A significant turning point in her career came when she transitioned from the world of music to finance and investment. Embracing this shift with courage, Denada pursued studies in business administration and finance, including an MBA from Switzerland and a postgraduate certificate from at Harvard Business School. Her unique combination of artistic insight and analytical acumen allowed her to thrive in her new field, where she rose to the role of Investment Managing Director. As a co-founder of ADLR PARTNERS AG, Denada now leads with a focus on sustainable and impactful investments, bringing her innovative mindset to each decision.
Despite her success in business field, Denada’s love for music has remained a vital part of her life. She is now part of the Vienna Beethoven Group in Vienna/ Austria, where she brings together her leadership skills and creative vision. Denada’s journey exemplifies the power of adaptability and lifelong learning, showing that it’s never too late to take on new challenges and explore diverse fields. Through her work, she hopes to inspire others to embrace change, pursue their passions, and make a positive impact in their communities.
Tell us about yourself and your story, how did you end up where you are?
Looking back, my journey is about resilience and change. I grew up in Tirana, Albania, in a very supportive family. I loved playing with my friends but always came back to my passions for music and literature. This dedication shaped my work ethic from a young age. This disciplined upbringing provided me with a strong foundation. It taught me the importance of dedication and hard work – values that guide me to this day. Each memory from my youth, from the warmth of family interactions to the challenges of school, helped sculpt my identity, forming the essence of who I am today.
I studied classical music conducting at the Tirana Academy of Arts and started my career as a journalist and music editor at Albanian National Radio Television. My love for the arts grew as I composed songs, wrote lyrics, and performed, which enriched my life deeply. Life then led me down a new path, shifting from the arts to finance and investment. This change was challenging but incredibly rewarding, opening doors to new skills and opportunities.
Today, I’m proud to be recognized as an Investment Managing Director with investment experience in finance, technology, sustainability, AI, health, and real estate. Lifelong learning is a big part of my journey. I hold an MBA from Switzerland, certificates from WIFI Austria, and a postgraduate certificate from Harvard Business School. Recently, I was accepted at UCAM University and UniAthena Oxford, where I will begin my studies for a Doctorate in Business and Management to enhance my knowledge.
As a co-founder of ADLR PARTNERS AG in Liechtenstein and founder of “Prime Rauch Capital” currently in the founding process in Switzerland, I guide investments that aim for both profit and positive impact. Though investment and finance is now my main focus, music remains close to my heart. I’m honored to be part of the Vienna Beethoven Group as a conductor, where I get to combine my love for music with leadership, creating a space for others to prosper.
What ‘s your biggest lesson learned on your journey?
The biggest lesson I’ve learned is the power of adaptability. Life is unpredictable and often disrupts our plans. Embracing change has been essential for my growth, helping me gain new skills and insights. This journey has shown me that resilience isn’t just about enduring challenges but thriving through them.
What separates you from competition or other companies?
What sets me apart in my field is the blend of artistic creativity and analytical skill. My arts background fuels innovative thinking in finance, allowing me to approach investments with fresh perspectives and cultural awareness. I believe creativity and analysis complement each other, driving unique solutions in my work.
Any tip/advice for young professionals or entrepreneurs?
My advice to young professionals is simple: stay curious, keep learning, and see failures as steps toward growth. Surround yourself with a network of mentors and people who inspire and challenge you; their support can be invaluable in navigating the complexities of your journey. Additionally, never underestimate the power of active listening -learning from others can provide insights that formal education may overlook.
It is crucial for young generations to explore and learn diverse, alternative approaches to technology and stay informed about novel trends and innovations, as technology plays an important role in our lives nowadays.
How do you see yourself in 10 years?
In the next decade, I aim to lead initiatives in sustainability and innovation, driving positive change and inspiring ethical leadership. My goal is to found/join an trust fund/venture fund focused on supporting early-stage startups in sustainability, AI, innovation, and healthcare, helping them build solutions for a better future.
What keeps you motivated every day?
My motivation comes from life’s simple pleasures and a desire to make meaningful changes. Each day offers a chance to grow, inspire others, and make a positive impact. I find inspiration in art, nature, stories, and the potential for our work to drive social and environmental good, beyond just financial success.
