Professional Guide

Diversified Industries

These are the main subsectors within Diversified Industries for you to explore in greater depth. For more information on ideal candidates, opportunities at IE, the application and recruitment process, and additional resources, please return to the main Diversified Industries Guide.

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Industry

Sectors and Sub-Sectors of the Industrial World

The industrial world is very broad, but we can identify and subdivide it into 5 main areas, each one of them with different sub-sectors:

  1. Energy
  2. Transport
  3. Aerospace
  4. Manufacturing & Industrial Products
  5. Commodity Trading

Generally speaking, within this macro sector we can include all the B2B companies that are producing a specific product.

The opportunities to work in industrial companies are vast, as inside them there are different departments and specialties you can choose.

Let's dig more into it!

1. ENERGY

The Energy Sector is very extensive and includes a complex and inter- related network of companies directly and indirectly involved in the production, distribution and supply of energy.

Companies in this field can be classified in two main categories, based on how the energy is sourced:

NON-RENEWABLE COMPANIES

  • Petroleum and oil products
  • Natural gas
  • Gasoline
  • Diesel fuel
  • Heating oil
  • Nuclear

RENEWABLE COMPANIES

  • Hydropower
  • Biofuels such as Ethanol
  • Wind power
  • Solar power

As a third category inside this sector we can include also another one, named Utilities, which includes all the companies that provide basic amenities such as water, sewage services, electricity, dams, and natural gas.

Robust opportunities are expected in all branches of the energy industry, as new technology improves alternative energy options and makes traditional options easier and cleaner to produce. These developments will feed demand for workers with the skills and ability to remain on the industry forefront.

Especially Clean Energy has gained more and more attention over the last few years and many investors believe that it will play an important role in the future, especially with the growing demand for Electric Cars.

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2. TRANSPORT

The Transportation Sector includes companies that provide services to move people or goods, as well as transportation infrastructure:

  • Automotive
  • Airlines
  • Logistics and transportation infrastructure
    • Marine transportation
    • Rail transportation
    • Air transportation
    • Road transportation

The Automotive Industry constitutes one of the most important market sectors. It is one of the largest in terms of revenue with mass production and mass consumption, becoming a vital element in the economy of the industrialized countries (motor vehicle production and sales are one of the major indexes of the state of the economy in those countries).

Digitization, increasing automation, and new business models have revolutionized our worlds, including the automotive industry. These forces are giving rise to four disruptive technology-driven trends in the automotive sector:

  • Diverse Mobility
  • Autonomous Driving
  • Electrification
  • Connectivity

STUDENTS´ EXPERIENCE

Jade Bez at Toyota, Brussels
Originally from Switzerland, Jade currently works as a supply chain and operations specialist at Toyota in Brussels, where she enjoys the interactive, constantly changing nature of the role. Crisis management is one topic which especially interests her—and she’s fast developing expertise in this area.

Studying the Bachelor in International Relations at IE University provided Jade with skills she puts into action every day in her role, as well as inspiring her to reach her goals and constantly improve herself. Outside work, she relaxes by playing volleyball and riding horses. Discover more about Jade’s life and career.

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3. AEROSPACE

The Aerospace Industry is related to the research, development and manufacturing of flight vehicles, including among others aircrafts, missiles, rockets and spacecrafts, but also uncrewed aerial vehicles (UAVs) or unpower gliders and sailplanes, for example.

We include in this sector also the companies involved in the development of flight-vehicle subsystems such as propulsion and avionics (avation electronics), as well as support systems for testing, operation and maintenance of the flight vehicles.

One major group of ground-based support products comprises simulation devices—systems used for training aircraft and spacecraft crews and for research-and-development processes.

The aerospace industry is characterized by a relatively small number of large firms and numerous international partnerships at every level. In terms of sales, military aircraft have the largest market share, followed by space systems and civil aircraft.

The industry’s customers range from private individuals to large corporations and commercial airlines, telecommunications companies, and government agencies.

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4. MANUFACTURING & CHEMICALS PRODUCTS

With the term Manufacturing, we refer to a very wide range of Companies involved in the fabrication, processing or transformation of materials from commodities, substances or components into finished products that can be sold in the marketplace (mainly as B2B commerce).

