Guy Lakan is not only a PhD student at the Hebrew University Business School, but also a member of our outstanding faculty. After serving for several years as the head of the economic department at the Israel Capital Market, Insurance and Saving Authority (CMISA), Guy has rejoined the academic world, describing it as a “natural step” to return to his research.
--Tell us a bit about yourself professionally and academically
My fascination with finance really began when I was working for CMISA. While I am already an economist and CPA – I graduated from Hebrew University with an MA in Economics and Accounting – it was my direct encounter with institutional investors that led me to prepare a research proposal and subsequently join the doctoral program. Alongside the program, I am also teaching an MBA course focused especially on institutional investors which are entities that manage long-term savings for individuals through investment. Think of pensions, for example, which have been becoming legally required in many countries over the last 20 years. Now that employers are obligated by law to contribute to their employees’ pensions, global investment institutions have developed significantly.
--Can you explain more about the course?
The course is called “Institutional Investors and Capital Markets” and I designed it personally. Despite it being new to the course list, I had nearly eighty students which emphasizes the relevance of understanding the intricacies of institutional investment here in Israel and also abroad. In the course, I teach the students how to analyze investment trends across various sectors which are ever-evolving. A key part of the course is also bringing a guest lecturer from one of Israel’s largest private equities firms to speak with the students.
--What is your teaching philosophy?
I have two goals in my course. First, there is the professional aspect. I aim to give them the knowledge to understand the effect of institutional investors on the economy, and also to provide them with the ability to face professional challenges. Second, there is the mentoring element: I care about my students and I want them to excel in their careers. I aid them with networking and share relevant job vacancies. It’s crucial for me that they feel I am approachable and there to help.
--What advice do you have for your students?
Your most valuable resource is your peers. Stay connected to each other and create networks out of this experience. Professional training and skills are incredible and indispensable, but networking is crucial and this is an incredible opportunity to build long-lasting personal and professional connections.