of the CGM’s global immersion course, “From Emerging Market to One of the World’s Fastest Growing Economies: Transformation of the Peruvian Economy and Business Opportunities,” led by distinguished professor and Latin American expert Sebastian Edwards, Henry Ford II Chair in International Management. This was the fourth global immersion course to visit Peru and the second to be led by Edwards.

During the course, students learned the way in which economic policy in Peru – one of the most successful countries in Latin America in the last decade – affects business opportunities. An important feature of the course was that it put Peru’s case in context with that of the rest of the Latin American nations (with special mention to Argentina, Brazil, Mexico, Chile and Venezuela). The course also analyzed the way in which politics affects both economics and policy. Before the in-country week, on-campus class sessions addressed some of the most important economic, business, social and political aspects of the country, cultural issues as well as social and business challenges. During the week in Peru, students heard from prominent business leaders, academics, politicians and senior policy makers, as well as successful entrepreneurs. A number of Davos-style conversations and moderated conversations helped illuminate Peru’s economics and business environments with a particular focus on sectors that are key to the Peruvian economy. Students also met with and had the opportunity to hear from successful UCLA Anderson alumni. They thoroughly enjoyed their time in-county, learned a great deal, were inspired, met good friends and enjoyed a truly immersive and memorable experience together. The week also concluded with a visit to the most familiar icon of Inca civilization - Machu Picchu.

On the first day in Lima, the inaugural speakers provided terrific context and foundation. At the Central Bank, students heard from Renzo Rossini, general manager who provided an excellent overview of Peru’s fundamentals and economic outlook, including vis-à-vis Latin America. He addressed growth, inflation and the reduction of poverty since 2002 and explained that after hyperinflation in the late 1980s and early 1990s, monetary policy was reformed and inflation decreased dramatically. Cesar Martin Menaranda, head of the investor services division at Proversion, discussed promoting private investments in public infrastructure through private-public partnerships (PPP). Proversion is a public executing agency, attached to the Ministry of Economy and Finance, that promotes the incorporation of private investment in public services and public infrastructure works. He talked about the various projects that the organization is involved with, ranging from sanitation to energy and mines and from education to tourism and culture. Students also heard from Antonio Menchelli, CEO of Urbanova Inmobilaria, the real estate arm of the Peruvian conglomerate, Breca. The company has been a major player in the development of Lima and firmly believes in sustainability.

During the week, students learned about the main sectors of importance to the Peruvian economy. The mining sector is, and has always been the key to the country’s economy. Peru has 13% of the world's copper reserves, 4% of its gold, 22% of its silver, 7.6% of zinc, 9% of lead and 6% of tin reserves, according to the most recent data of the Peru's Ministry of Energy and Mines. Students heard from Raul Benavides, vice president of Buenaventura, a Peruvian precious metals company engaged in the mining and exploration of gold, silver and other metals and the first mining company in Latin American to be listed in New York. Benavides described how mining is evolving from an industry that was very aggressive to the environment to one that is regulated with better parameters. He explained how companies such as Buenaventura are dealing with social and political challenges that did not exist when his father established company. After mining, the fishery sector is the most important sector in Peru. Students visited the TASA fishing plant. TASA is a leading Peruvian company in the fishing sector and the first producer and exporter of fishmeal and fish oil in the world. The company has contributed to reducing poverty, increasing GDP, creating full employment and foreign exchange. At TASA, Cayetana Aljovin, chairwoman at Sociedad Nacional de Pesqueria spoke about anchovy fishing in Peru. Anchovy fishing is the dominant catch in the country and has been recognized worldwide as an industry that respects the environment and works for the sustainability of the resources. Students had the opportunity to tour the plant and learn about the process of fish meal and fish oil. They also visited the control room to understand how NIR analysis provides rapid analysis data for better decision making in food and agri-production processes.

Peru's climate and different geographical zones also make it an important agricultural nation. Diego Acosta, category manager at Agricola Cerro Prieto (ACP) addressed agribusiness in Peru. ACP is engaged in the production, packaging, and marketing of high quality agricultural products, including avocados, table grapes, green asparagus and organic blueberries, four crops that allow for continuous cash flow throughout the year. Peru is a major supplier of crops such as asparagus because of its unique climate. Initially, many were of the opinion that blueberries could not grow and thrive in Peru as a fruit, but now Peru is one of the world’s biggest producers and exporters in the world. Since Peru enjoys the ability to ship its fruit by sea, producers have also been able to gain a substantial margin on sales. The Peruvian textile history began five thousand years ago when weavers from pre-Inca and Inca cultures mastered the natural fibers of cotton and alpaca. Today, Peru's textile industry employs approximately 250,000 people, and textiles and garment manufacturers account for more than 30 percent of the non-traditional exports in Peru. Peru produces some of the best cotton in the world and is renowned for its superior fiber length, strength, and consistency. The country also provides 80% of the world's supply of alpaca wool. Students learned more about the sector from Eduardo Elias, president of Textile Sourcing Company (TSC), a Peruvian integrated company founded in 2012 from former Textil San Cristobal S.A., as part of the biggest textile group in Perú. TSC is a full vertical operation from spinning to knitting, dyeing, cutting, sewing, packing, shipping and delivery which allows the company to have the shortest supply model in the region. He described the three drivers of value: quality, design and brand and talked about pricing and manpower management and the impact of exchange rate fluctuations. He also described how China and e-commerce are hurting the Peruvian textile industry and the impact of automation and AI.

Peru produces 30,000 tonnes of solid waste per day – 50% organic, 25% recyclables (not organic) and 25% non-recyclables. However, only around 3% of the recyclables is recovered today in Peru. Pipo Reiser, co-founder of Sinba, a social enterprise working with the Peruvian culinary sector explained how one restaurant generates the equivalent waste of 100 households and shared with students how Sinba creates solutions to help improve waste management and formalize waste collections. Students later had the opportunity to learn about financial inclusion from Adriana Chavez, CFO at MiBanco. The company was founded in 1998 as the first Peruvian bank to specialize in micro-finance. MiBanco offers products and services oriented to the micro and small enterprises, such as working capital, fixed assets, scope and commercial store building credits, fixed term savings, money exchange and money transfer to other countries. Students learned how MiBanco uses behavioural finance and is in the evolution of its business model, using technology for greater efficiency.

Students visited UTEC Ventures. Founded in 2014, UTEC Ventures is the edtech startup accelerator of the University of Engineering and Technology and is seen as one of the main contributors to the Peruvian startup ecosystem. Professor Edwards moderated a conversation on innovation initiatives in Peru and the entrepreneurial ecosystem with three entrepreneurial-minded panelists. Jose Deustua, managing director at UTEC Ventures was joined by Daniella Raffo, managing director at Aporta, the social innovation laboratory of the Breca group that works with the Group’s business units to maximize their social and environmental impact on stakeholders and uses the power of business for a force for good; and UCLA Anderson alumna Yvonne Quiñones (’15), co-founder and CEO at Urbaner, a platform that redefines logistics and gives companies access deliveries on demand. Students heard how much harder it is for companies to get funding in Peru versus the U.S. and how in general, women entrepreneurs seem to perform better. Students really appreciated hearing inspiring stories of entrepreneurs and especially two successful female entrepreneurs. Students also had the opportunity to hear from another successful UCLA Anderson alumnus Marco Moreno (‘01), managing partner at Creuza Advisors who hosted the group at his office. Moreno talked about the country’s transformation. He described Peru from 1985-1990 and then from 1990-2018 under Alberto Fujimori and the five administrations post Fujimori and explained that while they had different ideologies, the economic model remained the same. He touched on Peru’s investment landscape and explained that the VC ecosystem is in its early stages and that private equity has a limited track record. He also discussed the contagion effect in Latin America. Hugo Santa Maria, chief economist and managing partner for economic studies at Apoyo Consulting also provided a terrific overview on the Peruvian economy. He discussed specifically the “crises” years (1980’s and early 1990’s); the deployment of a new economic model which was “market oriented” (the 1990’s); then the “rock star” years (2003-2013); resiliency under adversity (2013-2016); then the “what on earth is going on” years (2016-2020); and the obstacles that the country has to overcome, such as a dysfunctional political system, constant turnover of key government authorities, a lack of continuity in public policies, procrastination in decision making in the public administration that require “political capital,” and since public opinion is key, the risk of “microeconomic populism.”

A visit to Lima would not be complete without a visit to LUM, The Place of Memory, Tolerance and Social Inclusion that explores the 1980–2000 conflict between terrorist groups and Peru's government. LUM contains pivotal moments to understand the events between 1980 and 2000 and presents information on Shining Path (SL) and the Tupac Amaru Revolutionary Movement (MRTA), as the ones that sparked the violence, as well as showing the profound inequalities and the absence of the State that caused it to spread. Professor Edwards likes to incorporate an art/cultural session into the week which adds another dimension to the experience. At the LUM, students heard from Miguel Cruchaga, a Peruvian architect, intellectual and politician who talked about the country’s architectural history and explained the different styles in Lima throughout the years. He discussed the Huacas, incorporation of neo classical landmarks as in Europe and later the adoption of the international architectural style post 1940.

Peru is known for its gastronomy and is home to some of the best restaurants in the world. Peru has 28 of the 34 climates and 84 of the 114 microclimates of the world, influenced by factors such as the Andes and the ocean currents. In Lima, students visited the San Isidro market and were given a tour of the market by Ignacio Barrios, founder and owner of Urban Kitchen who explained the origins of Peruvian food and the importance of ingredients in modern Peruvian gastronomy. Following the tour, students visited Urban Kitchen for an evening culinary experience where they also learned the importance of history of Peruvian food and how it became one of the most important in the world. They divided into four groups to learn how to cook traditional Peruvian cebiche and lomo saltado, as well as causa with prawns and huancaina sauce and octopus and black olive sauce. Students also learned how to make the transitional Peruvian picso. UCLA Anderson alumni also joined the evening together with a student from the entering MSBA Class of 2020 who lives in Lima.

In Cusco, Carlos Milla, president at CARTUC, the regional Chamber of Tourism provided an overview of the tourism sector in Cusco and its impact on the local economy and discussed the sustainability of the current growth in the number of tourists visiting the Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu. Peru is highly dependent on Machu Picchu with 85% of inbound tourists visiting the site. He explained that the region experienced huge growth between 2008 and 2013. The growth of the middle class has also been remarkable however there is an important part of the population that is still vulnerable. Looking to the future, he sees huge potential in certain areas, including mining of lithium, hydro-energy, water basin management and tourism. He also sees poverty declining and more people being integrated into modern society. However, there are also some challenges, including corruption and the informal economy, among others. Cusco has also become an attractive market for retail investment due to its high rate of foreign tourists and development of modern spaces dedicated to transforming the quality of life of thousands of Cusqueñian families. Students heard from Patricia Guzman, sales and marketing coordinator at Real Plaza, the largest developer and operator of shopping centers in Peru about how the company has been a pioneer in bringing modernity and investment projects to provinces, transforming the quality of life of thousands of Peruvians and generating employment opportunities. The final speaker of the week was Heidy Aspilcueta, director of operations at Medlife, an NGO that partners with low-income communities in Latin America to improve their access to medicine, education, and community development initiatives. Cusco is surrounded by an indigenous population that continues to live in extreme poverty. Aspilcueta explained how Medlife partners with the local communities to improve access in these areas and help integrate the communities into the modern economy.

During their time in Lima and Cusco, students also enjoyed tours of each city. In Lima, students visited the historical colonial district and enjoyed a walking tour from Plaza Mayor, the birthplace of Lima which is surrounded by the Government Palace, Cathedral of Lima, Archbishop's Palace of Lima, the Municipal Palace, and the Palace of the Union. They toured Basílica y Convento de San Francisco which aside from a church and monastery, also contains a library and catacombs. They also visited the Adobe Pyramid Huaca Huallamarca, an archaeological site in Peru, located in the San Isidro district. In Cusco, students walked to Korikancha / Church and Convent of Santo Domingo. Possibly the most sacred and important building in the entire Inca Empire, Korikancha was the name given to the Inca Temple of the Sun. They toured the famous San Pedro local market and drove to Sacsayhuaman, a citadel on the northern outskirts of Cusco where they walked around the site and the best-known zone of Sacsayhuamán which includes its great plaza and its adjacent three massive terrace walls before embarking on a short walk to Cristo Blanco. The group ended the week with a visit to the most familiar icon of Inca civilization - Machu Picchu. Some students hiked up to Intipunku (Sun Gate), one of the most important archeological constructions around the Machu Picchu and others walked to the Inca Bridge. Everyone walked around the inside of the citadel and learned more detail around the history of Machu Picchu. Declared a Peruvian Historic Sanctuary in 1981 and a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1983, Machu Picchu was voted one of the New Seven Wonders of the World in a 2009 worldwide Internet poll. At the conclusion of the week, some students stayed a few extra days to hike in the mountains, others headed to various parts of Latin America while a number of students headed home with fond memories, new friends, alpaca gifts and a greater understanding and appreciation of Peru.

x
Learn more...
Sunday, September 1 – Saturday, September 7, 2019

40 students visit Helsinki, Finland and Stockholm, Sweden for the CGM’s Global Immersion course “Entrepreneurship and Corporate Renewal in Scandinavia,” led by George Abe, lecturer in entrepreneurship

In September during the same time period, 40 current students from UCLA Anderson’s full-time, fully employed and executive MBA programs also visited Finland and Sweden for the in-country week of another CGM global immersion course “Entrepreneurship and Corporate Renewal in Scandinavia.” Led by George Abe, lecturer in entrepreneurship, this was the second global immersion course to visit the Nordic countries. The course focused on government policy, particularly support for entrepreneurship, in sustaining the standard of living in Nordic countries by focusing on the economies of Finland and Sweden. The course also addressed the renewal, or not, of large private companies.

