Newsletter May 2021
Nice to Meet You - Lizanne Richle
What were you doing before you joined Euresearch? I don't have the classic research background you might expect. I studied political science at the University of Pretoria and then went to work for President Nelson Mandela from 1994-1999. That was an incredibly exciting and interesting time and I learnt many life lessons. After his time in office, I wanted a change and moved to corporate investment and client relationship management at a South African bank. This was followed by a job at the Deutsche Bank in Frankfurt. Then love brought me to Bern, where I feel very much at home.
How do all these experiences help you in your current position? As a Euresearch Company Advisor, my own professional experience in the private sector helps enormously! Also, South Africa has 11 official languages, which has equipped me to understand cultural nuances. You might be surprised but this plays an important role in research. I want my clients to succeed and there is nothing more satisfying than when the companies I support and the people in them move forward.
When you fly home to South Africa, what do you look forward to the most? My family, of course, but I associate family with good food too. Älplermagronen and Käsefondue are great – don't get me wrong – but because of its cultural diversity, South Africa is known for its fusion food. A simple salad is never simple! My favourite is caramelised pear and walnut salad. Doesn't that sound amazing?
Facts & Figures:
Euresearch has Company Advisors for all the regions in Switzerland. These people provide dedicated support for businesses of all sizes including industry.
Euresearch services: Company Advisors help identify suitable funding opportunities in the EU Framework Programmes, explain eligibility and financial rules, and facilitate the search for project partners. They also provide assistance during proposal preparation and submission, as well as during the project.
Leonie Troxler, Interview
Alexandra Rosakis, Illustration