Manufacturing plays a huge role in modern society, as everything from knitting textiles to oil extraction to steel production falls within this sector of business.

Among the main categories we find:

  • Chemical
  • Electronic and Electrical Equipment
  • Fabricated Metal
  • Food Manufacturing
  • Furniture and Fixtures
  • Industrial and Commercial Machinery
  • Leather
  • Lumber and Wood
  • Measuring, Analyzing and Controlling Instrument
  • Paper
  • Primary Metal 
  • Rubber and Miscellaneous Plastic
  • Stone, Clay, Glass, and Concrete
  • Textile (B2B)
  • Tobacco
  • Transportation Equipment
  • Miscellaneous Manufacturing

Manufacturing industries also spur investments and encourage the building of infrastructure, and are deeply entangled in the world economy. There are few areas of the economy that manufacturing industries don’t touch.

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5. COMMODITY TRADING

Commodity trading companies are businesses that buy, sell, and move raw materials (also known as commodities) around the world. These commodities can include:

  • Energy: oil, natural gas
  • Metals: gold, copper, aluminum
  • Agricultural products: wheat, coffee, sugar, cocoa
  • Others: timber, water, etc.

They don’t just trade the physical goods—they also work with financial contracts (like futures and derivatives) to speculate, hedge risks, or lock in prices.

WHAT DO THESE COMPANIES DO?

  • Buy raw materials from producers (miners, farmers, oil companies).
  • Sell to buyers like factories, governments, retailers, refineries.
  • Manage logistics such as shipping, warehousing, trucking, etc.
  • Trade based on price changes: using data to buy low and sell high.
  • Hedge risks, for example, if prices are expected to fall, they use contracts to protect themselves.

See Commodity Trading Companies by Hubs and with Graduate Programs.

MAIN PLAYERS OF EACH SUB-SECTOR OF THE INDUSTRIAL WORLD

Major Industrial Hubs: China, USA, Japan, Germany

Energy - Oil & Gas, Renewables, Utilities

Transport - Automotive, Airlines, Logistics and Transportation Infrastructure.

Aerospace

Industrial Products (Manufacturing and Chemicals)

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IEU STUDENTS IN INDUSTRY

Some companies our students have interned/worked after graduation

INDUSTRY TRENDS

  • Innovation & Digitalization
  • Sustainability
  • Alternative Energy
  • Shared Mobility
  • Electric Vehicles
  • Autonomous Driving
  • Connectivity
  • Space Exploration

EXAMPLES OF GRADUATE PROGRAMS AND INTERNSHIP OPPORTUNITIES

STUDENTS´ EXPERIENCE

Are you thinking about working in the Energy field? Learn about the journey of IEU graduates:

  • Gloria Spalek at Hilti Group, Paris
    This Madrid native studied the Dual Degree in Business Administration + Laws at IE University and now works for The Hilti Group in Paris. Gloria joined the Swiss-based construction giant’s Global Outperformer Program to sharpen the skills she needs for a dynamic, international career in leadership and management. There, she works with colleagues across a variety of departments worldwide to build a complete picture of how business operates at the highest levels. Thanks to her time at IE University, Gloria developed the confidence to express herself and go after her goals—skills which continue to help her today in her professional life. For Gloria, success means waking up every day to do something you enjoy, surrounded by inspiring people. Discover more about her life and career.

Healthcare & Pharma

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Type of Pharma Companies

Pharma Companies Structure

Industry Trends

STUDENTS´ EXPERIENCE

Navigating the Pharma Landscape: A Graduate’s Experience at RocheBBA Graduate Luis Perez-Goicoechea Lemaigre Dubreuil is working as a Finance Enterprise Partner Trainee at Roche as part of their “Make Your Mark” Program. He told us about his experience, how he heard about this offer, and how he prepared for the selection process. He also gives advice to fellow IE University students to encourage them to work on their career path as soon as possible with Talent & Careers. Read more.

