MILE Alumni Profiles: Martin Baumgartner

Tell us about the work you are currently doing?

I am currently working at the Swiss State Secretariat for Economic Affairs where I deal with free trade agreements. We negotiate new agreements and update existing ones. Other than negotiating with free trade partners, one of our main tasks is to handle the domestic political work in order to ratify the agreements.

What did you do before the MILE, and what was your career path after you graduated?

Before MILE, I went to law school and then did a few internships in different parts of the world. After graduating from MILE, I joined the Swiss Mission to the WTO in Geneva, where I was involved in agricultural and NAMA negotiations among other issues. Afterwards, I was posted to the Swiss Embassy in Washington, DC, where I was in charge of trade policy for four and a half years. Upon my return to Switzerland, I took up my current position at the Swiss State Secretariat for Economic Affairs in Bern, not too far away from the WTI.

How do you think the MILE helped you in your career?

The MILE program has provided me with a solid foundation in international trade law and economics and helped me start building my professional network. Without it, I could not have pursued my career in international trade.

Any advice for current students?

Take advantage of the experience and knowledge of the teaching staff and the vast network of the WTI. Study hard but also have fun.