Students from HR Master programs compare new work methods: the exchange experience between BBS and IAE Paris Sorbonne

14 April 2023

From April 3 to April 6, students from the HR & Organization Master program at Bologna Business School welcomed their colleagues from IAE Paris Sorbonne.

The event provided a significant opportunity to engage, learn, and share experiences on innovation in the world of work, amplifying the opportunities for international networking, a vital aspect for future managers in the sector.

The first day was dedicated to exploring the city of Bologna, with a guided walk to discover the local history, art, and culture. The group then moved to Villa Guastavillani, where they attended a team-building activity entitled: “Thinking agile in teams” with Claudia Manca and Ludovico Bullini Orlandi, Scientific Co-Directors of the BBS Master’s Program in HR & Organization.

The second day focused on delving deeper into “New Agile Work Methods” with a simulation-led lecture by Giulio Carbone, Associate Partner at McKinsey. Following this, the participants worked on a case study as part of an exciting HR-thon, once again under the guidance of Claudia Manca. The day concluded with a visit to the Bologna Airport Company.

The third day was dedicated to company visits. The group moved to AEFFE S.p.a, where they had the opportunity to learn about the company and engage with its representatives. Later, at Villa Guastavillani, Stefano Cozzi, Senior HR Business Partner at ING Bank, presented on “Agile and New Ways of Working”.

On the fourth and final day, the group reconvened at Villa Guastavillani to work on the case study and present their findings. Monika Fattorello, HR Service Leader at W.L. Gore, provided the closing remarks on “Agile and New Ways of Working: a perspective from W.L. Gore”. 

The day concluded with a farewell dinner at the CIM – La Taverna del Castoro restaurant, where the HR-thon winning team was also awarded. The event provided a unique opportunity for BBS and IAE Paris Sorbonne students to deepen their theoretical knowledge of new agile work methods, engage with industry experts, and test their skills through company visits and case studies. The faculty and professionals involved led the students on an exciting and interactive learning journey, creating new connections and relationships, enriching the participants’ educational experiences and opening up new prospects for their future, as explained by the Master’s Scientific Co-Directors, Claudia Manca and Ludovico Bullini Orlandi: “In this second edition, the international exchange with the IAE – Sorbonne Business School proved to be a significant experience for the students of the BBS Master’s in HR & Organization. During the intensive week of activities, participants gained knowledge about agile organizations and new ways of working, collaborating with colleagues to develop their interaction and cooperation skills in multicultural groups. They participated in various activities, including team building, agile team simulations and an HR-thon, an intensive case study on flexible working. In addition, they visited important local companies and heard testimonies from experienced HR managers on the topics chosen for this international exchange. We are already preparing for the second phase of the exchange, during which our students will go to IAE – Sorbonne Business School in Paris. This experience will also be challenging but highly meaningful in learning, thanks to the opportunities offered by IAE faculty and the companies that will be visited.”