During the week, students heard from and engaged with many successful entrepreneurs and business leaders as well as visited many start-up and well-known companies. The week started in Helsinki. The inaugural presentation and discussion was with executives from Nordic Investment Bank, headquartered in the city, who provided an overview of the Finnish banking system and investments in entrepreneurship. NIB’s mission is to finance projects that improve the productivity and benefit the environment of the Nordic and Baltic countries. Its main lending areas include energy and water, infrastructure, industries and services and SMEs. This provided a great foundation and context for the presentations and visits that followed. Students visited Maria 01, located in an old hospital campus that was converted into a community campus and startup ecosystem. Founded in 2016 as a startup campus hub in Finland, Maria 01 is run as a nonprofit with a vision to provide everything a startup needs to build their company in one place. The idea is to help the Finnish tech ecosystem grow at scale and mature faster. Maria 01 is a selective tech incubator that hosts over 100 startups. It also is a VC hub hosting ten early-stage VCs active in Finland. A few accelerators also are tenants. Following a history and overview of Maria 01 delivered by the company’s COO, Atte Penttinen, students had the opportunity to hear from two successful Finnish entrepreneurs. Sampsa Siitonen, CEO of Witrafi, a company that focuses on parking technology, discussed how the company is changing the way we park to make car parking a positive experience and a sustainable activity. Rudi Skogman, CEO of Blok Enterprises, one of the fastest growing startups in Finland and the fastest growing real estate agency in the country, addressed the company's web-based platform which provides an online portal for the buying and selling of houses and renders traditional realtors redundant. In September 2017, Blok was chosen by Wired UK as one of "Europe's Hottest 100 Startups." The company is also part of the Finnish government’s flagship initiative, the KIRA-digi program, which supports new innovations and businesses in the real estate and construction sectors. Students also heard from Gabriele Aimone, CEO of Helsinki Games Factory, now the leading Finnish gamedev hub that provides services to the industry at large and office premises for 25 in-house game studios.

In Helsinki, students were hosted by UCLA Anderson’s GAP partner, Business Finland. As of January 1, 2018 Finpro – the Finnish trade promotion organization – and Tekes – the Finnish Funding Agency for Innovation – united as Business Finland. Business Finland is the most important public funding agency for research funding in Finland, and is directed by the Finnish Ministry of Employment and the Economy. Its mission is to catalyze new growth and create opportunities for the country through innovation and international expansion. The group also visited Aalto Start-up Center, a successful and fast developing business accelerator operating within Aalto University. To attract innovative growth companies, the center provides a platform for start-ups to accelerate their growth through combining all the forces that support entrepreneurship in the Helsinki metropolitan area. It offers modern workspace facilities, a wide range of development services and business advice, as well as an extensive network of experts. Following a brief introduction by Hakan Mitts, a senior lecturer with Aalto Ventures Program, the group was joined by three start-up companies who each gave a short 5-minute pitch to the students on their ideas, products and companies and presented their biggest challenge. The students then broke out into four groups for 20-minute roundtable discussions for some brainstorming with the start-ups. The final visit in Helsinki was to MaaS (Mobility as a Service) Global where Krista Huhtala-Jenks, its head of ecosystem and sustainability described how the company aims to bring all consumers means of travel to one easy place by giving them more options for transit through a single gateway. MaaS Global is behind the all-in-one mobility app, Whim which offers a subscription service for public transportation, ridesharing, bike rentals, scooter rentals, taxis or car rentals. The app basically optimizes the best mode for every journey and gives its users all city transport services in one step, letting them journey where and when they want with public transport, taxis, bikes, cars, and other options, all under a single subscription. Students also visited Nokia’s headquarters in Espoo and learned about innovation and intrapreneurship at Nokia.

Mid-week, the students transferred to Stockholm. The inaugural speaker was Christopher Kandimaa, former head of equity finance for Dankse Bank who spoke about “the Swedish model” and discussed the Swedish financial system, the Riksbanken and its role in fiscal and monetary policy. He also touched on Sweden’s macro economy, shadow banking, labor markets and how the tax system is structured, particularly as it affects entrepreneurs. This provided great context for the presentations and visits to some of the country’s best known and successful companies that followed. At King/Candycrush, Daniel Svärd, vice president and head of studio for the Candy Crush Saga and Charley Tesch, global communications manager provided an overview on King, its gaming success and the freemium model. King is an independent unit of Activision Blizzard Inc., which acquired the company in February 2016. It is a leading interactive entertainment company for the mobile world that gained fame after releasing the cross-platform title “Candy Crush Saga” in 2012, considered one of the most financially successful games utilizing the freemium model. At Spotify, Gustav Söderström, chief R&D officer talked about entrepreneurship in the music industry. Spotify transformed music listening forever when it launched in Sweden in 2008. Today, Spotify is the world’s most popular music streaming service and the largest driver of revenue to the music business. Students learned about the company's primary business, its audio streaming platform that provides digital rights management-protected music and podcasts from record labels and media companies. As a freemium service, basic features are free with advertisements or automatic music videos, while additional features, such as improved streaming quality, are offered via paid subscriptions. As of July 2019, Spotify had 232 million monthly active users, including 108 million paying subscribers. At Purple+/Telia, students learned about the country’s innovation in telecommunication services. They visited Telia Company, a dominant telecom and mobile network operator in Sweden and Finland and heard how Purple+, Telia’s digital innovation hub, addresses the challenges to protect Telia’s core business and unleash new growth opportunities and how it establishes dedicated business units to help these innovations grow.

During a fireside chat with Professor Abe, John Elvesjö, founder and former co-CEO of Tobii, a Swedish high-technology company talked about how Tobii develops and sells products for eye control and eye tracking. He spoke about how he raised initial funding for the company and the journey of Tobii going public and discussed Brightly Ventures, his new VC and PE firm that specializes in technology companies in the Nordic countries. Later in the week at WeWork’s new facilities in Stockholm, Kjell Håkan Närfelt, chief strategy officer of Sweden’s government innovation agency Vinnova addressed the group. By improving the conditions for innovation, as well as funding needs- driven research, he shared Vinnova’s vision for Sweden. Its vision is to become a world-leading country in research and innovation and an attractive place in which to invest and conduct business through the promotion of collaborations between companies, universities, research institutes and the public sector. Närfelt, who has been working with technology driven business development and R&D for more than 20 years also explained the funding process. Every year Vinnova invests about SEK 2 billion in various initiatives, including technology startup companies. At the end of the week, through a visit to Sana Labs students were fascinated and intrigued to learn how technology and artificial intelligence are disrupting the education sector. Founded in Stockholm in 2016, Sana Labs is an artificial intelligence company that applies recent breakthroughs in machine learning to personalize educational content to each student. In its full- stack machine learning platform, Sana Labs handles millions of content recommendations for education companies around the world.

During the week, students also met and networked with a number of entrepreneurs in more informal and interactive sessions. They enjoyed a Q&A session with three local resident entrepreneurs at SUP46 (SUP stands for Startup People of Sweden and 46 is the area code for Sweden). Founded in 2013, SUP46 is a co-working space and international hub for early-stage technology companies. After brief introductions of their companies, through interactive conversations with students, the entrepreneurs explained why they chose SUP46, elaborated on their business models and pricing structures and addressed the hurdles that they have faced. They also described the entrepreneurial environment and ecosystem in Sweden and why they believe Sweden has so many people who are keen to pursue entrepreneurial endeavors. UCLA Anderson alumnus Tobias Hummel (’06) also facilitated a panel of successful Swedish entrepreneurs who joined Professor Abe at Helio Kista for a fireside chat and who shared their own personal journey, success stories and the challenges they faced on the entrepreneurial path. This was followed by a networking reception for the students, entrepreneurs and alumni.

During their time, students also got to experience some of the culture and sights of Helsinki and Stockholm with two organized city tours. In Stockholm, they visited and wandered through Gamla Stan, one of the largest and best preserved medieval city centers in Europe, and one of the foremost attractions in Stockholm with its cobblestone streets and brightly painted buildings. Students enjoyed many famous landmarks including Riksdagshuset, the Swedish Parliament building; the Royal Palace on the waterfront; and the Storkyrkan, Stockholm’s Cathedral. Other highlights included the Vasa Swedish warship and the Nobel Prize Museum. In Helsinki, students visited landmarks such as Temppeliaukio Church, a Lutheran church in the Töölö neighborhood of Helsinki that is built directly into solid rock. They also visited Senate Square and learned about the beautiful buildings and neoclassical architecture and its surroundings which make up the oldest part of central Helsinki. The week concluded with a farewell dinner back in Gamla Stan. Some students extended their stay in Europe while others returned back to the United States with a greater understanding and appreciation of entrepreneurship and corporate renewal in the Nordic countries!

x
Learn more...
Tuesday, August 20, 2019

The CGM Hosts an Evening of Networking with Students from ESSEC Business School’s EMBA and Digital Leadership Programs and UCLA Anderson’s FTMBA, FEMBA and UCLA-NUS EMBA Programs

The Center for Global Management welcomed around 50 students and faculty from the EMBA and Advanced Certificate in Digital Leadership programs at ESSEC Business School, France to UCLA Anderson from August 19-23, 2019 for a one-week global management seminar focused on “The Business of California.” The week provided participants with an opportunity to complete part of their studies at UCLA and gain valuable global experience and insights. The week focused on the innovation and creativity that are such an integral part of the business community in Los Angeles and California, including current academic research and business application around topics such entrepreneurship and idea generation, big data, technology and business model driven innovation, the regulatory landscape in the U.S., as well as designing and implementing a platform strategy. During the week, students visited the Walt Disney Studios, Disney Accelerator, Boston Scientific and the Getty Museum. On Tuesday, August 20, the students enjoyed a networking reception on the North Terrace, organized by the CGM where they had an opportunity to interact with faculty teaching during the week as well as meet and connect with students from UCLA Anderson’s FTMBA and FEMBA programs as well as the UCLA-NUS EMBA program who were on campus for the second week of their UCLA residencies.

x
Learn more...
Monday, August 19, 2019

Discussion over Dinner on "Technology-Based Transformation of Shenzhen and Hong Kong – Implications Regionally and Globally,” UCLA Anderson School of Management

A notable transformation is occurring in Shenzhen and Hong Kong. This technology driven transformation has been enabled by Government policy, changes in consumer preferences and enterprise driven innovation. The Center for Global Management’s recent technology-focused global immersion course, led by Terry Kramer, adjunct professor and faculty director for the Easton Technology Management Center helped students to understand the dynamic growth of Shenzhen juxtaposed against the historic prosperity of Hong Kong. And in the process of understanding these two fascinating success stories, the course uncovered the "cause-and-effect" relationship of government policy and the changes in consumer preferences and technology in driving unique outcomes. Visits such as those with Tencent/WeChat, Foxconn, DJI, Mindray and Royole as well as other emerging artificial intelligence and fintech companies were important in telling the story and helped illuminate the region’s political, economic, and innovation-oriented environment, and the significant changes that have occurred over the last several decades.

On Monday, August 19, following a networking reception in the Marion Anderson Courtyard, Professor Kramer moderated a conversation with technology-oriented students/alumni from the Class of 2019 who participated in the course. Morgan Greenwald, partner marketing manager at Microsoft in Bellevue, joined via Zoom web conference and together with Ryan Tan, vice president of M&A and corporate planning at StarHub Ltd. in Singapore and Richard Tran, consulting services consultant at Neustar, Inc. shared insights and lessons learned from visits to these leading technology companies which demonstrated the notable transformation in the region and for China more broadly in areas such fintech, high-tech smart manufacturing, social media and internet services. Panelists examined the possible wider implications regionally and globally as well as key lessons learned drawing upon contextual leadership—identifying the “cause and effect” of the successes in the region and the likely future outcomes and areas of innovation. Panelists also shared their views on the impact of technology and unique context of Shenzhen and Hong Kong, views about their own countries in relation to this transformation and the opportunities and challenges presented as well as their own leadership learnings.

Professor Kramer also shared his own observations with the packed executive dining room full of engaged and interested current students, alumni, faculty and special guests who were also able to engage in the conversation through the Slido audience interaction tool. His observations that arose from the course included the notable case of rising outcomes/reduction of poverty; leapfrog innovation that was evident everywhere (e.g. mobile payments); Chinese companies are expanding product/service offerings domestically (often greater than international expansion); the notable role of government in driving adoption (e.g. 5G) and winners/losers. The role of data is massive and it was clear that Chinese consumers are very willing to share data and try new services and “China is advancing faster in the data driven world, then the U.S., then India, and then Europe.” Kramer also shared interesting observations from the team projects that the students completed during the course. Student team project innovations almost exclusively focused on large company innovations (e.g. Tencent) and these innovations focused almost exclusively on the Chinese market. There were requirements for scale and lesser focus on international opportunities in the near team. The role of government was also key and there are clearly advanced forms of technology (e.g. virtual assistants utilizing AI) being developed. Students identified less concern on required quantity and availability of data and there will be future of work considerations for China (as well as U.S.) too. It was interesting that Hong Kong was neither identified as a location for development of innovation nor as a target market.

Given the overwhelming demand for the course and interest in the topic, the Center for Global Management will be running a similar course with Professor Kramer in winter/spring 2020. The discussion was a collaboration between the Center for Global Management and Easton Technology Management Center and the UCLA-NUS Executive MBA program.

x
Learn more...
Sunday, August 11, 2019, UCLA Anderson

The CGM Welcomes International Exchange Students from 8 Partner Universities and Hosts an Evening of Networking with UCLA Anderson’s EMBA, FEMBA and UCLA-NUS MBA Students

 

Managed through the Center for Global Management, one-week exchanges conducive to working students’ schedules are offered over the summer with international partner universities. In 2019, over 50 FEMBA and EMBA students are scheduled to participate in one-week exchanges at nine partner schools during the summer and in December. On Sunday, August 11, the CGM welcomed around 40 students from these same partner schools who joined classes with UCLA Anderson’s EMBA, FEMBA and UCLA-NUS EMBA students during a one-week block of elective courses. The CGM hosted an orientation for the students to learn more about Los Angeles, UCLA and UCLA Anderson, and partnered with the UCLA-NUS EMBA program in hosting a networking reception on UCLA Anderson’s North Terrace for students to network with peers from other top international business and management schools. A tour of the beautiful UCLA campus was also provided. Students from UCLA Anderson’s EMBA and FEMBA programs participating on exchange over the summer joined the networking reception. Some reconnected with students they had met earlier in the summer at their host institutions and also were introduced to new friends from schools they will soon be visiting on exchange. The one-week exchange block at UCLA Anderson coincided with the two-week UCLA residency for the UCLA-NUS EMBA program so there were tremendous opportunities for all students at UCLA Anderson to interact and network with peers from around the world during the week.

x
Learn more...
Saturday, July 13, 2019 Dickson Plaza, UCLA

The CGM Engages with FEMBA and EMBA Admits at ‘Palooza 8

On Saturday, July 13, 2019, UCLA Anderson celebrated a tremendously successful ‘Palooza 8 which attracted around 1,500 people. The eighth annual fun-filled family event, formerly known as FEMBApalooza, was hosted by the FEMBA and EMBA programs. It was held on UCLA’s Dickson Plaza and served as the official welcome event of the entering FEMBA Class of 2022 and EMBA Class of 2021, and showcased the people, programs and available resources of UCLA Anderson.

