Listen to the interview in French only (mp3, 5 MB)
After graduating from ESC Rennes in 1999, where I majored in international business, I began my career as a sales and marketing manager with a French group specializing in raw materials. After four years in this position, followed by 18 months as head of sales administration at head office in Paris, I was keen to broaden my professional horizons.
I therefore joined Valtimet, a Vallourec Group subsidiary specializing in titanium and stainless steel welded rolled tubes. I am in charge of sales follow-up for customers in the seawater desalination and energy markets (conventional and nuclear power plants) in Europe, Middle East and Japan. This position involves considerable travel, and I spend around 40% of my time away from the office.
Sales coverage for this region is provided either directly (France and Russia), via agents (Northern Europe, Italy, Middle East and Japan) or by a Valtimet representative office (Germany). This wide variety of representation channels enables the Group to constantly reassess the most appropriate management and follow-up strategies. The freedom to work independently and the cultural diversity of my contacts make this an extremely attractive position.
I have dealt with a series of challenges during my four and a half years with Valtimet, including familiarizing myself with and building loyalty among our major customers, monitoring the Group's sales agents, and setting up and managing a representative office.
The main attractions of this position include:
- Considerable autonomy in accomplishing the stated mission
- Diverse nature of the role, which is more than just a sales position
- Cultural diversity of contacts
Looking ahead, I see myself working for Vallourec in an international role, whether in sales management or the management of a business unit. I am enthusiastic about the future, motivated by the genuine career prospects on offer in North America, Brazil and Asia.