Hospitality & Tourism

The hospitality industry includes the hotel and motel, or lodging, trade. As defined by the International Council on Hotel, Restaurant, and Institutional Education, it also includes food services, recreation services, and tourism. The hospitality industry provides accommodations, meals, and personal services for both traveling public and permanent residents.

The students interested in the hospitality and tourism industry can pursue various roles that require business acumen and industry knowledge. Here are some hospitality and tourism jobs suitable for business-related students.

  • View Job Positions

    1. Hotel Sales and Marketing Manager: Develops and implements sales and marketing strategies to attract guests, increase occupancy rates, and drive revenue for a hotel or resort.
    2. Revenue Manager: Analyzes market trends, sets pricing strategies, and manages inventory to maximize revenue and profitability for hotels, airlines, or other tourism-related businesses.
    3. Tourism Development Officer: Works in government or tourism organizations to promote and develop tourism in a specific region or destination, focusing on strategies to attract visitors and generate economic growth.
    4. Event Planner/Coordinator: Organizes and manages corporate events, conferences, or trade shows, including budgeting, vendor management, and logistics.
    5. Destination Marketing Manager: Develops and executes marketing campaigns to promote a specific travel destination, working with tourism boards, hotels, airlines, and other partners to attract visitors.
    6. Travel Agency Manager: Oversees the operations of a travel agency, including sales, customer service, vendor relationships, and business development.
    7. Resort Operations Manager: Manages the day-to-day operations of a resort, including guest services, food and beverage, housekeeping, and facilities management.
    8. Hospitality Consultant: Provides expertise and advice to hospitality businesses on areas such as operations, marketing, financial management, and strategic planning.
    9. Tour Operator Manager: Manages a tour operator company, designing and promoting tour packages, coordinating logistics, and ensuring customer satisfaction.
    10. Hospitality Financial Analyst: Analyzes financial data, prepares budgets, forecasts revenue and expenses, and provides financial insights and recommendations for hospitality businesses.
    11. Hotel Asset Manager: Oversees the financial performance and value of hotel properties on behalf of owners or investors, ensuring optimal returns on investment.
    12. Restaurant Franchise Manager: Manages the operations and expansion of restaurant franchises, including financial performance, operational standards, and franchisee support.

These positions combine business skills with a deep understanding of the hospitality and tourism industry. Business students can leverage their knowledge in areas such as marketing, finance, operations, and strategy to excel in these roles.

MAIN HOTEL CHAINS IN EUROPE

In Europe, there are numerous hotels that offer excellent employment opportunities. Here are some well-regarded hotel chains and iconic properties in Europe where many individuals aspire to work with the links for their career webpage:

  • View Main Hotel Chains in Europe

    1. Marriott International: With a significant presence in Europe, Marriott International offers a wide range of brands, including Marriott Hotels, JW Marriott, The Ritz-Carlton, Sheraton, and Renaissance. Some notable properties include The Ritz-Carlton, Berlin and JW Marriott Venice Resort & Spa.
    2. Hilton Worldwide: Hilton operates numerous hotels across Europe under brands such as Hilton Hotels & Resorts, Conrad Hotels & Resorts, and DoubleTree by Hilton. Iconic properties include Hilton London Bankside and Conrad Dublin.
    3. InterContinental Hotels Group (IHG): IHG has a strong presence in Europe with brands like InterContinental, Crowne Plaza, Holiday Inn, and Hotel Indigo. Properties like InterContinental Paris - Le Grand and Crowne Plaza London - The City are well-known.
    4. Accor: As a major player in the European hotel industry, Accor manages brands like Sofitel, Novotel, Mercure, Ibis, and Fairmont. Properties such as Sofitel London St James and Novotel Amsterdam City are notable.
    5. Radisson Hotel Group: Radisson Hotel Group operates hotels across Europe, including Radisson Blu, Radisson Collection, and Park Inn by Radisson. Iconic properties include Radisson Blu Royal Hotel, Copenhagen and Radisson Blu Edwardian, Manchester.
    6. Four Seasons Hotels and Resorts: Known for their luxury and impeccable service, Four Seasons has properties in various European cities. Notable hotels include Four Seasons Hotel George V, Paris and Four Seasons Hotel London at Park Lane.
    7. Mandarin Oriental Hotel Group: Mandarin Oriental operates luxurious properties in Europe, including Mandarin Oriental Hyde Park, London, and Mandarin Oriental, Barcelona.
    8. Shangri-La Hotels and Resorts: Shangri-La has a presence in European cities, including Paris and London. Shangri-La Hotel, Paris, and Shangri-La Hotel at The Shard, London are well-regarded properties.
    9. Peninsula Hotels: Peninsula Hotels is known for its luxury properties, including The Peninsula Paris and The Peninsula London.
    10. Belmond: Belmond operates a collection of luxury hotels, trains, and river cruises in Europe. Notable properties include Belmond Hotel Cipriani in Venice and Belmond Reid's Palace in Madeira, Portugal.

