Lively discussion at College Tour in Rotterdam
Together with the Financial Study Association Rotterdam, we organized the College Tour at Erasmus University on January 24. In a packed auditorium, our host Sander Heijne spoke with Ronald Wuijster, CEO of APG Asset Management, and Erik van Houwelingen, CEO of Kempen Capital Management.
Personal stories
Both Ronald and Erik took the students through their paths from study choices to current careers, with Ronald also reminiscing about his own time at this university.
Sander asked the gentlemen extensive questions on various topics, and the students actively followed up with their questions. What does the world of asset management actually look like? What are the differences between asset managers and hedge fund managers? But also, how do Ronald and Erik make policy choices and what safe havens are there in today's investment world.
How to get started
And then how do you get into this world. What does a student need to have to get started? Along came characteristics such as "curious", "entrepreneurial", "team player" and "analytical". The gentlemen indicated that in the Netherlands - just as abroad - people are increasingly looking 'through the resume'. Skills and commitment are rapidly becoming more important.
Erik added that Kempen has hired 150 new employees directly after their graduation in 2023, for example. The curiosity and drive in this regard is also further stimulated at Kempen by the periodic pitching contest. An internal event that Erik always looks forward to and admiringly judges the ideas of the employees. Ronald's tip was to keep an open mind when you start your career. Don't choose too rigidly and especially don't get stuck in a job if it doesn't feel right.
New developments
Machine-based decisions and AI are rapidly becoming important in our world. Have APG and Kempen already been able to give this a permanent place in their processes? The importance of this is certainly growing, both gentlemen indicated. Human judgment is still the core, though. How this develops further is in any case a point of attention for everyone.
One-on-one conversation during networking drinks
At the end of the discussion the students could continue their 1-on-1 conversation with Erik, Ronald, and others from the profession during the convivial reception. All attendees were very satisfied with the event and the next editions are already planned.
Take a look at the photo galleries
Would you like to enjoy the atmosphere one more time? Luckily, we still have the photos! If you would like a photo removed from the website, please contact us by sending an email to Marlon Jansen, manager public affairs & communications.
Learn more
It was a successful event for DUFAS as well as the University and the students and we look forward to the next editions. More information about the College Tour or curious about career opportunities within the asset management industry? Be sure to take a look around this website.
