Introducing Cristián Valck: A Rising Star from Georgetown University’s MBA Class of 2026!

“I’m from Santiago, Chile, and I have over six years in CPG marketing. I’m passionate about my work, love rugby, cooking, and traveling.”

Hometown: Santiago, Chile

Fun Fact: At 14, I dreamed of being a soccer star and even tried out for the biggest clubs in Chile. That didn’t pan out, but it taught me a lot about resilience!

Education:

Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Bachelor’s in Economic and Administrative Sciences.

Current Role: Assistant Marketing Manager at Coca-Cola Andina, the third-largest bottler of Coca-Cola in Latin America.

Why Washington, DC? Washington, D.C., is filled with history and politics. It opens doors to amazing career opportunities and lets me connect with diverse experts. Plus, living here is a cultural treat, with plenty of museums and events. Being part of Georgetown offers an incredible community.

Georgetown McDonough’s MBA: The Global Business Experience is a highlight for me. This program allows hands-on consulting in different countries, which aligns with my goals. Georgetown inspires a curious mindset, preparing us for real-world challenges. The value of cura personalis emphasizes caring for one another as individuals, which is very important to me.

Activities I’m Excited About: I can’t wait to join the Marketing Association and the Latin American Business Association. They’ll help me build valuable networks and friendships. Plus, activities at the Baratta Center for Global Business will deepen my understanding of how Latin American companies can thrive globally.

Global Mindset in Business: Working across South America taught me the effectiveness of a global perspective. For instance, at Coca-Cola Andina, we introduced flavored water in refillable bottles. With no local precedent, we learned from our successful Argentine subsidiaries. Their insights guided us through challenges and helped us tailor our approach to local tastes.

Realizing Georgetown was the Right Fit: My first visit to campus in March 2020 left a lasting impression. The interview process was refreshingly different, with thought-provoking questions that mirrored my interests. It was then I felt Georgetown McDonough was where I belonged.

Career Highlight: My proudest achievement was gaining national leadership in the Plain Waters category at Coca-Cola Andina. This had been a tough, seasonal market, previously dominated by competitors. By strategically using our product range and enhancing customer loyalty, we not only gained market share but also saw $19.3 million in revenue with a 27% growth rate.

Looking Ahead: In two years, I want my MBA experience to foster both personal and professional growth. I aim to sharpen my leadership skills and develop a strong global perspective. Building connections with peers and industry professionals will help me navigate career transitions, whether into consulting, banking, clean tech, or advancing in CPG.

Engaging in these opportunities will prepare me for a successful future in the industry.

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