In the spirit of One Anderson, the event brought together students and alumni from many of UCLA Anderson’s programs — full-time MBA, FEMBA, EMBA, UCLA-NUS EMBA, Ph.D. and MFE - and included members of the Classes of 1961, 1980 and 1982 and some 202 incoming FEMBA, EMBA and full-time MBA students from the recently admitted Classes of 2021 and 2020. Faculty, family and friends joined. Together with faculty from UCLA Anderson’s Behavioral Decision Making area who conducted Learning on the Lawn TEDx-type sessions, CGM executive director Lucy Allard Nelson (’06) highlighted he global courses and programming available to students both on campus and abroad, such as the global immersion and international exchange courses. The CGM also managed a ’Palooza 8 booth and the grand prize of the afternoon was a ’Palooza global immersion fellowship, which covers the program fee for the in-country component of a global immersion course. It was won by Naomi Chi from the FEMBA Class of 2021. Over the years, through the global immersion and international exchange courses as well as through GAP and SMR field studies, FEMBA and EMBA students have traveled to more than 45 countries.

x
Learn more...
Thursday, May 16, 2019 5.00-8.00 p.m., North Terrace

2019 International Food Festival – Celebrating and Valuing Diversity while Taking Taste Buds on a World Tour!

On May 16, 2019, students from the International Business Association (IBA) organized UCLA Anderson’s largest food festival - International Food Festival 2019 (IFF-2019). This annual tradition, supported by the Center for Global Management, Office of Diversity, MBA Student Affairs and ASA showcases, celebrates and embraces the international culture and diversity of UCLA Anderson through a universal form of expression — food. The event was held on North Terrace in place of Anderson Afternoons and the beautiful ambience was spiced up as UCLA Anderson students from different countries gathered together to experience different cultures through cuisines from all over the world. Adding to the ambience were decorations, bright lights and miniature international mini flags. Stalls decorated with regional handiwork only added to the elegance of the event.

The celebration was attended by more than 280 students from across UCLA Anderson’s various degree programs, faculty and staff as well as friends and family. The event featured 12 different cuisines from India, China, Thailand, Israel, Korea, Vietnam, Indonesia, Japan, Europe, Cuba, Argentina and a fusion of Central Asia. Host students, representing different student clubs at UCLA Anderson from around the world, sourced authentic food from some of the best restaurants across Los Angeles. Some student hosts also dressed up in their country’s and/or region’s traditional attire and spent time conversing with attendees to explain the details of the food served such as special occasion when it is consumed and cooking ingredients and methods. While a collection of international beverages to pair with the food was provided by the AndersonEats and Southeast Asia Business Association, desserts from the European Business Association made the atmosphere a bit sweeter. Cultural diversity was also on display through international music and student hosts sharing facts and customs about their own countries.

The Critics’ Choice Award for the best tables was judged on the basis of providing the best cultural experience. The decision was a difficult one to make. The two winners selected by judges from the full-time MBA office, included the South Asian Business Association’s paneer and chicken tikka and the Greater China Business Association’s cold noodles. Further, the two People’s Choice awards for best hospitality and cuisine was awarded to the Jewish Business Students Association’s burekas and rugelach and the Korean Business Student Association’s fried chicken and spicy rice cake.

IBA is grateful to the Center for Global Management, the Office of Diversity, ASA and MA Student Affairs for supporting the event and ensuring that UCLA Anderson remains an open and inclusive environment that embraces, celebrates and values diversity. In addition to the IBA, participating student clubs included: South Asian Business Association, Japan America Business Association, Greater China Business Association, Korean Business Student Association, European Business Association, Southeast Asia Business Association, Jewish Business Student Association, Asian Management Business Association, Anderson Eats, Net Impact and AnderTech.

x
Learn more...
Thursday, May 16, 2019 4:00-5:30pm, Bunche Hall, UCLA

“Patent Litigation Considerations for Chinese Companies” with Lisa Zang, Associate, Wilson Sonsini Goodrich & Rosati, P.C.

While in recent years, Chinese companies have enjoyed immense success in the technology arena, there has been an uptick in U.S. patent litigations against Chinese companies. Given the amount of business that Chinese companies conduct in the U.S., the likelihood of collecting a significant U.S. judgment (or settlement payment) has also increased. In light of these developments, it is important for Chinese companies to take measures to reduce their exposure to U.S. patent lawsuits and the associated burdens of litigation. This includes reviewing business practices to avoid inadvertently infringing U.S. patents. In addition, Chinese companies can apply a discovery strategy early in litigation that limits discovery to only U.S.-based activities. In so doing, companies can set the stage for early motions for summary judgment to foreclose the recovery of damages for foreign sales. On Thursday, May 16, Lisa Zang, an associate in Wilson Sonsini Goodrich & Rosati's Los Angeles office addressed an audience of UCLA students and faculty to discuss these as well as other considerations that affect Chinese companies. Following her presentation, Yunxiang Yan, director of the UCLA Center for Chinese Studies and Professor of Anthropology moderated a conversation around the topic and key issues. Zhang’s practice focuses on intellectual property litigation. She has handled all phases of patent litigation and represented clients in the biotech, communications, electronics, mobile, pharmaceutical, security, and software industries in patent infringement and trade secret matters. The event was organized by the UCLA Center for Chinese Studies and co-sponsored by the Center for Global Management.

x
Learn more...
Wednesday, May 15, 2019, 11:30 AM - 12:30 PM, Dean’s Conference Room

Lunch Series with CGM Advisory Board Member Brent Nelson Smith (’86), Co-Founder and Managing Partner, LevelOne Capital Limited; Former Global Group Head of Corporate & Investment Banking DBS Bank Ltd. On “Global Investment Banking and Entrepreneurship.”

On Wednesday, May 15, 2019, the Center for Global Management hosted a luncheon with advisory board member and UCLA Anderson alumnus, Brent Smith (’86). A senior international manager, financial services executive, private investor and strategic advisor, Smith has over thirty years of experience across Asia, the U.S. and Australia and now regularly commutes between the U.S. and Southeast Asia. Since 2008, he has served as co-founder and managing partner of LevelOne Capital Ltd., a pan-Asian investment and advisory firm where he has specialized in startup and mezzanine opportunities in emerging markets with a focus on southeast Asia, particularly Vietnam and Singapore. Smith formerly served as managing director and global group head of corporate and investment banking for DBS Bank, a Singaporean multinational bank and financial services company after spending almost 15 years with JPMorgan & Co., where he was a managing director in the investment banking and mergers and acquisitions groups, and completed assignments in New York, Melbourne, Sydney, Singapore and San Francisco. First, second and third year students from the full-time, fully employed and executive MBA programs, including past and present CGM mentees, members of the Investment Finance Association, Entrepreneur Association and Southeast Asian Business Association and students interested in global management gathered to hear his career trajectory since graduating from UCLA Anderson in 1986. The luncheon provided an opportunity for interested MBA students to meet Smith in an informal and interactive setting and hear his thoughts, insights and experiences as a global investment banker, investor, entrepreneur and strategic advisor. He discussed his career trajectory since graduating from UCLA Anderson as well and his experience living, working and doing business internationally, and the importance of global and diverse perspectives, cultural sensitivity and fluency and international experiences in today’s environment. He shared many personal stories and experiences with the students as well as lessons learned throughout his successful global career, providing valuable guidance to students and describing his transition from investment banker to CFO to venture capitalist to entrepreneur. Smith discussed the importance of peer to peer networking, being open to opportunities and opening yourself up to your network. He explained how past experiences and skills acquired in the early days of his career have helped him understand different industries in different countries as well as comprehend various management structures which have all been valuable both in his entrepreneurial ventures today as well as in his role as a board director. He also touched on the importance of looking, listening, learning and self analyzing. The lunch was supported by the Investment Finance Association, the Entrepreneur Association and Southeast Asian Business Association.

x
Learn more...
Thursday, May 9, 2019, 4:30 PM, Anderson Afternoon, North Terrace

Celebrating Israeli Independence Day at UCLA Anderson

The Jewish Business Student Association (JBSA), with support from the Center for Global Management and Anderson Student Council, organized an Israeli-themed Anderson Afternoon on Thursday, May 9 to celebrate Israel’s Independence Day. Independence Day commemorates the Israeli Declaration of Independence on May 14, 1948, making this year the 71st anniversary of the establishment of a Jewish state in the land of Israel. JBSA’s mission is to build and sustain a community that enhances the professional, social and educational experience of Jewish students at UCLA Anderson. Given the significant interest among UCLA Anderson students in learning more about Israel, as demonstrated by the participation in the annual Israel trek, the JBSA wanted to share more about Israel’s unique history and culture and make it accessible to the wider UCLA Anderson community. Students enjoyed Israeli food and music, while students who participated on the Israel trek shared their recent experiences in Israel with other students who were interested in learning more about the history of the country and the importance of Independence Day.

x
Learn more...
Friday, May 3, 2019 8:30AM – 4:30PM

The Future of the Automobile Conference: Driving Towards Tomorrow, Petersen Automotive Museum

Long a center of car culture, Los Angeles is emerging as the epicenter of new transportation development. The world is watching closely to see how we redesign our urban landscape around new electric, autonomous and ridesharing technologies. California will play a key role in creating the hardware and the software and establishing the regulatory framework that will underlie a dramatic shift in the transportation industry extending across America and around the world. On Friday, May 3, the Los Angeles World Affairs Council and Petersen Automotive Museum hosted the second Future of the Automobile Conference – Driving Towards Tomorrow at the Petersen Automotive Museum in west Los Angeles to explore the impact of evolving design, rideshare, and technology in the automotive industry with the most forward-thinking automotive leaders and designers who shared their visions of the future. The conference brought together leading voices from car manufacturers, technology companies and regulatory agencies for a day-long series of talks and panel discussions on one of the biggest technological, economic and social changes facing the U.S. and the world in the coming years and provided a glimpse into the future of our mobility and explored the brave new world of the personal transportation revolution that is set to transform every city in the world. As a member of the LAWAC, the Center for Global Management supported 14 students from the full-time, fully employed and executive MBA programs to attend the day-long conference which opened with a discussion around “Visions of Tomorrow.” In this inaugural session, respected thought leaders from the automotive and technology industries, academia, and public policy shared their perspectives on the myriad of challenges and opportunities for the future of the automobile. This was followed by a keynote address on “Designing the Future” with Klaus Bischoff, VW’s head of design who since 2007, has been responsible for global design for the Volkswagen brand. There were morning breakout sessions on topics such as self-driving cars and inter-vehicle communication, connectivity and security; the future of infrastructure and city planning; the future of ownership and ridesharing; and artificial intelligence and autonomy. The mid-day keynote was delivered by McKeel Hagerty, CEO of Hagerty around the topic of “Human driving in the autonomous future.” Hagerty’s knowledge and enthusiasm have given him a reputation as an authority within the automotive and automotive media worlds, representing the classic car community on numerous boards and advisory groups, Afternoon breakout sessions explored the powering of the future and modern advances in electric vehicles; human-computer interfaces, design, and the driving experience; the industry future and manufacturing transition; and rising China: Competition or cooperation in future automotive technology. The birth of the car was a product of innovation in a core set of advanced industrialized countries. More than a century later, a new revolution in automotive design is taking place against a setting of globalized industries and technologies. New market entrants, such as China, are seeking to be leaders in the new era of autonomous automobiles. This panel explored whether the question as to whether international competition will rule the day, or whether countries will learn to cooperate in the establishment of standards and the sharing of technologies?

x
Learn more...
Monday, April 29, 2019 5:00 PM – 6:30 PM, Executive Dining Room, UCLA Anderson

World Today Discussion Series “U.S.-China Conflict and the Case of Huawei: Business, Policy and Legal Issues and Implications”

Huawei is the world's No. 1 telecommunications equipment maker, despite being effectively shut out of the U.S. market. The company has spent decades building a strong presence in markets around the world and last year, overtook Apple as the second biggest supplier of smartphones. The detention in Canada of Huawei’s CFO for extradition to the U.S. caused major concerns in international business, particularly among companies and executives in the telecoms and technology sectors. Huawei's rise as a global tech company is under threat as an increasing number of governments express concern that its technology could provide a back-door for the Chinese authorities. The assault on Huawei's business reflects the increasingly bitter rivalry between Beijing and Washington over who will control the technologies of the future. There is particular concern about the security of 5G because it will be used to carry vast amounts of data, connecting robots, autonomous vehicles and other sensitive devices. On Monday, April 29, the UCLA Anderson Center for Global Management hosted a discussion over dinner with technology and legal experts who explored the business, policy and legal issues surrounding the Huawei case, and also provided lessons for future global leaders in the audience. The discussion was moderated by Christine Loh, a visiting professor at UCLA Anderson who teaches a course on non-market risks, a lawyer by training and also a former government minister in Hong Kong. Panelists included UCLA alumnus, Craig Ehrlich (B.A. ’78), chair of the Center for Global Management and former chairman of the GSMA — the world’s largest trade association for the mobile industry, whose business and investing career has focused on the mobile and technology sectors; and two experienced lawyers who have had to deal with some of the types of issues that the case raises: Gary Lincenberg, a principal at Bird, Marella, Boxer, Wolpert, Nessim, Drooks, Lincenberg & Rhow, P.C. and Jason Linder, a partner with Irell & Manella LLP. The discussion addressed the Foreign Corrupt Practices Act, U.S. trade sanctions, cyber-based national security issues and how these have accelerated as well as how U.S. law might be used. The possible wider implications and scenarios that could evolve from these positions and how the cost and timing of 5G rollout might also be influenced were also addressed. The event engaged over 100 students and faculty from UCLA Anderson, UCLA School of Law and UCLA Luskin School of Public Affairs in a fascinating discussion around this very complex case. The World Today Discussion Series engages students in dialogue in an interactive, engaging and enriching discussion format around current global issues that transcend borders. Through the series, the CGM engages globally minded students with issues that matter and ideas that stimulate. Through balanced discourse, the series serves as a neutral forum to educate students on global issues while at the same time encourage debate and examination. 

x
Learn more...
Monday, April 22, 2019, 7.00-9.00pm Wolfgang Puck, UCLA Ackerman Union

UCLA Anderson Latin American Business Association (LABA) Organizes Mixer for LABA Students to Network with LABA Alumni, Living and Working in Los Angeles

On Monday, April 22, LABA leaders organized an evening of networking and camaraderie at the Wolfgang Puck restaurant located in the heart of the UCLA campus. The 2019 LABA Alumni Mixer, organized by LABA and sponsored by the Center for Global Management and Anderson Student Association, gathered together around 15 first and second year full-time MBA students and members of the UCLA Anderson Latin-American alumni community who live and work in the greater Los Angeles area. This is the second year that the CGM has supported LABA to promote this event that seeks foster a bond that goes beyond the two or three years that students spend at UCLA Anderson and promote lifelong connections and friendships to assist with networking, recruiting and increasing school engagement.

