Summarize your career in a few lines
I joined Air Liquide's group in 2005, after a first experience in consulting. During 16 years I have evolved in the European platforms, serving the affiliates of the Industrial business line. I had the opportunity to play very different roles, working alongside a range of varied functions: Finance and Controlling (SAP implementation project), Sales and Marketing in a Product Manager's mission (industrialization and commercial launch of a new range of cylinders) Supply Chain and Logistics as Business Unit Director (management of a European warehouse of equipment), and finally Procurement and Digital, in charge of category managers first, then of a team dedicated to digitization of Procurement function. Since 2021 in Seppic, I am Digital & IT Director, and I pursue my path in this area of digital transformation.
Why did you want to do this job?
I don’t think I have a profession: my career path has been built until now through opportunities and wishes, people met and trust that has been granted to me. During my studies in University, I had no idea where I wanted to go. I had nevertheless identified that routine and recurrence did not suit me, I got bored quickly! This is how I discovered the project mode and the job of consultant: a steady pace, a changing environment... I then needed to put down my suitcases, to invest myself in a company over the longer term. term. Air Liquide fully met my expectations: combining stability and movement!
What drives you in your daily life?
Above all, I like to feel useful, to give meaning to everyday life and to carry out actions or achievements that lead to progress. Develop a vision and convictions, then engage others around a common goal, with all the human dimensions that entails. Collective intelligence and the “blank page” also fascinate me: building together, bringing out ideas and solutions that are enriched by reflection, opening up and questioning oneself in contact with others, sometimes being surprised by the result!
What has been your biggest challenge in your professional life?
Probably the biggest challenge in my professional life has been managing my own demands on myself. Not wanting to make choices, in particular between personal life and career, playing all the roles in parallel with the same level of expectation. I often had the impression of being everywhere at the same time without ever really being anywhere, of doing everything but not doing anything well: the famous guilt!
How has Seppic accompanied you throughout your career?
I am convinced that our private and professional lives cannot be separated. Air Liquide, then recently Seppic, has accompanied me over the past 18 years through the highlights, the happy times and the trials of life. Whether for maternities, family uncertainties or illness, I particularly appreciated the discreet presence of the Group by my side. Constantly listening, adapting to my needs and respecting my possibilities with flexibility, kindness, and above all trust.
If you had to give one piece of advice to a young woman starting out in her professional life, what would it be?
If I had to give advice to a young woman who is starting her professional life, I would tell her not to hesitate to spread her wings! Dare, don't set yourself limits, believe in your abilities and seize opportunities when they arise. Doubting is healthy, but it shouldn't stop you from taking action. And to reconcile family life and professional life, work on your organization, your personal efficiency and your sense of priorities: aim to be in the right place at the right time! Finally, think a little about yourself and remember that perfection does not exist!