In elite skiing, a single misjudged risk can end a career. In international trade, it can jeopardise an entire business. At Coface’s 30th anniversary celebrations in Switzerland, Olympic gold medallist Dominique Gisin and Coface expert Wolfgang Mohr explored what these two worlds can learn from each other when it comes to managing risk.
To mark three decades of activity in Switzerland, Coface welcomed former professional skier and physics graduate Dominique Gisin to speak on risk management in alpine skiing. In his opening remarks, Christian Moins, Country Manager Switzerland of Coface, highlighted:
In both business and sport, resilience is a priceless commodity. Both fields can likely learn from each other when it comes to the contribution of risk management.
An analytical approach as the foundation of success
The Olympic downhill champion from Sochi 2014 primarily focused on how her successes were shaped and enabled by an analytical approach to risk. This became a crucial consideration for Gisin, whose career in professional sports was plagued by a series of injuries from a young age. Together with her team, she developed data-driven strategies for rehabilitation, training and competition. “Nobody else made it right to the very top after suffering such incidents”, she said, clearly placing her own success in the context of the rational analysis of risks and opportunities.
In the conversation, Dominique Gisin and Coface expert Wolfgang Mohr drew clear parallels between trade relations and skiing.
Sound data is also match-deciding for Coface. Only on this basis are valid company risk profiles created, allowing for a rapid response.
explained the Commercial Director of Coface Switzerland.
Expertise only unfolds its impact through trust
Both speakers also identified a trusting relationship with expert advisors as a key success factor. At the side of the elite athlete, for example, was psychologist Christian Marcolli, with whom she worked through the incapacitating effect of previous accidents at the starting gate. Mohr stressed that credit insurers and risk managers also fulfil an advisory role. Coface’s task is to reliably support Swiss companies, particularly in a complex environment.
According to the expert, this requires experience, domain knowledge and an understanding of local conditions. For Coface, he described the company’s global network of branches in 80 countries, with specialised professionals and local contacts, as a crucial advantage:
Coface combines global data with local expertise. In this way, we can support Swiss companies in navigating risks, protecting their activities and seizing opportunities for sustainable growth.
Whether in elite skiing or international trade, Dominique Gisin concluded, managing risk is never a solo effort:
Success depends on the ability to rely on expert advice, anticipate challenges at an early stage and make informed decisions under uncertainty.
