Bringing Strengths Together: Our Path to First Place in the 2024 MBS Case Competition

Winning first place in the 2024 MBS Case Competition was a significant achievement, testing our abilities and allowing us to reflect on the valuable lessons we’ve learned.

Our team, TradeWise, came together organically. Koko invited Vincent after admiring his knowledge in Finance and learning mindset in class. Although Vincent hadn’t planned on joining, he thought “Why not?” and brought Phong into the team, a strategic thinker in management consulting.

Koko was eager to tackle real-world challenges while fully committing to her studies after seven years working in HR. Vincent saw the competition as a growth opportunity, and Phong, a previous finalist, sought one last shot at the trophy before graduation. Together, we formed a well-rounded team; Koko’s HR expertise, Vincent’s financial acumen and Phong’s strategic insight were our greatest strengths.

Our roles naturally aligned with these strengths: Phong led the development of the overall strategy and innovative solutions, Koko crafted the multi-stakeholder engagement strategy and shaped change management tactics, and Vincent meticulously quantified financial outcomes to ensure the viability of our approach.

The competition was intense but immensely rewarding. From the case launch to workshops and Q&A sessions, each stage offered invaluable guidance. Workshops refined our analysis and presentation skills, while feedback from judges pushed us to think critically and adapt. The support from sponsors and organisers boosted our confidence, and being praised for our thorough understanding of the problem and solution was a proud moment.

The highlight was not just winning first place but also the friendships we built. We pushed each other to think deeply and brought out the best in one another. Our diverse strengths drove our success, but it was our shared commitment to excellence, mutual respect and trust, and learning agility that truly set us apart.

For future participants, Koko advises finding committed teammates with diverse strengths and perspectives to maximise a team’s effectiveness. Vincent emphasises thoroughly analysing the case and thinking quantitatively to prioritise key points. Phong suggests breaking down complex problems into manageable parts and ensuring team alignment.

Phong used part of his prize money to treat his friends in gratitude for their support and plans to take his family on a tour of Australia for his graduation. Koko will use hers to travel within Europe during her semester in the Exchange program, while Vincent will save his prize for future opportunities.

Looking ahead, Vincent plans to continue in corporate finance, advising companies on growth and operational improvements, excited to see businesses and people thrive. Koko envisions driving HR initiatives and collaborating with business leaders. Phong’s experience at UniMelb has broadened his outlook beyond management consulting, and he is eager to explore roles in business strategy or commercial development.

We are now more confident, better prepared, and excited for the future. This achievement is just the beginning, and we are ready to embrace new challenges with the same drive and determination that led us to the top. The best is yet to come!