This year, alumni who work at companies such as Boeing, Mattel, Riot Games, Safra, Sony Pictures and 7 Bridges LATAM attended the mixer. The evening provided a terrific forum for students to learn more from alumni about the companies as employers, possible recruiting opportunities as well as life after the MBA. Professor Gonzalo Freixes, associate dean of the FEMBA and EMBA programs, originally from Cuba and a strong supporter of many LABA initiatives, attended and engaged in conversations with students and alumni. The event also provided an opportunity for alumni to familiarize themselves with both the CGM and LABA-led programming such as the Latin American Business Conference and various speaker series and panel discussions. It also reinforced the commitment of “Sharing Success” between alumni and the younger generations, promoting collaboration and potentially generating future partnerships and business opportunities too. We are delighted to see this event becoming an annual tradition for bringing together current and former LABA members!

x
Learn more...
Friday, April 19, 2019, 11:30 AM - 7:30 PM, UCLA Anderson School of Management

2019 Wilbur K. Woo Greater China Business Conference: A Dialogue Across the Pacific

On Friday, April 19, 2019, the Center for Global Management hosted the 13 th annual  Wilbur K. Woo Greater China Business Conference at the UCLA Anderson School of Management. The 2019 Conference, titled, "A Dialogue Across the Pacific," brought together successful U.S. and Chinese leaders, investors and influencers from a variety of industries and sectors who shared their perspectives on the changing dynamics of U.S.-China relations and the implications and future of the U.S.-Sino relationship.

Speakers, including UCLA and UCLA Anderson alumni and faculty members addressed an audience of over 300 attendees from the UCLA as well as business, investment and governmental communities. Discussion focused on new and creative investment strategies and partnerships as well as the importance of collaboration that embraces cooperation, stimulates innovation, drives sustainable economic growth and facilitates cross-border growth and expansion. Speakers also provided an analysis of the current state and future outlook of the two largest economies in the world and addressed the importance of innovation, collaboration and new technology. 

Following a lunchtime career panel discussion for UCLA students with UCLA and UCLA Anderson alumni, the conference was officially opened by UCLA Anderson's Interim Dean and Faculty Director of the Price Center for Entrepreneurship and Innovation. Alfred E. Osborne Jr.; Michael Woo, Los Angeles' first Asian-American city councilman, son of conference founder Wilbur K. Woo (B.A. '42) and dean of Cal Poly Pomona College of Environmental Design; and Pin Tai, CEO and president of Cathay Bancorp and Cathay Bank, a platinum sponsor of the 2019 conference. This was followed by the keynote address, delivered by Zak Dychtwald, founder and CEO of the Young China Group and a macro overview and business perspective delivered by William Yu, economist with the UCLA Anderson Forecast and Chan Fong, partner at PwC, also a platinum sponsor of the 2019 conference. 

Plenary and concurrent sessions throughout the afternoon focused on U.S.-China relations and the opportunities and implications for cross-border business and investment, Chinese millennials and the emerging middle class, and the implications and opportunities for business. A range of other topics also were addressed, including: technological innovation and the importance of collaboration in advanced technologies, scientific advancements and R&D; improving people's wellbeing and the opportunities in health care, elder care, housing, education and environmental protection; and investment financing, entrepreneurship and growth strategies resulting from cross-border investment. The evening before the conference, the Center for Global Management hosted a private dinner for the speakers, moderators, student conference directors and sponsors in the executive dining room. Following the conference, a networking event was held in the same room which provided wonderful opportunities for the audience and speakers to continue conversations.

The conference featured speakers from American Wonder Porcelain, Ampaire Inc., Applied StemCell Inc., Cathay Bank, Consulate General of P.R. China in Los Angeles, Elavare Global Advisors, Global Win Capital Corporation, Google, Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, HowardSchultz.com, Hylink USA, Johnson & Johnson, Landsea Homes, Maschoff Brennan, PwC, RAND Corporation, RedBridge Capital LLC, The Blueshirt Group, University of California Office of the President, USC Gould School of Law, Young China Group and the UCLA Anderson School of Management.

"Amid today's international economic tensions, it is critically important to understand the implications and future of China-U.S. economic policy for anyone involved in cross-border transactions in the Pacific Rim," says Jerry Nickelsburg, UCLA Anderson adjunct professor of economics and UCLA Anderson Forecast director and senior economist, who served as the moderator for the panel on U.S.-China relations." The continuing dialogue of the Wilbur K. Woo Greater China Business Conference provides a valuable forum for deepening our understanding." Born in China in 1916, the late Wilbur K. Woo (B.A. '42) received his bachelor's degree in business administration from UCLA. Wilbur K. Woo, vice chairman emeritus of Cathay Bank and Cathay Bancorp, was known for his decades of leadership in the Chinese-American community. Together with his wife, Beth, they endowed the Wilbur K. Woo Greater China Business Conference at UCLA Anderson with the goal of promoting understanding of the economic ties between the Greater China region and United States. They established the conference to show gratitude for the training Wilbur received at his alma mater many years ago. 

The 2019 Wilbur K. Woo Greater China Business Conference was organized by the Center for Global Management at the UCLA Anderson School of Management, in association with UCLA Anderson's Greater China Business Association (GCBA) and UCLA's Chinese Students and Scholars Association (CSSA). It was sponsored by PwC and Cathay Bank at the platinum level. Landsea Homes and Cox Castle Nicholson were silver and bronze sponsors, respectively. The China General Chamber of Commerce - Los Angeles, Los Angeles World Affairs Council, UCLA Asia Pacific Center and UCLA Center for Chinese Studies were supporting organizations. 

x
Learn more...
Monday, April 15 through Thursday, April 18, 2019

7th UCLA Annual Latin American, LatinX and Iberian Film Festival: Women's Voices

The UCLA Latin American and Iberian Film Festival was founded in 2012 and has been running annually ever since. The Festival has been very effective in promoting recent Latin American and Iberian cinema, not only among the academic world, but also in the Los Angeles community at large. Working with more than twenty departments, centers and organizations, the 2019 festival, organized by the UCLA Department of Spanish and Portuguese raised funds to organize a multi-day festival that ran from Monday, April 15 through Thursday, April 18.

The 7th Annual Latin American, Latinx, and Iberian Film Festival: Women's Voices celebrated women filmmakers and featured screenings of twelve films produced and/or directed by female directors from Brazil, Chile, Dominican Republic, Mexico, Spain, and the United States. This was the first year that films made in the U.S. by Latinx filmmakers were included as part of the festival, with the aim to acknowledge and share the traditions, history and language of the Luso-Hispanic community around the world. 

The screenings took place at various venues on the UCLA campus, from the James Bridges Theater to the presentation room at the Charles E. Young Research Library. All screenings were followed by a Q&A session with the film directors as well as professors from various departments on campus. The opening night at the James Bridge Theater included a screening of "Real Women Have Curves" (United States, 2002), followed by a Q&A with the film's director, Patricia Cardoso, moderated by graduate student Gabriela Barrios. The festival concluded with a screening of "As Boas Maneiras" (Brazil, 2017), directed by Juliana Rojas and Marco Dutra and was followed by a Q&A with Juliana Rojas, moderated by graduate student Michelle Medrado and visiting professor Eliane Robert Moraes.  All screenings were preceded by a reception, featuring food from Spain and Mexico. 

On Thursday, April 18, following the screening of Cielo de Agua, Professor Sebastian Edwards moderated a panel discussion with Chilean filmmakers, Eugenia Poseck and Margarita Poseck. The panel also included Professor Verónica Cortínez, professor in the UCLA Department of Spanish and Portuguese and director of the UCLA Center for Southern Cone Studies. The panel discussed the book Fértil provincia y señalada: Raúl Ruiz y el campo del cine chileno, edited by Professor Cortínez. During the discussion, the panelists also talked about Poseck´s feature film Heaven (Cielo de Agua, Chile, 2018) which was screened at the festival two nights before and the short film Tide (Marea, Chile, 2007) that was screened on Thursday, April 18.  

The 2019 Latin American, Latinx and Iberian Film Festival: Women's Voices was organized and presented by the UCLA Department of Spanish and Portuguese and sponsored by various units on campus, including the UCLA Anderson Center for Global Management, Latin American Institute, Center for Southern Cone Studies, Department of Gender Studies and the LGBTQ Studies Program, among others. The screenings were free and open to the public.

x
Learn more...
Wednesday, April 10, 2019, 12:15 PM – 1:30 PM, UCLA School of Law

"Law and Macroeconomics: Legal Remedies to Recessions" with Yair Listokin, Professor of Law, Yale Law School

In his new book, Law and Macroeconomics: Legal Remedies to Recessions, Yair Listokin, Shibley Family Fund Professor of Law at Yale Law School proposes that we take seriously law’s ability to function as a macroeconomic tool, capable of stimulating demand when needed and relieving demand when it threatens to overheat economies. He argues that law, of all things, has the potential to rescue us from the next economic crisis. Listokin makes his case by looking at both positive and cautionary examples, going back to the New Deal and including the Keystone Pipeline, the constitutionally fraught bond-buying program unveiled by the European Central Bank at the nadir of the Eurozone crisis, the ongoing Greek crisis, and the experience of U.S. price controls in the 1970s. History has taught us that law is an unwieldy instrument of macroeconomic policy, but Listokin argues that under certain conditions it offers a vital alternative to the monetary and fiscal policy tools that stretch the legitimacy of technocratic central banks near their breaking point while leaving the rest of us waiting and wallowing. During a lunchtime presentation on Wednesday, April 10, 2019 in front of a packed room of students and faculty from both the UCLA School of Law and Anderson School of Management, Listokin discussed his new book which was then followed by a moderated Q&A with UCLA Professor of Law, Jason Oh. Listokin has been honored with a Milton Friedman Fellowship from the Becker-Friedman Institute at the University of Chicago and has served as a Visiting Professor at Columbia Law School, Harvard Law School, and New York University School of Law. His research has been featured in the Wall Street Journal, Fortune, cnn.com, Boston Globe, and Slate. The event was organized by the Lowell Milken Institute for Business Law and Policy and sponsored by the UCLA Anderson Center for Global Management.

x
Learn more...
Tuesday, April 9, 2019, 6:30 PM - 8:30 PM, Korn Convocation Hall

Film Screening of “Better Angels,” A feature documentary film on the U.S.-China relationship, followed by Moderated Discussion with Film’s Producers

During the evening of Tuesday, April 9 and in advance of UCLA’s 2019 Wilbur K. Woo Greater China Business Conference, the Center for Global Management in collaboration with the Los Angeles World Affairs Council hosted a film screening of Better Angels, a feature documentary on the U.S.-China relationship. The screening attracted an audience of over 100 students, alumni and members of the Los Angeles community who gathered in Korn Convocation Hall to watch the screening Better Angels, which was produced over five years, shot on four continents, and created with the participation of three U.S. Secretaries of State. The documentary captures compelling stories that highlight the global stakes, challenges and opportunities of the world’s most important bilateral relationship. At a time when the world’s two acknowledged superpowers seem to be moving closer towards economic and political conflict, this feature documentary by two-time Academy Award®–winning director Malcolm Clarke explores how the destiny of both countries became so deeply and inextricably intertwined. By examining the day-to-day lives of ordinary Chinese and American citizens this feature-length documentary asks: Can the United States survive the rise of China? Is confrontation inevitable? Or, by rediscovering our Better Angels, can we find a way to grow beyond our mutual suspicions and misperceptions, to create a stable and prosperous alliance that could benefit the entire world? Following the screening, Professor Min Zhou, Walter and Shirley Wang Endowed Chair in U.S.-China Relations & Communications, and Director of the UCLA Asia Pacific Center moderated a conversation with William A. Mundell and David Dreier, the film’s producer and co-executive producer, respectively who were later flying to Beijing where Better Angels would serve as the opening documentary at the 2019 Beijing Film Festival. The event was organized by the Center for Global Management, in collaboration with the Los Angeles World Affairs Council. Screening sponsors included the UCLA’s Asia Pacific Center, Center for Chinese Studies and Burkle Center for International Relations as well as UCLA Anderson’s Greater China Business Association and UCLA’s Chinese Students and Scholars Association.

x
Learn more...
Sunday, March 24 – Saturday, March 30, 2019

39 students visit Shenzhen and Hong Kong as part of the CGM’s global immersion course, “A Technology Driven Transformation of Society, Enterprises and Consumers,” led by Terry Kramer, adjunct professor and faculty director, Easton Technology Management Center

In March, over spring break, 39 students from UCLA Anderson’s full-time, fully employed, executive and UCLA-NUS executive MBA programs visited Shenzhen and Hong Kong for the in-country week of the CGM’s global immersion course, “A Technology Driven Transformation of Society, Enterprises and Consumers,” led by Terry Kramer, adjunct professor and faculty director of the Easton Technology Management Center. At UCLA Anderson, Professor Kramer also teaches the foundational technology management course that covers the impact of disruptive innovation on products, services, markets and competition, and another course on the evolution and innovation in the mobile communications industry and promising areas of innovation.

A notable transformation is occurring in Hong Kong and the surrounding region of Shenzhen. This technology driven transformation has been enabled by Government policy, changes in consumer preferences and enterprise driven innovation. During the course, students learned a great deal about and experienced firsthand the transformation in the region and for China and Hong Kong more broadly in areas such fintech, high-tech smart manufacturing and internet services, specifically drawing upon contextual leadership—identifying the “cause and effect” of the successes in the region and the likely future outcomes and areas of innovation.

During the week in-country, students heard from many prominent business and technology leaders, founders and CEOs, academics as well as successful entrepreneurs. They also met with and had the opportunity to hear from successful and influential UCLA and UCLA Anderson alumni and saw firsthand the power, influence and connections of the UCLA brand and network in China and Hong Kong. A number of fireside chats, panel discussions and several conversations helped illuminate the region’s political, economic, and innovation-oriented environment, and the significant changes that have occurred over the last several decades. Students visited companies and heard from executives across several sectors which demonstrated the transformation in the region and for China more broadly in areas such fintech, high-tech smart manufacturing, social media and internet services. Visits such as Tencent/WeChat, Foxconn, DJI, Mindray and Royole, as well as other emerging artificial intelligence and fintech companies were important in telling the story.

