City University Malaysia, 13th May 2025– City University Malaysia had the honour of welcoming Mr. Iulian Virlan, Chief Executive Officer of IMI International Management Institute Switzerland, to its campus for an engaging and insightful career talk with students of the Faculty of Hospitality & Tourism
Flying in from Lucerne, Switzerland, Mr. Virlan spoke on Accelerated Pathway Programme in Hospitality—a strategic partnership between City University Malaysia and the International Management Institute (IMI) Switzerland.
Distinguished Guests in Attendance
Mr. Sharizal bin Kamaruddin made the welcoming speech expressing his appreciation for the collaboration with IMI Switzerland. Image/City University Malaysia
The event was attended by students, faculty, and senior leadership, including Dr. Sara Oshaghi, Director of Marketing & Business Development; Mr. Sharizal bin Kamaruddin, Deputy Dean of Hospitality & Tourism; and Ms. Julie Nurafine, Head of Department of Hospitality & Tourism.
In his warm welcoming remarks, Mr. Sharizal expressed appreciation for the City U partnership with IMI, emphasising the value of international exposure in developing future-ready hospitality professionals.
Moderated by Hon. Sr. Dr. Mazlan Mohd Tahir (UKM) and Pn. Sarah Salleh (City University), the interactive Q&A session gave students the opportunity to engage directly with the architectural legend, sparking thoughtful discussions on legacy, innovation, and responsibility.
Mr. Iulian Virlan Takes the Stage
IMI Switzerland CEO Iulian Virlan takes the stage at City University Malaysia, sharing the benefits of pursuing a year abroad in Switzerland. Image/City University Malaysia
Mr. Virlan then took the stage with quiet confidence and commanding presence. His presentation captivated the audience as he outlined how the IMI pathway opens doors to international networking, high-level internships, and career opportunities with leading hospitality brands in Switzerland and beyond.
He also highlighted IMI’s diverse and vibrant campus community, which is home to students from over 100 nationalities and boasts an alumni network of more than 6,000 graduates—10% of whom are Malaysian.
A Glimpse into Life at IMI Switzerland
CEO IMI Iulian Virlan shares testimonials from student alumni of IMI Switzerland as City U students listen attentively. Image/City University Malaysia
To bring the IMI experience to life, Mr. Virlan presented a video tour of the IMI campus, showcasing scenic lakeside views, modern training kitchens, a fine-dining training restaurant, and excellent student facilities including gyms and recreational areas.
“The beauty of the IMI pathway,” Mr. Virlan shared, “is that it combines multicultural Malaysia with Swiss excellence. You’ll experience life and work in two very different cultural and professional environments. That kind of global exposure is a game-changer when entering the job market.”
Hospitality as a Global Mindset
The career talk was attended by (L-R) Mr. Sharizal bin Kamaruddin, Deputy Dean of Faculty of Hospitality & Tourism; Dr Sara Oshaghi, Director of Marketing & Business Development; Mr. Iulian Virlan, CEO of IMI Switzerland; Ms. Julie Nurafine, Head of Department of Hospitality & Tourism and Mr Suresh Issac Oliver and Ms Kitty Lee, IMI Switzerland Main Representatives in Malaysia. Image/City University Malaysia
Speaking on his philosophy of hospitality, CEO Iulian Virlan emphasised that hospitality is not just an industry—it is a mindset.
“From the moment you begin your studies, you are taught to place impeccable service, high standards, and guest experience at the heart of everything you do,” he explained. “No matter what challenges the world throws at you, core skills like communication, problem-solving, and cultural sensitivity are valuable everywhere.”
Student Engagement and Looking Ahead
A full-length shot of the auditorium at the end of the talk, with IMI CEO Iulian Virlan seated among students, faculty, and guests—marking a memorable close to the session. Image/City University Malaysia
After the talk concluded, City U held a lively Q&A session, where students asked thoughtful questions about the pathway programme, internship support, tuition fees, and post-graduation work opportunities in Switzerland.
The afternoon was wrapped up with a group photo of all attendees to commemorate the special occasion.
City University Malaysia is proud to have hosted Mr. Iulian Virlan for this meaningful exchange. We extend our heartfelt thanks to him for sharing his vision, and to the faculty of City U for making the event a success.
Introducing Accelerated Pathway Programme in Hosp
City U students pose with Mr. Iulian Virlan, CEO of IMI Switzerland. Image/City University Malaysi
The CityU-IMI pathway programme allows students to complete the first two years of their Bachelor of Hospitality Management (Hons) at City U, before progressing to IMI Switzerland for their final year.
At IMI, ranked among the world’s top 20 hospitality institutions, students will experience six months of classroom learning followed by a six-month paid industry internship. This immersive model combines academic excellence with real-world industry training, preparing graduates to step confidently into global hospitality careers.
By the conclusion of their degree, students will hold dual degree from City University Malaysia and IMI Switzerland, accredited by Manchester Metropolitan University, UK—an added advantage that enhances international employability.
If you’re ready to launch a career in hospitality with international flair and Swiss excellence, reach out to a career advisor at City U today!
For more information about City University Malaysia and its programs, please visit our website, City University Malaysia.