What is your favorite quote of all times?
A favorite quote of mine is from Albert Schweitzer: “Success is not the key to happiness. Happiness is the key to success. If you love what you are doing, you will be successful.” This resonates deeply with me, reminding me that true fulfillment comes from doing what you love, not just pursuing traditional success. It encourages me to stay connected to my passions while striving for excellence.
What are the main factors that led you to where you are right now?
Curiosity, a love for learning, and a willingness to step outside my comfort zone have shaped my journey. Each experience, in arts or finance, has equipped me with the skills to navigate my role today, embracing change and viewing challenges as growth opportunities.
Who is your role model or inspiration in your life?
My mother is my biggest inspiration. Her perseverance and dedication taught me hard work, resilience, and integrity. She showed me that true strength comes from within, and that family support helps us achieve our dreams.
What are the top 3 core values in life?
Integrity, creativity, and empathy are my core values. Integrity keeps you true to your ethics, creativity fuels innovation, and empathy helps building strong, collaborative relationships.
What are the key moments / turning point of your life?
Key turning points in my life include moving from music to business field and pursuing further business education. These experiences taught me the value of adaptability and lifelong learning, showing that success is rarely linear, and each step offers growth.
What personality traits make a good leader?
A great leader embodies communication skills, confidence, empathy, adaptability, and decisiveness. The ability to inspire and motivate others is essential, as is the capacity to listen actively and respond to the needs of the team. Strong leaders cultivate an atmosphere of trust and collaboration, essential for supporting innovation. I believe that leadership is not merely about being in charge; it’s about serving, encouraging and uplifting those around you.
What is the best and the worst part of your job?
The most rewarding part of my job is driving positive changes in projects and teams, bringing immense satisfaction and personal growth. Balancing multiple responsibilities and navigating challenges can be demanding, but these moments also provide valuable learning opportunities.
What is the biggest challenge you have faced in your career? How did you overcome it and what did you learn from it?
One of my biggest challenges was entering a male-dominated industry. I overcame this by building strong relationships, demonstrating competence, and taking bold initiatives. This experience taught me resilience and deepened my belief that diversity and inclusion are vital for innovation and success.
What do you look for when outsourcing or hiring?
When hiring, it’s important to prioritize cultural fit, relevant experience, and a collaborative mindset. I look for individuals with the right skills, a passion for their work, and a commitment to shared values. I believe a strong team is built on shared goals and mutual respect, and I value a humble work environment where colleagues feel like friends, not just co-workers.
What strategies do you use to stay ahead of the curve in your industry?
I prioritize continuous learning, networking, and staying updated on trends to stay relevant in a constantly evolving field. I also encourage my team’s development, fostering a culture of growth and innovation.
In what ways do you foster innovation and creativity within your organization?
I encourage open communication and a collaborative environment where everyone feels valued and free to share ideas, driving innovation and creativity. I value diverse perspectives, as the best ideas often come from unexpected places.
How do you balance the pursuit of wealth and success with personal fulfillment and happiness?
I believe success goes beyond financial gain; it’s about making a positive impact. I regularly align my goals with my values, seeking both personal fulfillment and professional success—an ongoing journey of reflection and intention.
Name three books that changed your life and what did you learn from them!
As a book lover, I have read so many books since my childhood and there are so many of them that have greatly influenced my mind and spirit.
My favourite books are:
“Sapiens: A Brief History of Humankind” by Yuval Noah Harari
Lesson that I learned from this book: Understanding our evolutionary history helps us appreciate the complexities of human behavior and society.
“Emotional Intelligence” by Daniel Goleman
This book had really a great impact on me; it illustrates the profound impact of emotional intelligence on professional and personal relationships, shaping how humans engage with each other in different situations in their life and work.
“The Night Circus” by Erin Morgenstern
This novel tells the story of a circus that appears only at night, exploring themes of love, fate, and destiny. It shows how imagination shapes our world and how our choices and connections leave lasting impacts, inviting readers to embrace life’s magic and wonder.
www.linkedin.com/in/denada-bare-rauch
BY Egli HAXHIRAJ, Anamaria MESHKURTI and Jonida GJUZI
© All Rights Reserved Moneys Media Ltd Geneva, Switzerland.
