Xander Kessler graduated from the Wisconsin School of Business with an MBA in Corporate Finance and Investment Banking in 2024, and today he works as a Finance Rotation Manager at Pfizer. A recent conversation with Xander reveals how his MBA shaped his career, what motivates him in the field of finance, and how he continues to leverage the skills he built at WSB.
Xander Kessler (MBA ’24) didn’t just change careers—he exemplified how diverse expertise can create value in business. Growing up in Wisconsin with a deep connection to the University of Wisconsin–Madison, he leveraged his background in biochemistry to bring a fresh perspective to pharmaceutical finance. His journey demonstrates the power of combining scientific rigor with strategic thinking to tackle complex business challenges.
There’s a defining moment in every professional’s life when clarity strikes—and for Xander that moment came while working in the lab. He was drawn to the scientific process—designing experiments, analyzing data, and solving problems that could make a difference in people’s lives. However, he realized that the pace of research wasn’t the right fit for him. “The work was interesting, but it moved slowly,” he recalls. “I found myself reading more about the stock market, companies, and financial models in my free time. That was when I realized—I want to do this.” That realization led him to pursue an MBA at the Wisconsin School of Business.
Xander’s decision to pursue his MBA at Wisconsin was driven by more than nostalgia. Yes, he grew up as a devoted Badger fan, but what truly drew him in was something more powerful: Wisconsin’s unmatched network and collaborative culture. “Wisconsin stood out because of its collaborative environment,” Xander says. “Everyone—from classmates to alumni—was so willing to help and share their experiences. There’s a genuine sense of community here.” He adds, “There’s such a good balance between academics, extracurricular, and athletic programs. Plus, the in-state tuition made it an easy choice. Wisconsin offered the best combination of quality, community, and affordability.” He credits the MBA with teaching him how to connect technical understanding with strategic thinking—a skill that continues to guide his career today.
During his MBA, Xander completed an internship at Pfizer, an experience that confirmed his interest in the biopharmaceutical industry. After graduation, he returned to Pfizer full-time, where his scientific background gives him a unique perspective when collaborating with research and development teams. “Understanding what brings a company value—especially in product development—helps me understand more effectively,” he explains.
“Now working in oncology, I can see why certain decisions are made and how they’re grounded in science.” For Xander, this intersection of science and finance is what makes his work meaningful. He’s not just analyzing numbers—he’s helping guide decisions that influence how life-changing treatments reach patients. “Being able to bridge those two worlds—scientific discovery and business strategy—is incredibly rewarding,” he says. Reflecting on his journey, Xander encourages current students to stay curious and open to new experiences. “Say yes to opportunities,” he advises. “Explore different areas, talk to people from different backgrounds, and don’t be afraid to try something new. Every experience adds perspective and helps you grow.”
Xander maintains his competitive edge by staying active and engaged. Whether he’s cheering on the Badgers during football season, playing soccer, or competing in pickleball matches, he understands that peak performance requires balance and renewal.
Xander’s work in corporate finance reflects a strong foundation built through coursework at UW-Madison and strengthened through experiential learning. Today, he continues to apply these skills in ways that support Pfizer in both its present and future endeavors.
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