ESSEC Alumni in Austria: “The standard of living is outstanding here”

Anna Kruk-Michot (EXEC MBA 22), President of our Austria Chapter, tells us more about our local alumni community – and the services she provides them. 

ESSEC Alumni: What are the profiles and backgrounds of our alumni in Austria? 

Anna Kruk-Michot: Most have a background in business, with specializations in marketing, finance, communication, and consulting. Some work in data science. Their roles vary from project managers to CFOs and Heads. International profiles predominate. The majority lives in Vienna. Linz, a more industrial city, comes in second.

EA: What opportunities are there in Austria for our alumni? 

A. Kruk-Michot: Austria is a politically and economically stable country with a strategic location in the heart of Europe. Hence, many opportunities arise for our graduates here, all the more since the ESSEC brand is well-known thanks to our school’s exchange program with Vienna University of Economics and Business (WU) especially. 

EA: What may strike a foreigner when discovering Austria?

A. Kruk-Michot: The standard of living in Austria and Vienna is, in my opinion, what stands out the most. Vienna has excellent water (straight from the Alps), clean air, safe and clean streets and infrastructures, affordable and dependable public transport, and convenient access to the neighboring mountains. Also, to the best of my knowledge, the local French school has a decent reputation, so graduates can send their kids there. Last but not least, many international restaurants and French bakeries have been opening in the recent years!

EA: What advice do you have for our alumni moving in your country?

A. Kruk-Michot: If you do not speak German, learn it. Many jobs require its knowledge and it speeds up the integration.

EA: What are the offer and services of ESSEC Alumni’s Austria Chapter? 

A. Kruk-Michot: We organize many events in Vienna, such as Get-Togethers, networking cocktails with other French Grandes Écoles’ local alumni groups, or visit to the Christmas market. In 2024, the plan is to have regular dinners every 6 weeks. We want to build up our relationships. 

EA: Who are the members of your team? Do you need more volunteers to get involved? 

A. Kruk-Michot: Pauline Duffner (E18) is also part of the team. We would love for additional volunteers to join and help us expand our offer by connecting with neighboring ESSEC Alumni chapters, advertising local job opportunities and/or supporting those who plan to move or relocate to Austria. 

Interview by Louis Armengaud Wurmser (E10), Content Manager at ESSEC Alumni 

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