Building Leaders Through IFSA's Global Vision At the center of this remarkable growth is Jules Maitrepierre, a leader whose sharp intellect and strategic foresight have redefined the potential of student-led initiatives.

In just a decade, the International Finance Student Association (IFSA) Network has grown into a global organization, connecting students and professionals alike while bridging the gap between academia and industry. With over 1,500 active volunteers and an alumni base spanning every corner of the corporate world, IFSA is synonymous with ambition, impact, and opportunity.

At the center of this remarkable growth is Jules Maitrepierre, a leader whose sharp intellect and strategic foresight have redefined the potential of student-led initiatives.

The Genesis of IFSA Network

The IFSA Network was founded in 2014 to address a glaring inequality in opportunities for students. "Without business connections, breaking into top industries was an uphill battle," Maitrepierre explains. "Good grades could only get you so far. For international students, the barriers were even steeper—they weren't just competing with talent; they were up against entrenched systems that prioritized access over merit."

Determined to level the playing field, Maitrepierre launched IFSA to provide the tools, resources, and networks students needed to succeed, regardless of their backgrounds. What began as a small initiative at the Rotterdam School of Management is now a global movement with chapters spanning all over the world.

"We had no financial backing," Maitrepierre recalls. "Convincing hundreds of people to dedicate themselves, for free, to something with no immediate payoff was incredibly challenging. Getting companies to take us seriously was even harder. Why should they trust a group of students with no resources or track record? The answer was simple: we had to prove the long-term value we could deliver."

A Global Footprint

Maitrepierre's determination helped IFSA thrive across industries. Alumni have made their mark in banking, hedge funds, commodities, technology, and beyond. "If you name any top-tier company in the world, there's probably an IFSA member there," Maitrepierre remarked.

This breadth of influence is a defining feature of IFSA. Organizations like DE Shaw and BlackRock are just a few examples where IFSA alumni are thriving, demonstrating the network's caliber and global reach.

Flagship Programs

IFSA is renowned for its innovative programs that combine competition, mentorship, and real-world impact:

The Global Case Competition at Harvard: This flagship event attracts thousands of students from around the world to tackle real-world business challenges. Winners have earned opportunities to meet leaders like Stephen Schwarzman, founder of Blackstone, and secure coveted internships.

Trader's Cup: The largest student trading competition globally, this event tests participants' financial acumen and positions them for recruitment by top firms.

Youth Empowerment Program (YEP): Extending IFSA's impact to underserved communities, this program teaches financial literacy to young students, empowering them to educate their families and foster economic independence.

Looking ahead, IFSA is preparing to launch a Global Scholarship Program to support bright, underprivileged students. "The scholarship program will ensure that the brightest students, no matter where they come from, get the chance to excel," Maitrepierre shared.

A Visionary Leader

Jules Maitrepierre's leadership has been the driving force behind IFSA's evolution into a global powerhouse. Known for his astute intelligence and natural charisma, he possesses a rare ability to inspire trust and rally people toward a shared vision.

"My goal was never to create an organization dependent on me," Maitrepierre reflects. "From the start, I wanted to build something that could stand on its own—an ecosystem driven by the talents and ambitions of its members. Today, IFSA is led by remarkable individuals who continue to elevate what we started, often surpassing expectations."

A native of France, Maitrepierre's international experience and multilingual fluency reflect the global nature of IFSA. His ability to balance strategic thinking with pragmatic execution has earned him respect across industries.

A Legacy of Excellence

IFSA's impact is visible in the achievements of its members, who have gone on to excel in companies like McKinsey, Goldman Sachs, and other industry leaders. The organization's strength lies in its ability to adapt and set new benchmarks for what student-led initiatives can accomplish.

"We built IFSA to last," Maitrepierre says. "It's about the people who are part of this network—their ideas, ambitions, and successes. That's what drives us forward."

As IFSA enters its second decade, it continues to evolve, fostering innovation, creating opportunities, and empowering the next generation of leaders to leave their mark on the world.