In Shenzhen, the inaugural speakers on the first day provided terrific context and foundation. First, students heard from Joe Rocha, managing director of Greenpro Capital Corporation, who also serves as the governor of the South China AmCham and has been a key member of the South China business community for over ten years. His presentation looked at the China of today and tomorrow and its transformation of society through new technologies. He provided an excellent overview of the Chinese economy and discussed the specific areas of technology based innovation that he felt have the greatest promise. He also addressed the opportunities for Chinese companies to expand globally and in turn for U.S. companies to expand into China. Derek Haoyang Li, a serial entrepreneur, founder and CEO of Yixue Squirrel AI Learning, who has been recognized as one of the “Top 30 AI-Entrepreneurs in China” then addressed the artificial intelligence solution in education and the unique challenges and opportunities that Chinese companies have in AI vs. other nations. Squirrel AI Learning is an edtech company that educates children through artificial intelligence and helps children to advance learning through a real-time adaptive system and cultivate good learning habits with practice.

The first visit of the week was to HAX Shenzhen, located in the well-known electronics market area of Shenzhen. HAX, which started in 2012 is the first and most prolific full-stack hardware accelerator, with over 270 companies launched in the past five years. The students also visited Mindray. Founded in 1991, Mindray has adopted advanced technologies and is today one of the leading global providers of medical devices. The company’s mission is “to advance medical technologies to make healthcare more accessible.” Mindray is dedicated to innovation in the fields of patient monitoring and life support, in-vitro diagnostics, and medical imaging. Students had an opportunity to hear from its CEO, Cheng Minghe about the unique Chinese context and the areas of innovation that the company is involved in. Students also visited Foxconn to learn about its autonomous vehicle initiative, smart farming and enterprise supply chain management platform. A visit to DJI (Da-Jiang Innovations Science and Technology), the world’s largest drone-maker provided an opportunity for students to learn more about its range of products including unmanned aerial vehicles, flying platforms, flight controllers for multi-rotors and ground stations. Students also vised Royole, a tech unicorn that was founded by Stanford engineering graduates in 2012 whose mission is to improve the way people interact with and perceive their world. The company creates and manufactures next-generation human-machine interface technologies and products including advanced flexible displays, flexible sensors, and smart devices – some of which the students had the opportunity to test out. In an entrepreneurial lab set up at Bee+ Technology’s impressive co-working space in Nanshan, students learned about the tech startup scene and heard from four different local tech entrepreneurs and their respective businesses ranging from virtual reality to manufacturing to the IoT and blockchain. The entrepreneurs they discussed the feasibility of their current projects and particular challenges they are facing. Student also heard from Kent Zaitlik, CEO and founder of MOZI.AI and learned about the application of AI in biomedicine and the AI-based play in healthcare.

A highlight of the week was the visit to Tencent’s headquarters and a tour of its Exhibition Hall. Here, students learned more about Tencent’s story, the company’s evolution and its remarkable innovations, including Tencent Games; WeChat; Tencent Pictures; e-Sports; its smart retail where you can pay by face recognition using the WeChat wallet; Tencent AI lab and its AI medical innovation too. Nan Wang, a director in Tencent’s strategy development department addressed the group. She touched on many areas, including how Tencent maximizes user engagement on its platforms and explained that maximizing user engagement remains the core of Internet competition. She talked about the Internet-led digital transformation that is being seen across all fields i.e. commerce, transportation, healthcare, food and beverage as well as finance and suggested that Internet companies are driving technological innovations. Tencent is transforming itself from a 2C (consumer) company to a 2B (business) company. She addressed Tencent’s strategy and also its strategic partnerships which enrich Tencent’s ecosystem and empowers partners in key verticals. This visit and discussion was a very memorable and invaluable part of the students in-country global immersion experience.

In Shenzhen, Edison Song (B.A. ’12), president of the UCLA South China Alumni Association arranged a UCLA alumni gathering at the rooftop bar of the Grand Hyatt Hotel. In addition to a number of UCLA Anderson students from the course, there were also a number of UCLA and UCLA Anderson alumni in attendance who either resided in Shenzhen, were passing through on business or who made the trip from Hong Kong. Everyone enjoyed a nice evening of networking.

After three days in Shenzhen, the group traveled to Hong Kong. The inaugural visit was to EMQ. Launched in 2014, EMQ offers cross-border remittance (money transfer) services between two countries at a fraction of the price of conventional banks. Max Liu, EMQ’s co-founder and CEO explained how fragmented Asia is with different regulations, different settlement systems and different currencies and explained how he wanted to build an alternative settlement network. He gave a very insightful presentation with an illumination of the market and market structure, competitive environment, and EMQ's positioning and most importantly, the impact of “digital.” We later heard from Professor KC Chan, former Secretary for Financial Services and the Treasury of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region and adjunct professor of finance at HKUST. Since July 2018, he has also served as a senior advisor for WeLab. Founded in 2013 in Hong Kong, WeLab is reinventing traditional financial services by creating seamless mobile lending experiences. He talked about the strategy, business model and related successes of WeLab as well as the disruption and innovations that have taken place in the financial markets. Professor Chan also provided his unique perspective on Hong Kong’s fintech ecosystem at the intersection of government and academia. Elinor Leung, managing director of the regional telecom and internet team at CLSA, one of Asia’s leading capital markets and investment groups shared extremely informative insights on Internet services, China and global trade related issues. She has been covering the Internet giants since they first listed. Her research covers areas such as e-payments, finance, entertainment and the cloud.

On the Thursday evening, UCLA Anderson alumni as well as recently admitted students gathered at the Mira Hotel in Tsim Sha Tsui on Nathan Road for an alumni panel discussion and networking reception. Around 16 guests attended. Professor Kramer moderated a conversation with UCLA Anderson alumni Fritz Demopoulos (’97), founder of Queen’s Road Capital; Long (Alex) Shang Ying (B.S. ’92; ‘01), managing partner of Rivendell Partners; and Leland Sun (’86), founder and managing director of Pan Asian Mortgage Company. Alumni talked about their career trajectory post-Anderson and shared their thoughts and insights on the technology driven transformation of society, enterprises and consumers from their personal as well as own industry perspective. They did an excellent job describing both the macro and micro investment environment in China which really helped students better understand both the opportunities and challenges of innovation in the region. Everyone then enjoyed an evening of networking in the hotel’s Vibes Garden. The panel discussion was very well received and the networking reception was a tremendous success. It was wonderful to see so many alumni and students networking together and the significant strength and influence of the UCLA Anderson network in Hong Kong.

During their time in Hong Kong, students traveled by metro and on foot to experience the city the way locals travel. On the last day, the group traveled by MTR to The Hub co-working space and were able to compare and contrast the co-working space in Hong Kong with what they had visited in Shenzhen. Daniel Puzny, founder of the International Blockchain Lab which works with new technologies, focused on blockchain, addressed blockchains in Asia, bitcoin and cryptocurrencies and explained that blockchain as a digital registry is designed to disrupt multiple verticals, including digital currency, health and real estate. The final speaker of the week, Renu Bhatia, co-founder of Asia Fintech Angels and an advisor to FintechHK, addressed the fintech ecosystem in Hong Kong. The breath of her comments covering China, Hong Kong, India and the U.S. were high impact and her focus on fintech innovation all contextualized with her leadership learnings and approaches were invaluable. Students learned a lot about the region, innovation and decision-making from her. This was a terrific session to conclude the week.

On the last day or the course, some students enjoyed a very pleasant afternoon getaway from the hustle and bustle of the city and traveled to the beautiful Lantau Island to visit the Giant Buddha and Po Lin Monastery. Others enjoyed emblematic views from the top of Victoria Peak, explored the luxurious residential area of Repulse Bay and also visited Aberdeen Fishing Village, a picturesque floating harbor with seafood markets and floating restaurants. During the week, students had many opportunities to enjoy some of China’s culinary delights, including the famous Peking duck at 1949, on the roof top of the famous Happy Coast Shopping mall in the Nanshan District and then at the end of the week, they enjoyed some local Cantonese cuisine at NanHai No. 1 on Nathan Road with a great view of the harbor and city. On the Saturday, some enjoyed Art Basel to explore Asia’s international art scene, others took in more sights of Hong Kong while other students departed home or headed to other parts of Asia. This first technology-focused global immersion course helped students to understand the dynamic growth of Shenzhen juxtaposed against the historic prosperity of Hong Kong. And in the process of understanding these two fascinating success stories, the course uncovered the "cause-and-effect" relationship of government policy and the changes in consumer preferences and technology in driving unique outcomes. Students thoroughly enjoyed their time and experience in Shenzhen and Hong Kong – they learned a great deal about and experienced firsthand the transformation in the region and for China and Hong Kong more broadly in areas such fintech, high-tech smart manufacturing and internet services; they were inspired; met good friends; and had a truly immersive experience together.

x
Learn more...
Sunday, March 24 – Saturday, March 30, 2019

40 students travel to Bogota and Medellin, for the CGM’s global immersion course to learn about “The Transformation of Colombia and Its Economy,” with Gonzalo Freixes, associate dean of the FEMBA and EMBA programs

During the same week of winter break, 40 students from UCLA Anderson’s full-time, fully employed and executive MBA programs traveled together to Bogota and Medellin for the in-country week of the CGM’s global immersion course, “The Transformation of Colombia and Its Economy: From Plomo to Plata,” led by Gonzalo Freixes, adjunct professor and associate dean of the fully employed and executive MBA programs. This was the second time that the CGM visited Colombia for one of its courses and the first time that Medellin was included in the itinerary.

A lot has changed in Colombia over the last few decades. After years of violence and political instability, the country has transformed itself into one of Latin America’s leading economies. The government has made substantial progress in tackling the country’s illegal drug trafficking and reaching a settlement with revolutionary elements that have impeded the country’s growth and stability. At the same time, Colombia has experienced economic growth and prosperity as it has embraced a free trade economy. While many problems remain and economic growth has been stagnant in the region, Colombia has transformed itself into something of a Latin American success story. Foreign investment into the country and the growth of key domestic industries has made Colombia one of the best places in Latin America to do business. The second global immersion course to focus on Colombia provided students with a general overview of the country and its economy, as well as key insights and a deeper understanding of how Colombia managed this transformation and what it has meant for doing business in the country. The in-country portion of the course looked at some of the major industries and sectors in Colombia and immersed students in Colombian business and social culture.

The inaugural sessions took place in Bogota on Saint Joseph’s Day, a public holiday in Colombia, also referred to as “Dia del Hombre.” The opening speakers provided excellent context and a helpful framework for the week. First, Colombian journalist, John Otis provided a terrific overview of the many historical and cultural challenges facing the country. This was then followed by a presentation and discussion with UCLA Anderson alumnus, Andres Giraldo (’09), a principal at The Boston Consulting Group, who was joined by Wenyi Cai, managing partner of Polymath Ventures. In addition to talking about his time as a student at UCLA Anderson, Giraldo focused his presentation on the retail sector and highlighted several of the larger companies that operate throughout all of Latin America. Cai talked about Polymath Ventures, a digital venture group focused on innovating in sectors that are currently experiencing technological disruption. Cai believes these new technological solutions will be significantly different in emerging market segments, e.g. mobility, employment and health and wellness. Later, two UCLA Anderson alumni brothers, Igal Jinich (’95) and Zeev Jinich (’90) talked about their company Ciplas SAS, a third-generation family-owned and operated plastics manufacturing business in Colombia. Ciplas is a leading company in the transformation and commercialization of products made with polypropylene. The company’s product portfolio includes sacks and bags, canvases and tents, ropes and mesh packaging for sectors such as agro-industrial, petrochemical, mining and textiles. The brothers discussed the challenges of doing business in Colombia, the legal and tax frameworks, the labor laws and also the business opportunities that the country presents. The brothers each spoke about what led them to UCLA Anderson and ultimately to the business that they both now manage. Students were honored to have the opportunity to meet such successful and influential alumni living and working in the country.

Students also had the opportunity to learn about the flower sector through a visit to Bicco Farms, located on the rural outskirts of Bogota which produces and exports award-winning fresh cut flowers. Here, students heard from the farm’s general manager Mauricio Bonivento, who addressed the production process and the business of flower growers in Colombia. Bonivento discussed the challenges around the seasonal nature of the industry and how national and international holidays often dictate the color of flowers most desired by retail customers. Students enjoyed a guided tour of the nursery and greenhouse where the flowers are grown, the factory where the flowers are harvested, and the cold storage/refrigeration locations where the flowers are ultimately processed and packaged for distribution.

In 2011 UNESCO declared the "Coffee Cultural Landscape" of Colombia, a World Heritage site so a visit to Colombia would not be complete without learning more about Colombia’s important coffee sector. FEDECAFE, the National Federation of Coffee Growers of Colombia was founded in 1927 as a business association that promotes production and exportation of Colombian coffee. It currently represents over 540,000 producers, most of whom are small family owned farms. Maricela Aguinaga Arcon, a research economist for the Coffee Growers Federation, addressed the implementation of the public policies in place to support Columbia’s coffee trade, and discussed the retail landscape associated with coffee both in Colombia and around the world. Arcon further discussed the Federation’s role in the coffee trade, including quality control, market positioning, purchase guarantees and its contributions to the infrastructure of the country through development and construction in previously rural portions of the country.

In Bogota, students also learned about the challenges and opportunities of the real estate industry in the country from Margarita Llorente, the general secretary of Amarilo, a leader in the promotion, management, sale and construction of housing projects. Santiago Alvarez, CEO of LatAm Airlines, the second largest air carrier in Colombia addressed the company’s strategy and also competition in the airline industry. Alvarez explained that the challenges of the industry necessitate the company to generate creative solutions to drive revenue and growth. Lastly, in Bogota, the group visited the National Police Department of Intelligence to hear more about the political and economic situation in Colombia and the progress that the country has made over the last three decades from Diego Fernando Vallejo Garcia, professor of the Universidad de los Andes. Two high-ranking members of the Colombian National Police, General Gustavo Alberto Moreno Maldonado and Brigadier General Ramiro Alberto Riveros Arevalo both discussed the role of the National police in the region, the security challenges they face while highlighting Colombia’s commitment to security to ensure that it remains a stable and safe place for economic development.

Students then traveled to Medellin. The position of Medellín as the second industrial city in Colombia has been a main factor in overcoming its crises of the 1980s and 1990s. In February 2013, the Urban Land Institute chose Medellín as the most innovative city in the world due to its recent advances in politics, education and social development. Medellín also won the Lee Kuan Yew World City Prize 2016 which recognizes and celebrates efforts in furthering innovation in urban solutions and sustainable urban development.

During the first day in Medellin, students visited Ruta N, a technology incubator that develops various programs and services to facilitate the economic development of the city towards businesses in science, technology and innovation, in an inclusive and sustainable way. The objective of RutaN is to create an ecosystem for social and innovative change designed around talent, financial capital, legal and technological infrastructure and proper networking. At Ruta N several technology entrepreneurs shared their stories and discussed their various companies and projects including Vitalbox, a medical records platform and Red_Medellin, a company with aims to both create cheap, ubiquitous access to broadband internet for underserved communities and to give formerly unbanked individuals a way to transact digitally.

