“The University of Bern has given me opportunities to grow.”

Interview with Noemi Torres, Team Lead, Financial Accounting

Since when have you worked for the University of Bern, and in which capacity?  
I assumed the position of Team Lead, Financial Accounting, in March 2024. However, I have been at the university for significantly longer than that.

What has your career path been like at the university?
I began with a Vocational Baccalaureate internship at the Farm Animal Clinic in the Animal Hospital and gained first work experience there. Following that, I spent a year working in the private sector. After spending some time abroad, I worked for the university again for several years – including in HR administration. During that time, I completed my Advanced Federal Diploma of Higher Education in Business Administration. I always wanted to lead a team, and the university afforded me that opportunity. I was able to take on a leadership position at the Institute for Infectious Diseases, and to gain valuable experience in administration, finance/controlling, HR, procurement and even in logistics. Since 2024, I have been leading a financial accounting team – a very interesting and pivotal role.

What makes your work particularly rewarding for you?
The immense diversity. My work involves being in contact with many of the university’s approximately 180 institutes, as well as with various departments and external partners, among them the canton of Bern and other universities. And then there’s the interacting with people from many different cultures. The vast diversity of tasks and professional interactions makes my job at the university deeply rewarding for me.  

How have you experienced the work culture at the University of Bern so far?
I appreciate the freedoms that we have in shaping our daily work. Of course, we have clear goals and structures, but we are free to work and manage our own tasks. That’s something I value greatly.

Which statement about the University of Bern as an employer resonates most with you?
Without a doubt: The University of Bern is diverse. This diversity is something I experience every day – in the tasks I perform, the interfaces and the people I work with.  

Have there been moments when the University of Bern has been particularly supportive of you?   
Yes, there have been many. What particularly stands out for me is when after my further education to become a business manager I was given the chance to step into a leadership position, despite having very little experience in that role at the time. This level of trust meant a lot to me and empowered me to grow. I have also benefitted from being able to attend various continuing education programs, including coaching and numerous other courses. The university truly supports staff development, and that’s a major plus.