These are just a few examples of hotel chains and properties that are renowned in Europe. It's important to note that there are numerous other independent hotels and boutique properties across the continent that offer unique experiences and employment opportunities. Conducting thorough research and exploring job opportunities in specific locations can help in finding the best-fit hotel to work for in Europe.

JOB SEARCH ENGINES

Hosco is the place to be if you love hospitality. From chefs to front of house, interns to hotel managers, housekeepers to receptionists, Hosco is made for you. Take a look around, find yourself and your perfect role here.

Sports

CAREERS IN THE SPORTS INDUSTRY

A comprehensive guide for IE University students
At IE University, we are dedicated to equipping our students with the skills and knowledge needed for successful careers across diverse industries, including the ever-evolving field of sports. This guide offers an in-depth overview of career opportunities, essential skills, and major players in the sports industry to help you navigate your career path with confidence and clarity.

Desired student profile for the sports industry
To thrive in the sports industry, students should possess the following qualifications and attributes:

  • Educational Background: A degree in business administration, marketing & communication, or a related field is highly recommended. A Master's degree in Sports Management or a similar specialization can significantly enhance your prospects.
  • Key Skills:
    • Strong interpersonal and communication skills
    • Leadership abilities
    • A deep understanding of the sports industry
    • Proficiency in marketing, event management, or digital media are valued
  • Experience:
    • Internships or volunteer work in sports organizations, clubs, or events
    • Practical experience in team management, sports marketing, or coaching
  • Personal Attributes:
    • Passion for sports
    • Teamwork and adaptability
    • High levels of professionalism and ethical standards
  • Networking:
    • Active participation in industry networks
    • Engagement in sports associations and professional development opportunities.

Career opportunities in the sports industry
The sports industry offers a broad spectrum of career paths, including but not limited to:

  • View Career Opportunities

    1. Marketing: Promoting sports teams, events, or brands.
    2. Communication: Managing media relations, public relations, social media, and internal communications.
    3. Business Analytics: Analyzing data to inform decision-making.
    4. Finance: Providing financial analysis and planning.
    5. Event Management: Planning and overseeing sports events.
    6. Sponsorship Management: Building and managing relationships with sponsors.
    7. Sales: Selling tickets, corporate hospitality packages, sponsorships, or advertising.
    8. Operations Management: Overseeing daily operations of sports facilities.
    9. Merchandise Management: Managing sports-related merchandise.
    10. Public Relations: Developing and implementing PR strategies.
    11. Facility Management: Overseeing the operations and maintenance of sports venues.
    12. Business Development: Identifying and pursuing new business opportunities.
    13. Human Resources: Managing recruitment, training, and employee relations.

Key players in the sports industry 
The sports industry is composed of various stakeholders, including organizations, teams, leagues, governing bodies, media outlets, and sponsors. Below is a list of some of the most influential entities and links to their career pages:

  • View Professional Sports Associations

    1. International Olympic Committee (IOC): The IOC is responsible for organizing and overseeing the Olympic Games, as well as promoting the Olympic Movement worldwide. You can find some tips for interns here.
    2. FIFA (Fédération Internationale de Football Association): FIFA is the governing body for international soccer (football) and is responsible for organizing the FIFA World Cup and other international soccer tournaments.
    3. National Football League (NFL): The NFL is the premier professional American football league in the United States, consisting of 32 teams.
    4. National Basketball Association (NBA): The NBA is a professional basketball league in North America, featuring 30 teams and widely regarded as one of the most popular basketball leagues globally.
    5. Union of European Football Associations (UEFA): UEFA is the governing body for soccer in Europe, overseeing prestigious competitions such as the UEFA Champions League and the European Championship.
    6. Major League Baseball (MLB): MLB is the top professional baseball league in North America, consisting of 30 teams.
    7. International Cricket Council (ICC): The ICC is the global governing body for cricket, responsible for organizing international cricket tournaments and maintaining the rules and regulations of the game.
    8. National Hockey League (NHL): The NHL is the premier professional ice hockey league in North America, featuring 32 teams.
    9. Formula One (F1): F1 is the highest class of single-seater auto racing, with races held worldwide and governed by the International Automobile Federation (FIA).
    10. Professional Golfers' Association (PGA): The PGA organizes and promotes professional golf events worldwide, including the PGA Tour and major golf championships like the Masters Tournament and the PGA Championship.
    11. LA LIGA (Campeonato Nacional de Liga de Primera División) is the top professional football division of the Spanish football league system. Administrated by Liga Nacional de Fútbol Profesional, it is contested by 20 teams.
  • View Companies Related to the Sports Industry

    1. ESPN and NBC Sports: These are prominent sports media outlets that provide extensive coverage of various sports through television networks, online platforms, and publications.
    2. Retail companies – main sponsors of sports events. For example, Nike and Adidas: These two sports apparel companies are major players in the industry, sponsoring athletes, teams, and events while manufacturing and marketing sports equipment and apparel.
    3. Marketing agencies in sports: Sportfive agency, YouFirst Sports (more options in the list of companies- participants at iWorkinSport job fair here).
    4. More options: Companies Participating in the Job Fair iWorkinSport 2024 and 2025.

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ADDITIONAL RESOURCES TO EXPLORE

CAREER WEBSITES IN FOOTBALL

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CAREER WEBSITES IN FORMULA 1

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CAREER WEBSITES IN TENNIS

SUCCESS STRATEGIES IN THE SPORTS INDUSTRY

To maximize your chances of success in the sports industry, consider the following strategies:

STAY UPDATED

TAILOR YOUR APPLICATION

  • Research: Understand the organization’s culture, mission, and recent achievements before applying.
  • Customize Your CV: Highlight relevant experience and use keywords from the job description to improve your chances with Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS).
  • Quantify Achievements: Demonstrate your impact with specific metrics, such as increasing event attendance or managing budgets.
  • Compelling Cover Letter: Convey your enthusiasm for the role and how your background aligns with the organization’s goals.

NETWORK EFFECTIVELY

LEVERAGE SOCIAL MEDIA

  • Monitor channels: Follow sports organizations on LinkedIn, Twitter, and Instagram for job openings and opportunities.
  • Engage with content: Actively participate in discussions and share content to increase your visibility.
  • Use hashtags: Engage with industry-specific hashtags to discover new opportunities (such as #SportsJobs, #SportsBiz, or #SportsMarketing).
  • Showcase expertise: Share relevant articles and insights to establish yourself as a knowledgeable professional.

GAIN PRACTICAL EXPERIENCE

  • Internships and volunteering: Seek hands- on experience through internships or volunteer opportunities to build your resume and network.
  • Freelance projects: Consider freelance work or side projects related to sports to enhance your skills and experience.
  • Continued education: Enroll in courses or certifications relevant to your desired role in sports, such as those offered by Sports Management Worldwide (SMWW).

BE PERSISTENT AND PATIENT

  • Consistent applications: Keep applying, even if it takes time to land your ideal role.
  • Follow up: After interviews or networking events, follow up to reinforce your interest.
  • Stay positive: The sports industry is competitive, but persistence and a positive attitude will help you succeed.

By adopting these strategies, you can enhance your chances of building a successful career in the sports industry, whether you are just starting or looking to advance your career.

Arts & Cultural Sector

Section Title Centered

Stack's visual style is simple yet distinct, making it an ideal starting point for your project whether it be a basic marketing site, or multi-page company presence.

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