At Bancolombia, Camilo Velasquez, the bank’s director of innovation explained some of the challenges of being a regional bank in a country which has significant variability in population centers and geographical challenges, requiring Bancolombia to be nimble and investor focused. Students also learned about the fintech revolution that is taking place globally. Bancolombia has also been recognized for its sustainability focus and Andres Perilla, a sustainability analyst spoke to some of the sustainable business practices that Bancolombia seeks to finance in an effort to cater to the millennial generation. He explained that Bancolombia focuses its investment strategy on companies that seek out sustainable practices through energy efficiency, use of renewable energy and cleaner production of existing energy sources.

In Medellin, students also visited Globant to hear how the company generates value and positively impacts its community. Globant is a leading IT and software development company that seeks to connect users with brands using digital and cognitive technologies and methodologies to enhance the customer experience.

The students also attended a presentation at Sura, one of Colombia’s largest healthcare providers. At Sura, students learned about the current state of the healthcare system in Colombia, including the differences between Colombia’s private versus public health insurance systems, and experienced some of the technological solutions that Sura is integrating into Colombia’s evolving healthcare system.

The final presentation of the week was delivered by UCLA Anderson alumnus Juan Chusan (B.S. ’88, ’96), president of Retail Food at Nutresa, a leading food-processing conglomerate headquartered in Medellín. Nutresa’s principal activities are producing, distributing, and selling cold cuts, biscuits, chocolates, coffee, ice cream and pasta. In addition to sharing his own personal and inspiring story where he described coming from South America to UCLA Anderson, Chusan also described Nutresa’s business philosophy of treating each of its brands as a business unit, allowing each to serve as a natural hedge against the others. Chusan shared some valuable lessons related to the expansion of a multinational company into new markets including considerations of not just the size of a market, but also the logistics associated with managing a company in a foreign country.

After learning about the coffee sector earlier in the week from FEDECAFE, a visit to Colombia would not be complete without a visit to an actual coffee farm. At Capilla del Rosario, overlooking the Medellin Valley, the group received a tour of the coffee plantation and learned about the process of how coffee beans are grown, harvested, peeled, fermented, dried, and ultimately packaged and sold. In addition to learning about the chemistry and science behind the brewing of coffee, the students were treated to a Columbian coffee tasting as well.

To conclude the week, the group witnessed firsthand the transformation and innovation of the city with a tour of Comuna 13. This neighborhood has among the most tumultuous histories in the city and was once labeled the most dangerous neighborhood in the world. In the 1980s-’90s, the neighborhood was controlled by groups loyal to Pablo Escobar, the notorious drug lord who lived in Medellín. Students learned how the community has reinvented itself into a place of optimism becoming a livable, vibrant, and growing community. The focal point of the tour to Comuna 13 was the area around the outdoor escalators that provides access to homes in marginalized barrios that were formerly isolated from the city. Today, this transformed neighborhood is home to a colorful celebration of arts and culture, featuring street art and performances in several different parts of the neighborhood. Art saved the city as a vehicle for creative and political expression. The walls became a canvas to tell its history, beautifying the area and bringing optimism and peace to the residents, children, and visitors. Experiencing the life and color to the people in this community and seeing their potential for the future was an inspiring way to conclude the in-country week.

During the week, students also experienced local culture, visited key sites of important historical significance and enjoyed local cuisine and nightlife. In Bogota, they enjoyed a city tour and visited sites such as the historic square of Chorro de Quevedo, and the Botero Museum, which houses one of Latin America's most important international art collections. In Bogota, they also visited the Anthony Bourdain-featured restaurant, Tabula with great tapas, as well as Abasto, a nice, cozy and casual Latin bistro. The students enjoyed the opening dinner at the casual popular eatery Andres DC in Bogota. They were joined by UCLA Anderson alumni brothers Igal Jinich (’95) and Zeev Jinich (’90). In Medellin, the farewell dinner took place at Carmen Medellin, an enchanting space with a cozy yet hip vibe situated inside a house in the Poblado neighborhood. Here students enjoyed contemporary cuisine, inspired by Colombian ingredients and flavors that are creatively woven into modern dishes that express the country’s biodiversity. The dinner served as a wonderful end to a very productive and meaningful cultural experience. After the conclusion of the week, some students headed to explore the historic port city of Cartagena on Colombia’s Caribbean coast, while others traveled back home to the United States to start back at school or work.

x
Learn more...
Sunday, March 24 – Saturday, March 30, 2019

40 students travel to Tokyo, for the CGM’s global immersion course to understand more about “The Business Environment and Opportunities in Japan,” with Mariko Sakakibara, professor of strategy

During the same week of spring break, 40 students from UCLA Anderson’s full-time, fully employed, executive and UCLA-NUS executive MBA programs traveled together to Tokyo for the in-country week of the CGM’s global immersion course, “The Business Environment and Opportunities in Japan,” led by Mariko Sakakibara, professor of strategy. This was the fourth time that a global immersion course had visited Japan and the third time that Professor Sakakibara had led the course.

After achieving spectacular economic growth from the 1950s to the 1980s, Japan has struggled with a prolonged recession in recent years. Its competitive position has been threatened by its Asian competitors. Japan’s aging population threatens its future growth. However, Japan remains the third largest economy in the world, and maintains its strong technological and cultural base. Japan-originated innovation has been commercialized and sold around the world, new businesses have been created and many business opportunities remain untapped. This course familiarized students with Japan’s business environment and helped students to identify business opportunities. Students gained a better understanding of the effects of Japanese systems on the way business is conducted in Japan and also explored business opportunities for both foreign and domestic companies and how to take advantage of these opportunities.

In Tokyo, the inaugural session was delivered by Terrie Lloyd, CEO of both Japan Travel, a leading resource for Japan travel information and Metroworks, a software technology company. He provided an overview of the business landscape in Japan and discussed the opportunities for U.S. companies. Lloyd also shared some insights into doing business in the country as a foreigner and addressed the Japanese mindset and cultural nuances that are important to understand. Dave Versteeg, CFO of Starbucks Japan then explained the history of Starbucks Japan, which was established in October 1995 as a joint venture between Sazaby League and Starbucks Coffee International. His presentation focused on how to become successful in the Japanese market. He compared and contrasted Japan’s business environment with that of the United States and explained how Japanese consumers are different to American consumers and that they are very influenced by the new and different, which is why Starbucks Japan has to create a new menu item every few weeks. Japanese consumers also typically stay in the coffee shop to drink coffee and are less inclined to grab and go therefore the location and space itself is highly valued by the consumer. Versteeg explained how Starbucks has to adapt to the Japanese consumer and implement different techniques in order to be a strong player in Japan’s coffee market.

The first company visit of the week was to the headquarters of Amazon Japan where the group was greeted by UCLA Anderson alumnus Shea Simpson (’11), head of licensing and label relations for Amazon Music Japan. Students heard from different Amazon businesses and learned how U.S. multinationals adapt to the Japanese consumer. Dan Callies, director of devices for Amazon Japan and Misako Furuya, head of Echo for Amazon Japan talked about the struggles of Echo in Japan and the challenges they currently face. Simpson provided an overview of the music industry in Japan and the struggles of getting Japan on board with streaming music. Mizue Arakawa, director of Amazon Fresh/Prime Now, Japan addressed the company’s experience with launching Fresh and Prime Now in Japan and explained some of the nuances and unique characteristics of the Japanese market as well as the needs and expectations of the Japanese consumer. During a visit to Terumo, founded in 1921 and the first company to produce medical thermometers in Japan, students learned about the healthcare industry in the country and in particular, the challenges and opportunities of Japan’s aging population. Since Terumo’s humble beginnings, the company has expanded into a medical device manufacturing giant, producing medical disposables, cardiovascular systems and diabetes care products.

Students also had the opportunity to visit, Fabbit, a co-working space and through an interactive panel discussion with local and expat entrepreneurs, were able to better understand Japan’s start-up scene, new government initiatives and funding opportunities as well as fundraising challenges. Panelists included Jordan Fisher, CEO and co-founder of Zehitomo, an Internet platform that connects customers and local services in Japan; Akira Kurabayashi, managing director, Draper Nexus Venture Partners, an early stage venture capital firm based in Silicon Valley and Tokyo that invests in B2B startups; Shirabe Ogino, CEO, Zaisan.net, a user-friendly service that makes it easier for the general public to understand financial markets and make the right investment and asset management decisions; and Yuki Kishi, fintech director at Plug and Play, a global innovation platform that has built accelerator programs, corporate innovation services, and in-house VC to expedite the progress of technological advancement.

At Nissan, students enjoyed a tour of its Oppama plant, one of the country’s largest plants where gasoline and electric-powered vehicles are built, to understand and see firsthand Japan’s cutting-edge manufacturing in action and the latest in car technology. The Oppama plant became the first in Japan to use robots on the production line when it introduced welding robots in 1970. The second part of the visit included a visit to Nissan’s Yokohama headquarters to learn about the company’s corporate strategy, new customer trends as well as challenges ahead for the car industry. They also heard from Yuta Yamazaki, manager, global brand strategy about the companies’ global sales strategy, Nissan Intelligent Mobility, electric vehicle and autonomous driving innovations and visited Nissan’s showroom to see its latest products. A visit to Costco Japan, the membership warehouse club was fascinating for the group. Costco opened its first Japan location in 1999 and since then has grown its presence to 26 stores across the country. The Japanese arm of the business is a wholly owned subsidiary of Costco U.S. Howard Tulk, vice president and director of operations, provided a brief introduction of Costco as well as the history and story of entering the Japanese market. Students learned that while Costco Japan stocks several U.S. brands and Costco private-label products, there are some big differences between the shopping experience in both countries. Because Costco is so unique, Japanese customers look at Costco more like a family trip. Costco Japan also sells some unique items for the Japanese consumer such as fresh sushi platters, different flavored kitkat bars, and Japanese whiskey and beer. The group had the opportunity to explore the Costco warehouse store and make some purchases using their Costco card.

Students were thrilled to have the opportunity to visit DeNA. Established in Tokyo in 1999 as a small start-up with the launch of an online auction service, DeNA has continuously expanded its business portfolio. Today, the company develops and operates a broad range of mobile and online services including games, e-commerce and entertainment content distribution and is a provider of mobile portal and e-commerce websites in Japan. It also owns the Mobage platform, one of the most popular cell phone platforms in Japan. After receiving a brief introduction on the company and hearing about the story and evolution of DeNA, students had the opportunity to hear from the company’s founder, Tomoko Namba who shared her own personal career journey and discussed entrepreneurship in Japan, venture capital in the country and explained some of the challenges to the entrepreneurial mindset in Japan.

During the final visit of the week to NEC, a Japanese multinational provider of IT services and products, students learned about the company’s business strategy and technology development for both domestic and global markets. Founded in 1899, NEC was the first Japanese company to form a joint venture with a foreign company (Western Electric) producing telephones and switches. Currently, NEC is the biggest PC vendor in the country and an important player in the global semiconductor market. Students also learned that NEC is the global leader in the field of biometric authentication and experienced the NEC Future Creation Hub which showcases technologies that the company has developed but are not yet available to the public. Here, business designers, data scientists, technology evangelists and other innovators team up with NEC’s global clients to jointly develop programs that generate social value for the next generation.

To conclude the week, UCLA Anderson alumnus David Nichols ('92), deputy president, representative director and chief administrative officer of State Street Trust & Banking Co. Ltd. discussed the business environment and opportunities in Japan from an investor’s viewpoint. He also talked about his own experience doing business in Japan and shared some key learnings including assimilation into the Japanese culture and negotiating techniques. In the late afternoon, alumni gathered together in Roppongi for an alumni panel discussion, which was later followed by a networking reception. Recently admitted students were also invited to join. Around 20 guests attended. Professor Sakakibara moderated a conversation with UCLA and UCLA alumni who shared their views on the business environment in Japan from their own personal experiences. Panelists included Vic Murai (’62), special advisor, Ichiryu Associates and former chairman, Compaq; Tomohiro Tohyama (LLM '84), co-founding partner of TMI Associates and president of the UCLA Japan Alumni Association; Ken Shibusawa ('87), president and CEO at Commons Asset Management, Inc.; and Riki Kojima (’92), chief of staff, Group CCO at Mitsubishi International Corporation and chairman of the UCLA Anderson Alumni Network Japan. Students also learned about the UCLA Japan Center in Tokyo and how the Japanese UCLA Alumni Association has helped contribute to its establishment. Panelists also addressed the many questions from students on the business climate in the country from what they had seen and experienced during their time in Japan. Topics centered around the hierarchal structure, women in the workforce as well as how Japanese companies are attracting talent. The panel discussion was very well received and the networking reception that followed at the Cedar Chop House and Bar in Roppongi was a terrific success. It was wonderful to see so many alumni and students networking together and the significant strength and influence of the UCLA /Anderson brand and network in Japan.

Students thoroughly enjoyed their time and experience in Japan. The cherry blossoms were in full bloom and the city was beautiful. In addition to the business visits and discussions, students also enjoyed the sites of Tokyo to better understand its culture and history. They visited the ancient Buddhist Asakusa Kannon Temple, Tokyo’s oldest temple and one of its most significant. After exploring the busy Asakusa, they relaxed on a boat down the Sumida River to the beautiful Hamarikyu Gardens where they could explore the gardens and enjoy refreshments at a traditional teahouse. During the week, students also enjoyed local traditional culinary delights. At Shabuzen restaurant, they tasted Japan’s iconic sake and the famous shabu-shabu. Some also enjoyed a foodie tour to experience the sights, sounds and most importantly the tastes of Tokyo that most visitors to not get to experience and explored the districts of Yurakucho, Ginza and Shimbashi. Early one morning, some students visited the fish market and enjoyed fresh slices of sashimi for breakfast. The group also visited Kamakura, a seaside city just south of Tokyo. The political center of medieval Japan, modern-day Kamakura is a prominent resort town with dozens of Buddhist Zen temples and Shinto shrines. Students also successfully navigated the Tokyo Metro, the city’s rapid transit system too.

x
Learn more...
Tuesday, March 12, 2019, 5:00 - 7:00 PM, A-202, Collins Center, UCLA Anderson

The Sustainable State: The Future of Government, Economy and Society - A Book Talk with Chandran Nair

Chandran Nair is the author of The Sustainable State: The Future of Government, Economy and Society and founder and CEO of the Global Institute for Tomorrow, an independent Pan-Asian think tank. On Tuesday, March 12, 2019 UCLA welcomed Nair to campus for an afternoon discussion on his provocative book which argues that the West's market-driven model is not scalable and that development must be directed by a state that is willing and able to intervene in the economy. Corporations need to be directed towards meeting societal needs or otherwise restrained, not unleashed. For Nair, the path towards a sustainable future, especially in the large developing nations of the world, in which everyone's basic needs-and thus rights-are met is achievable only if the institutions of the state are strong and not prone to capture by vested interested. Following his presentation, Min Zhou, director of the UCLA Asia Pacific Center, professor of sociology and Asian American studies, and Walter & Shirley Wang Chair in U.S.-China Relations and Communications moderated a discussion with Nair, a regular speaker at global forums, including the World Economic Forum. The event was co-organized by the Asia Society Southern California and UCLA Asia Pacific Center and sponsored by the UCLA Anderson Center for Global Management.

x
Learn more...
Friday, March 1, 2019 1:00 - 6:00 PM, Korn Convocation Hall

2019 Latin American Business Conference: A ROAD MAP FOR LATIN AMERICA'S FUTURE

On Friday, March 1, prominent and influential leaders from both the private and public sectors, including UCLA Anderson alumni, gathered together in front of an audience of around 300 students, alumni, academics and members of the local business community in Korn Convocation Hall to address the opportunities and concerns of the region. In addition to sharing their experiences, insights and forecasts on the economic, political and social prospects for the region, they discussed the business and investment opportunities for Latin America and the region's important and influential role in the global economy. The conference was centered on actions necessary to develop and benefit from the opportunities that will allow the region to flourish and become a relevant and influential player on the world's stage.

