This post was written in March 2012 by Amy Snyder, a second year Duke MBA and CASE Fellow. Amy reflects on a recent visit from Jorge Becerra, Senior Partner and Managing Director in BCG’s Santiago office. Jorge is the regional leader of BCG’s Community and Economic Development work in the Americas and Head of BCG’s Financial Institutions and Organization practices. Jorge also serves on the Global Advisory Board of Endeavor.
CASE recently had the pleasure of welcoming Jorge Becerra, a Latin American leader in the Boston Consulting Group’s Community and Economic Development practice. In an evening presentation at Fuqua, Jorge enlightened current students about the firm’s commitment to social impact.
Jorge outlined 3 objectives in BCG’s social impact work:
- to contribute to society,
- attract and develop BCG staff, and
- strengthen BCG’s network and reputation.
Some of the firm’s groundbreaking social impact partnerships – which include work with organizations like Save the Children, the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation and the World Food Program – focus on addressing society’s most disadvantaged and disenfranchised. Others – like BCG’s partnership with Endeavor – provide consulting services to high-impact entrepreneurs that will create wealth and jobs in emerging markets across the globe. Through these regional and worldwide initiatives, BCG strengthens the firm, its people and the countries and communities in which it operates.
Jorge fielded questions from many Latin American students in the audience and addressed the unique challenges facing Latin American entrepreneurs, from registration regulations to bankruptcy proceedings. Jorge explained that BCG strives to unite the academic, government and business communities to address these key problems.
As Jorge recounted his own career path and perspective, his passion and commitment to social impact was palpable. The discussion was an inspiration – as well as a challenge and call to action – to MBAs to use their skills and resources to contribute to social change.
Like many of my classmates, I came to Fuqua with the objective of not only developing my business skills but also finding a way to make a positive impact on the world. Tonight’s discussion with Jorge Becerra reaffirmed my excitement to join BCG after graduation – a company clearly aligned with my values and a committed leader in the social sector.