Peak performance does not come about by chance. It is the result of discipline, structure and individual responsibility – and an environment that doesn't just permit development, but actively supports it.

At CIC (Switzerland) we firmly believe that talented young people should not have to make a choice between a solid vocational education and a career in sport. Those who seriously pursue both deserve a framework appropriate to the challenge. This is the starting point for the label "competitive sport-friendly training company" from Swiss Olympic, which was recently awarded to us.

 

What does the label "competitive sport-friendly training company" from Swiss Olympic mean?

Swiss Olympic awards the label to companies that provide reliable and structured support to trainees engaged in competitive sport. This includes flexible working and education models, close coordination between the company, the vocational college and the world of sport, plus a clear commitment to a dual career.

The aim is to allow young athletes to take a long-term perspective – beyond just the sporting path. The fact is, only a fraction of talented youngsters manage to make the leap into professional sport. So it is all the more important to have a sound vocational education as a reliable foundation for the future.

 

 

For CIC (Switzerland), however, the label is more than just a formality – it reflects an attitude; we take a holistic view of potential. And we are willing to take on the responsibility of encouraging that potential.

 

Learning to perform – in sport and at work

Competitive sport teaches skills that are priceless in professional life: focus on a goal, resilience, self-discipline, teamwork and a constructive approach to setbacks. At the same time, a demanding vocational education requires reliability, a willingness to learn and personal initiative.

Combining the two is a challenge. It can only work if everyone is pulling together – trainees, educators, line managers and the world of sport. As a training company, we create the necessary structures for this, and the room for manoeuvre required.

"We are proud to wear the label "competitive sport-friendly training company" from Swiss Olympic in recognition of our commitment to elite athletes in vocational education. It recognises the support we provide by offering them optimal conditions to succeed in terms of both vocational education and sporting performance." - Carole Oberson, Head of HR

 

A specific example: Jon Ajvazi

Jon Ajvazi is a good example of how this philosophy works out in real life. This young man hails from Basel, plays in the U16 elite team for FC Basel and at the same time is doing an apprenticeship at CIC (Switzerland) in Basel.

He has a packed schedule every week. His training, college, apprenticeship and recovery have to be coordinated carefully. As his employer, our contribution is to create a framework that makes this balance possible – without demanding any less in education or sporting performance.

"At CIC (Switzerland), I have the opportunity to follow my dream of becoming a professional footballer. At the same time, I can complete a financial apprenticeship. For me, that's the perfect mix." - Jon Ajvazi, apprentice

 

 

Our ambition as an employer

We don't just demonstrate our ambition in fancy words, we put it into action. In the way we educate young people, support them and take responsibility.

As a "competitive sport-friendly training company" we stand for a reliable quality of vocational training, flexibility with clear expectations, and the conviction that performance and perspective go together. We encourage young people with ambition who are willing to get involved to do just that – and we create an environment that allows this commitment to unfold.

If you combine vocational training and competitive sport at CIC (Switzerland), you will find clear structures, trust and genuine opportunities for development – at work and in sport.

Interested in a career at CIC (Switzerland)? Click here for our career website and vacancies.