Opening remarks were provided by Jose Gomez, a candidate of the full-time MBA Class of 2019 and co-president of the Latin American Business Association andAlfred E. Osborne, Jr., interim dean, professor and faculty director of UCLA Anderson Price Center for Entrepreneurship & Innovation. These were followed by a macro-economic overview of the region by Professor Sebastian Edwards, Henry Ford II Chair in international Management and faculty director of the Center for Global Management, an organizer and the lead sponsor of the conference. The keynote address was delivered by Sergio Fajardo, former Mayor of Medellín and former Governor of the State of Antioquia, Colombia which was followed by a moderated conversation with Sebastian Edwards. The conference focused on efforts underway to encourage new developments and advancements as Latin America prepares for a brighter future. Discussions examined the region's economic, trade, political and social prospects, with panels discussing the ways that the region must leverage its position in the world to foster sustainable growth and become a welcoming place for trade and investment, as well as an environment that encourages good governance and workforce development and education. 

Panelists included: Philip Behn, Senior Vice President of e-Commerce, Walmart de México y Centroamérica; Carlos Bremer,  chairman and CEO of Value Grupo Financiero; João Campos,  CEO pf  PepsiCo Foods Brazil; Agustín Caso Raphael, Mexico's deputy general auditor and professor of economics at ITAM; Eduardo Elejalde, founding partner of Latin America Enterprise Fund Managers (LAEFM) LLC and president of LAEFM Colombia Ltda.; Gerardo Grajales, chief transformation officer and executive vice president of Avianca Holdings S.A.; Juan M. Procaccini ('01), managing partner and former CEO of Argentina Investment and Trade Promotion Agency; Joana Monteiro, research coordinator in Rio de Janerio's  Prosecutor's Office and  former head of Rio de Janerio's Institute of Public Security;  Kevin Terraciano,  professor of History and director of UCLA Latin American Institute.

Discussions were moderated by: Sebastian Edwards; Gonzalo Freixes, adjunct professor of Accounting, Business Law, Taxation and International Business and associate dean of UCLA Anderson's Fully Employed and Executive MBA Programs; Felipe Cusnir ('13), CEO of Swell Capital Inc. and former director of International Trade & Investment with the Los Angeles Mayor's office; and Alfred E. Osborne, Jr. Before the conference, Sebastian Edwards and the Center for Global Management hosted a private luncheon for the speakers, moderators and student conference directors in the Dean's Conference Room. Following the conference, a networking event was held which provided wonderful opportunities for the audience and speakers to continue conversations. 

The event was organized by UCLA Anderson's Center for Global Management, UCLA Anderson's Latin American Business Association and UCLA's Latino Business Student Association, in collaboration with the Los Angeles Area Chamber of Commerce. Conference sponsors included City National Bank (bronze level) and the UCLA Latin American Institute. 

x
Learn more...
Tuesday, February 26, 2019, 6:30 PM - 9:00 PM, UCLA Faculty Center

Global Business and Policy Forum "Artificial Intelligence: Key Opportunities and Challenges"

Artificial intelligence will have a transformative societal impact in the coming years. While there is plenty that AI cannot do, it is perhaps the only technology in recent memory that, despite all the hype, will actually turn out to have been underhyped once its impacts are fully appreciated.  On Tuesday, February 26, the UCLA Anderson Center for Global Management and  UCLA School of Law's Lowell Milken Institute for Business Law and Policy hosted  John Villasenor, UCLA professor of public policy and management and member of the World Economic Forum's Global Agenda Council on Cybersecurity for a very engaging discussion on what AI actually is, why it has become such a focus of attention and investment, and the resulting opportunities and challenges in relation to ethics, geopolitics, the labor market, combating bias, and regulation. During his presentation, Villasenor also addressed the intersection of technology, policy, law and business and broader impacts of key technology trends.  Villasenor is a professor of electrical engineering, public policy, and management, and a visiting professor of law. He is also a nonresident senior fellow at the Brookings Institution and a visiting fellow at the Hoover Institution at Stanford. His work considers the broader impacts of key technology trends, including advances in digital communications, the increasing complexity of today's networks and systems, and the growth of AI. Over dinner, there were many interactive table conversations where specific questions were discussed among the students, including whether it is acceptable to use AI-based systems to make sentencing or parole recommendations? Relatedly, whether people impacted by those decisions have the right to know the details of the underlying algorithms? Students were also asked to comment on the best way to maximize the likelihood that, when faced with decisions with ethical implications, AI systems will make the "right" choice? While some people believe that new AI regulation is necessary. Others argue that new AI regulation would have few benefits and would also stifle innovation. Students were asked to discuss their thoughts on his too.  The discussion engaged around 70 students and faculty from the UCLA Anderson School of Management and the UCLA School of Law. The Global Business and Policy Forum is a collaborative partnership between UCLA Anderson's Center for Global Management and the UCLA School of Law's Lowell Milken Institute for Business Law and Policy.

x
Learn more...
Thursday, February 21, 2019, 12:00 PM, California Club, Los Angeles

Reducing Civilian Casualties in War Roundtable Discussion with Randall Bagwell, Director of International Humanitarian Law, American Red Cross

Some reports indicate that in recent conflicts 90% of the casualties have been civilians. During a Los Angeles World Affairs Council lunchtime roundtable discussion at the California Club on Thursday, February 26, Randall Bagwell, director of international humanitarian law at the Red Cross discussed the place of international humanitarian law (IHL) within the context of conflict and war, and how IHL leaders are trying to reduce civilian casualties. He addressed the work being done to provide greater safety to protected classes, including children, journalists, and asylum seekers and also discussed how IHL is responding to new warfare such as cyber attacks, armed drones, and robots.  Bagwell spoke about the rising numbers of civilians being harmed in current conflicts due to the non-international nature of many conflicts, such as the conflict between the U.S. and IS. Fighters are also not distinguishing themselves from civilians and remain in populated villages, endangering everyone around them. Most nations haven't ratified additional protocols surrounding these types of conflict, which "makes it increasingly difficult to determine which laws apply to these conflicts and leaves room for governments to take advantage of the gaps." Colonel (Retired) Randall Bagwell joined the American Red Cross after more than thirty years of service as a Judge Advocate General (JAG) Officer in the U.S. Army. As a legal advisor for the Army, Bagwell performed duties ranging from prosecuting and defending criminal cases to advising on administrative and regulatory matters. However, his specialty, and the majority of his assignments, were in International Humanitarian Law (IHL). He has also instructed on IHL with partner nations in over 20 countries. As a member of the LAWAC, the Center for Global Management supports attendance of UCLA Anderson students to LAWAC discussions and events.

x
Learn more...
Monday, February 11, 2019, 11:30 AM - 12:30 PM

Global Management Lecture Series "The Globotics Upheaval: Globalization, Robotics and the Future of Work" with Richard Baldwin, Professor of International Economics, Graduate Institute of International and Development Studies, Geneva

On Monday, February 11, Richard Baldwin, Professor of International Economics, Graduate Institute of International and Development Studies, Geneva and editor-in-chief, VoxEU.org, joined the Center for Global Management and Professor Sebastian Edwards, Henry Ford II Chair in International Management for a conversation and moderated discussion on his new book, which Lawrence Summers, former U.S. Treasury Secretary described as "the best book yet on the new economic era we are entering. Any worker, company or government who doesn't want to be left behind should read and consider his arguments." In his book, The Globotics Upheaval, published in February 2019, Richard Baldwin, one of the world's leading thinkers on globalization, argues that "globots" will build a better future, but will create explosive social challenges along the way. Baldwin address a packed classroom of UCLA Anderson MBA, Ph.D. students and faculty and talked about how digital technology is allowing "white-collar robots" to displace many service-sector workers and professionals while at the same time enabling "telemigration" where talented, low-cost workers sitting abroad displace domestic office workers. If displaced office workers join with already displaced factory workers, the result could be a destabilizing upheaval. To avoid this, Baldwin asserts that governments must use the tools they have to slow the pace and make the competition from globots seem fairer.  In his presentation, he concluded that "globotics" is coming faster than most think, in ways that few expect and that it will create a better world of work if the transition is managed. He suggested that mismatched speed is the main problem. Richard Baldwin is Professor of International Economics at the Graduate Institute, Geneva, founder and editor-in-chief of the policy portal VoxEU.org, and associate member of Nuffield College, University of Oxford. In addition to his research and teaching, he advises governments and international organizations around the world on globalization and trade policy issues. In 1990-91, he served as a senior staff economist for President George Bush's Council of Economic Advisors. The event was co-sponsored by the UCLA Burkle Center for International Relations

x
Learn more...
Saturday, February 9, 2019, 8:30 AM - 1:30 PM, Geffen Hall, David Geffen School of Medicine

The 23rd Annual Health Care Symposium Immigration and Healthcare: Status, Access and Bridging the Disparity

With over 12 million individuals nationwide and nearly 2.4 million within California, the undocumented immigrant population is an undeniable segment of our nation's makeup. Still, an undocumented immigrant's access to healthcare systems is limited and often nonexistent, leading to poorer outcomes and diminished population health. With a shifting political climate, society must begin to reckon with the impact of legislation on the health and outcomes of its most vulnerable populations. On Saturday, February 9, 2019, the 23rd Annual Health Care Symposium Immigration and Healthcare: Status, Access and Bridging the Disparity explored the relationship between immigration and the healthcare system, and addressed how the healthcare system can use social justice as a means to improve access to healthcare for immigrants in the United States. The Symposium that brought together around 100 students, physicians, administrators, public health leaders, and members of the local community in Geffen Hall at the UCLA David Geffen School of Medicine, helped to increase awareness about immigration as a public health issue and encourage discussion on the importance of working together to end barriers to health care access and towards finding solutions to the health care disparities. The annual Symposium has served for two decades as an educational and invaluable forum to core medical school curriculum and highlighted crucial yet diverse topics of great importance in modern health care.

This year's Symposium presented different perspectives on immigration ranging from legal to public policy to local community efforts. The opening plenary session, "Immigration Law and Policy in the Trump Administration: Immigrants at Risk?" was delivered by Hiroshi Motomura JD, Susan Westerberg Prager Distinguished Professor of Law, UCLA School of Law, an influential scholar and teacher of immigration and citizenship. The closing keynote, "Immigration, Health, and Social Justice" was delivered by Richard L. Seidman MD, MPH, Chief Medical Officer, L.A Care Health Plan who is responsible for developing and implementing strategies and initiatives to ensure quality health care delivery to the more than two million members - some of the most vulnerable in the county. Breakout sessions focused on "Fighting Persecution: The Role of the Physician in Immigration and Asylum" and "Linking State Policies to Immigrant Health." 

The Health Care Symposium is an annual conference organized by students at the UCLA David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA for their fellow students, the broader UCLA community, and the general public, with the intent of exploring a topic of importance to modern healthcare. The Symposium is an expression of interest and excitement on the part of medical students who believe that students of all levels can be valuable contributors to the conversations that are reshaping our healthcare system and, consequently, our health. The purpose of the Symposium is to involve UCLA students in these conversations, giving them the opportunity to learn from and interact with national leaders in healthcare and related fields. The UCLA Anderson Center for Global Management was a sponsor of the Symposium, together with various cross-campus units including UCLA Health, the Semel Institute for Neuroscience and Human Behavior, the Fielding School of Public Health and the UCLA International Institute, among others.

x
Learn more...
Thursday, February 7, 2019, Anderson Afternoon, North Terrace

Celebrating Lunar New Year at UCLA Anderson

To celebrate the Year of the Pig, promote familiarity with and understanding of the Asian culture, and to strengthen cross club collaboration, on Thursday, February 7, 2019, the Center for Global Management supported the Greater China Business Association (GCBA), Asian Management Student Association (AMSA) and Korean Business Student Association (KBSA) to celebrate the Lunar New Year. The Lunar New Year is one of the most important holidays in Greater China, Korea, and Southeast Asia. During Anderson Afternoon on the North Terrace, the three clubs took this opportunity to bring the UCLA Anderson community together to celebrate and promote cultural diversity at UCLA Anderson. More than 400 UCLA Anderson students, faculty and staff participated in the festivities. The North Terrace was transformed into a sea of red with Lunar New Year décor and authentic food from Greater China and Korea was served. To help the UCLA Anderson community better understand the traditions, the three clubs prepared a variety of celebratory games and activities, including learning Chinese calligraphy, reading Chinese puzzle, winning red envelope and playing mahjong, Korean Yut and Jegi games. The event was hosted by GCBA, AMSA, and KBSA, and supported by the CGM, Anderson Student Association and the Office of Diversity Initiatives and Community Relations.

x
Learn more...
Tuesday, February 5, 2019, Ackerman Union

Center for Global Management Mentor Program Gathering with Past and Present Mentees at Wolfgang Puck

