Two realities

Israel has become a “start-up nation” with a highly talented population who have been able to establish a unique ecosystem that fosters high-tech innovation. It is home to one of the highest numbers of start-ups and venture capital institutions per capita in the world and as a nation have been able to innovate under adverse conditions over the years. The Army is compulsory for men and women at the age of 18 with exception of Orthodox Jews and Arabs. Through their lives the reservists need to continue serving in the army. This helped Israelis to establish their networks and ultimately help them to innovate in business.

On the other side Palestinians are struggling to survive in a territory mainly controlled by Israel.  With less jobs opportunities, lower salaries and poorer working conditions, 50% of the population is unemployed. Nevertheless, Palestinians are resilient, dedicated and eager to work, and it is why many choose and want to work in Israel. The lower cost of labour, availability of talent, previous experience and exposure to Israeli tech and science are the key ingredients and competitive advantage that Palestine offers to national and foreign companies that choose to invest there.

During the trip we had a pleasure of meeting the inspiring Professor of political sciences and the author of a book on conflict and peace-making in the Middle East, Khalil Shikaki in Ramallah. It was inspiring and emotional to learn that there are many versions of this conflict in the region, but there is a need to achieve and compromise on a solution for peace.

Looking back, I reflect on some key takeaways:

Establishing effective networks and ecosystems is important for fostering innovation in a country or region. Some of the innovation in global organisations and industries have started from ideas and start-ups in Israel.

However the challenge isn't only about doing business in a region with many complex socio-political influences, but also about the importance of inclusion and diversity in society, at work and in the education system. In the long run, the region needs to reflect on the differences in society concerning equal opportunities and harmonise the education system in order to maintain and further promote this unique ecosystem that fosters high-tech innovation.

Overall we cannot do successful international businesses without understanding the cultural and legal challenges, the economy, religion, politics, landscape of competitors and the main stakeholders - all of which can influence business.

This extraordinary international elective will broaden your horizons and challenges your views on modern business, innovation, the importance of ecosystems, human resources, politics, history and religion.

About the author

My name is Pedro Franco and I'm originally from Portugal. I'm currently doing an Executive MBA at Bayes after completing my PhD studies on Chemoinformatics at the University of Sheffield.

After my PhD, Masters and Bachelors in different areas of science and art (Pharmacy, Organic Chemistry, Music and Chemoinformatics) and having worked many years in the pharmaceutical industry and public sector, I felt the need to acquire additional knowledge in the area of business in order to help me growing into my next step of my career as a senior leader, or even considering to set up my own pharmaceutical consultancy.

At the moment, I am working at Merck KGaA in the Regulatory & Scientific Policy department with the main goal of developing and influencing future R&D policies in Europe, South America and China through networking with health authorities and working in close collaboration with trade associations.