Now a 30-year specialist in the recruitment of executives, Sylvain Pène is the director of mobility at LVMH. Today, he works in executive recruitment for the Amrop group. According to him, a mobility experience in France is an undeniable asset in a career.

WHAT KIND OF ASSET MAKES AN EXPERIENCE IN FRANCE FOR AN INTERNATIONAL STUDENT?

From the point of view of the country of origin, studying abroad brings real open-mindedness. It's an opportunity to speak the language and understand the culture and economic system of the host country. Choosing France means opening up to a Cartesian way of thinking, but also to a French touch and culture that doesn't exist in other countries. Let's not forget that French has been the official diplomatic language for centuries. A foreigner who studies in France will discover French corporate culture and business "à la française".

HOW IS THIS EXPERIENCE DETERMINING FOR A CAREER?

Many French companies are world leaders in their industry: Total, Air Liquide, Schneider Electric, etc. By choosing France, students have the opportunity to understand how these multinational companies work, as well as learn their mechanisms. Then, they may become collaborators or participate in their international development. Studying in France is also the opportunity to make contacts with young French people who will work in these companies and become the leaders of tomorrow.

WHY ARE STUDENTS INTERESTED IN THESE COMPANIES?

When I was in LVMH, we were looking to recruit Chinese, South-Americans and other international profiles. They interested us because they would introduce new ideas. For recruiters, employing an international student after his studies is a strategic move: the student speaks several languages, masters the intricacies of two or more cultures, and is gifted with an ability to adapt to foreign situations. He can therefore become a very important asset to the international development of a company.

WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE TO YOUNG INTERNATIONAL GRADUATES IN FRANCE?

Don't go back to your country yet. After your studies in France, go work in other regions of the world to complete your international experience, it will allow you to be of greater value for companies in France or other countries.