On Tuesday, February 5, 2019, 2017-18 mentees shared experiences and networked with 2018-19 mentees at a dinner gathering at the Wolfgang Puck restaurant, Ackerman Union located in the heart of the UCLA campus. The CGM mentor program connects current full-time MBA, FEMBA, EMBA and UCLA-NUS EMBA students with members of the center's advisory board, a dedicated and actively engaged group of visionary global leaders spanning a variety of geographies and industries. The program provides students with a unique opportunity to connect and form meaningful relationships with board members, who offer valuable counsel and guidance on professional endeavors, living and working abroad, global business and life lessons. By playing a direct role in shaping the next generation of global leaders, board members contribute in the most meaningful ways. Mentees gain valuable guidance in academic and career direction, obtain advice and perspective, gain insights into industries and professions of interest, and learn about professional and personal development skills required to succeed. The program was established to augment knowledge and understanding among students interested in pursuing a career in international business and management across a variety of industries and disciplines, as well as living and working abroad upon graduation. During the 2018-19 academic year, four full-time MBA, three FEMBA and one UCLA-NUS EMBA students are participating as mentees in the sixth year of the program.

x
Learn more...
Friday, February 1, 2019 11:30 AM-1:00 PM, C-315, Entrepreneurs Hall, UCLA Anderson

China and Beyond – A Front Row Seat: Perspectives of an American Academic in Beijing” with Michael Powers, Zurich Insurance Group Professor of Finance at Tsinghua University’s School of Economics and Management

On Friday, February 1, 2019, UCLA welcomed to campus Michael Powers, the Zurich Insurance Group Professor of Finance at Tsinghua University’s School of Economics and Management. He discussed his experience as a guest business and economics commentator for China Radio International and shared his thoughts on the current "trade war." Powers also offered some broader perspectives on China's emergence as a world power, and the U.S. reaction as well as addressed both the country’s domestic as well as international priorities from an economic, political and security standpoint. Following his presentation, Min Zhou, director of the UCLA Asia Pacific Center and Walter and Shirley Wang Endowed Chair in U.S.-China Relations and Communications moderated a conversation. Powers also holds a joint appointment as Professor of Economics and Business at Tsinghua’s Schwarzman College. From 2012 to 2015, he served as chair of Tsinghua’s finance department – a unique assignment for a foreign academic in China. Powers is co-editor of The Political Economy of Chinese Finance (2016), and provides regular business and economics commentary for China Radio International’s Today and BizToday programs. The event was part of the UCLA Asia Pacific Center’s China and Beyond Forum that aims to highlight and understand emerging issues in the Asia Pacific region. The event was sponsored by the UCLA Asia Pacific Center, Center for Chinese Studies, the Center for Global Management and the Tsinghua University Alumni Association of Southern China.

x
Learn more...
Thursday, January 31 through Tuesday, February 19, 2019

UCLA Anderson 2019 International Film Festival

The Anderson International Film Festival is a celebration of the school's diversity through the screening of movies from many of the countries that UCLA Anderson students call home. Following the success of last year's inaugural festival, the 2019 festival was held at UCLA Anderson beginning January 31 with a screening every Monday and Tuesday through February 19. It engaged twelve UCLA Anderson professional and identity clubs. During the six days, twelve movies and documentaries were screened from the home countries of many UCLA Anderson students. The film festival included films from Argentina, China, Cambodia, Germany, Italy, India, Korea, Japan and the United States. Each screening was followed by a Q&A session facilitated by first and second year full-time MBA students from that particular country and leaders of the associated student club. These students led conversations around topics that the film addressed and issues that the film raised. Local cuisine from the country/region was also served. The festival raised awareness of the diverse backgrounds of the UCLA Anderson community. 

One example of a film that was screened included "Tampopo,"  sponsored by the Japan America Business Association (JABA).  Japanese filmmaker Juzo Itami wrote and directed in this live action film. The story is about a truck driver who stops at a small family-run noodle shop and decides to help its fledgling business. It is intertwined with various vignettes about the relationship of love and food. JABA felt this film was important to screen as the Japanese have a distinct appreciation of food and the film also addresses the connection with western culture too. Tatsuro Nakajima ('19) co-president of JABA, together with Takaaki Hirabayashi ('19) and Kevin Tente ('20), both members of JABA led the discussion to educate the audience on the Japanese food culture as well as how Japanese people view the western culture. 

Over 70 students from across UCLA Anderson's full-time and fully employed MBA programs attended the screenings with many students attending more than one screening. Many who attended felt they had gained a better understanding and appreciation of the country and culture as a result of attending the screening and participating in the conversation. The festival was presented by the UCLA Anderson Entertainment Management Association and was sponsored by the Center for Global Management, Diversity Office, Center for MEMES, International Business Association and the Anderson Student Association.

x
Learn more...
Thursday, January 31, 2019, 11:30 AM-12:30 PM, Korn Convocation Hall

Robertson Lecture Series on Global Business Leadership with Stephan Shakespeare, CEO and Co-Founder, YouGov on "What the World Thinks: Big Data Analytics and Its Impact on Business, the Public Sector and Global Public Opinion"

On Thursday, January 31, 2019, the Center for Global Management hosted Stephan Shakespeare, CEO and co-founder of YouGov, a global big data analytics company and pioneer in internet-based market research and polling, for a fireside chat with Interim Dean Al Osborne before an audience in Korn Convocation Hall. The conversation centered around big data analytics and its impact on business, the public sector and global public opinion.  Shakespeare discussed the company's innovation-led strategy and expansion into international markets. He explained how YouGov collects opinions from around the world and how companies, non-profits and the media look to YouGov to better understand what the world thinks about brands, politics and current affairs to drive their business decisions and identify growth opportunities. He also addressed the impact of big data analytics on business; advanced technology and how it can be used to predict elections and national sentiment; and blockchain and how it empowers users and enables more effective ad targeting as well as the broader implications of cyber threats.  Shakespeare also shared his thoughts on using data for public good to tackle global social issues and how emerging ways of measuring and sharing opinion will create new risks and opportunities for society and business. The conversation also touched on many other topics, including Brexit and data protection. A private luncheon followed in the executive dining where the discussions continued. Stephan Shakespeare co-founded YouGov in 2000. One of the pioneers of internet research, Shakespeare has been the driving force behind YouGov's innovation-led strategy. He was chair of the Data Strategy Board for the Department for Business, Innovation and Skills 2012-2013 and led the Shakespeare Review of Public Sector Information. He was also recently appointed as a commissioner for the Social Metrics Commission, an independent charity dedicated to helping UK policy makers and the public understand and take action to tackle poverty. Around 200 UCLA and UCLA Anderson students, alumni, faculty, staff as well as members of the Los Angeles World Affairs Council and the Los Angeles community gathered in Korn Convocation Hall for the event. Opening remarks were provided by Gerry Sims, MBA candidate from the Class of 2019 and executive vice president of the UCLA Anderson Tech Business Association. The event which was part of the CGM's Robertson Lecture Series on Global Business Leadership was organized by the CGM and supported by the UCLA Anderson Tech Business Association and the Master of Science in Business Analytics program, as well as the Los Angeles World Affairs Council. 

x
Learn more...
Tuesday, January 29, 2019, 5:00 PM - 6: 30 PM, Executive Dining Room

Global Networking Reception for Students & Faculty - Strengthening Global Intellectual and Social Connections between Faculty and Students

A key objective of the Center for Global Management is to help strengthen the intellectual and social connections between faculty and students interested in global management and international affairs. On January 29, 2019, prior to the opening of spring quarter course bidding, over 150 students, faculty and CGM partners gathered in the executive dining room for the center's annual networking reception. The reception provided an opportunity for UCLA Anderson students to learn about the global opportunities available at UCLA Anderson both on campus and abroad, including the opportunity to travel abroad with the CGM's global immersion and FEMBA and EMBA international exchange courses, make a global impact with the center's support for international field study projects, learn a language, specialize in global management, enroll in on-campus global management courses and participate in the CGM's programming. The event provided an opportunity for students to interact with faculty who teach global courses as well as faculty and Ph.D. students who have global research and teaching interests. First year students networked with students across degree programs who have traveled abroad, enrolled in global courses and engaged with the center's programming. The center's faculty and executive directors, Professor Sebastian Edwards and Lucy Allard provided welcome remarks and an overview of the CGM's programming and introduced faculty members to the students. The reception provided an opportunity for students currently enrolled in global courses and engaged with the center's programming, including those who have traveled abroad for global immersion courses and international field study primary research to network and share their experiences with others.

x
Learn more...
Saturday, January 26, 2019, 8:50 AM - 5:30 PM, Carnesale Commons at UCLA

The Los Angeles Global Health Conference, "Transcending Borders and Transforming Paradigms: Shaping a Future That Unites Us"

The fourth annual Los Angeles Global Health Conference, "Transcending Borders and Transforming Paradigms: Shaping a Future That Unites Us," took place at UCLA on Saturday, January 26. This annual global health conference hosted in Southern California brought together around 400 individuals from various disciplines across academia, NGOs, business, and the public sector to discuss the current status of world health, providing an interactive educational forum to address innovative ways to tackle health disparities-locally and globally. Home to individuals from more than 140 countries speaking 224 different languages, Los Angeles's rich cultural diversity makes it an ideal place to examine the current status of world health.Organized by UCLA David Geffen School of Medicine, Fielding School of Public Health, Undergraduate Departments, and USC Keck School of Medicine and affiliated schools, the conference aims to educate and connect with members of the UCLA, USC, CDU and Los Angeles communities about the varying disparities both in our backyards and around the world.

The 2019 conference brought together students, faculty, researchers and professionals across the greater Los Angeles area from various backgrounds to create a dialogue to inform and equip future global health leaders. Given the current global events, priority shifting is key to successfully address health disparities both in our backyard and abroad. The opening keynote address, "Women in Global Health Leadership: The Hard Facts while Debunking Some Myths" was delivered by Michele Barry, MD, FACP, FASTMH, professor of medicine and tropical diseases at Stanford University. She is also the director of the Center for Innovation in Global Health and senior associate dean for global health. As one of the co-founders of the Yale/Stanford Johnson and Johnson Global Health Scholar Award program, Barry has sent over 1500 physicians overseas to underserved areas to help strengthen health infrastructure in low resource settings. 

The closing keynote, "Global Health: Keep the Vision Alive" was delivered by Haile T. Debas, MD, FACS, internationally recognized for his contributions to academic medicine who is widely consulted on issues associated with global health whose career as a physician, researcher, professor, and academic leader spans over four decades in Canada and the United States. 

The day also included numerous breakout sessions with a diverse group of speakers around four specific tracks addressing topics including: immigration, displacement, and vulnerable populations; planetary health and disaster relief; innovation, change and priority setting; and health along the continuum. The Los Angeles Global Health Conference is a student-led project of the Global Health Interest Group at the David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA. The UCLA Anderson Center for Global Management was a silver sponsor of the event.

x
Learn more...
Wednesday, January 23, 2019, 4:30 PM - 6:00 PM, A-201 Collins Center, UCLA Anderson

"From Campus to Market: Technology Transfer in the United States and Israel" with Amir Naiberg, President and CEO, UCLA Technology Development Corporation

On Wednesday, January 23 in the late afternoon, students, faculty and members of the local community enjoyed a presentation and moderated discussion with Amir Naiberg, associate vice chancellor and president and CEO of UCLA Technology Development Corporation who shared insights from his experiences in Israel and compared the U.S. and Israel's two systems for turning university innovations into commercialized products. He compared the two countries in terms of entrepreneurial ecosystems, legal, cultural, and financial issues. Naiberg also provided insights from his experience working at the Weizmann Institute of Science's technology transfer company and serving in his current position at UCLA and addressed issues such as how do cutting-edge innovations make their way from university research labs into products sold by for-profit companies and how the path of technology transfer differs in the United States and "Start-Up Nation." Following his presentation, Yoram Cohen, faculty director of the Younes and Soraya Nazarian Center for Israeli Studies moderated the discussion. Amir Naiberg serves as Associate Vice Chancellor and President & CEO of UCLA Technology Development Corporation. The UCLA Technology Development Corporation, a non-profit technology company wholly-owned by UCLA, focuses on better protecting and optimizing the discoveries and inventions developed through UCLA research. Naiberg also leads the UCLA Technology Development Group, a campus wide resource that serves as a gateway to innovation, research and entrepreneurship at UCLA. Through this work, he works in concert with several on-campus incubators and accelerators to further advance innovation, entrepreneurship and research at UCLA. This event was sponsored by the Younes and Soraya Nazarian Center for Israeli Studies, the UCLA Anderson Center for Global Management, UCLA School of Law's International and Comparative Law Program and the Department of Near Eastern Languages and Cultures.

x
Learn more...
Wednesday, January 23, 2019, 11:30 AM - 12:30 PM, Dean's Conference Room

Lunch Series with Bart W. Édes, North American Representative of the Asian Development Bank on "Asian Economic Forecasts and Achieving Development Impact"

On Wednesday, January 23, the Center for Global Management hosted a luncheon with Bart W. Édes, North American Representative of the Asian Development Bank (ADB), an international development finance institution dedicated to reducing poverty in Asia and the Pacific.  The luncheon provided an opportunity for interested students from across the various MBA programs to enjoy an informal and interactive conversation and learn about economic forecasts for Asia in 2019 and how the Asian Development Bank achieves development impact - with examples from different countries. Édes addressed the impact of the U.S.-China trade conflict on Asia and the U.S., the region's massive infrastructure investment gap, implications of an aging Asia and promoting gender equality in the Asia Pacific region.  Édes, who has served as the Asian Development Bank's Representative in North America since October 2017, is responsible for mobilizing financing for ADB's developing member countries; sharing development knowledge and experience; establishing and deepening partnerships with public, private and nonprofit organizations in North America; and raising public awareness of ADB in Canada and the United States.  His previous experience at ADB, includes leading teams responsible for knowledge management, social development, gender equity, the social sectors, civil society engagement. Following the luncheon, Édes discussed career opportunities at the ADB with interested graduate students. The luncheon was organized by UCLA the Center for Global Management and supported by the Greater China Business Association and Asian Management Student Association.

x
Learn more...
Thursday, January 10, 2019, UCLA Anderson Executive Dining Room

Networking Reception with Students from the University of Sydney Business School’s EMBA and UCLA Anderson EMBA Programs

The Center for Global Management hosted around 20 students from the University of Sydney Business School’s Executive MBA program at UCLA Anderson from January 6-10 for a one-week global management seminar focused on “Finding Opportunity in Disruptive Technology.” The seminar provided participants with an opportunity to complete part of their studies at UCLA and gain valuable global experience and insights through focusing on the innovation and creativity that are such an integral part of the business community in Los Angeles and California, including current academic research and business application around topics such as artificial intelligence, machine learning and deep learning business management impacts as well as business model driven innovation and the proliferation of big data . During the week, students visited Southern California Edison and the Stubbs, Alderton & Markiles Preccelerator. On Thursday, January 10, the students enjoyed a networking reception in UCLA Anderson’s executive dining room, hosted by the CGM where they had an opportunity to meet and connect with first year students from UCLA Anderson’s Los Angeles-based EMBA program.

x
Learn more...