L'Oréal & HEC Paris: Fostering Leadership and Innovation Through Collaboration
On January 15, 2025, HEC Paris hosted a special event in collaboration with L'Oréal, celebrating the long-standing partnership between the two institutions. For over 30 years, L'Oréal has been a valued corporate partner of HEC, enriching the academic environment through initiatives like the L'Oréal Chair and various programs aimed at fostering entrepreneurship and innovation among students.
The event began with an insightful welcome from Nayla Ibrahim, Executive Director of Corporate and Public Partnerships at HEC Paris, followed by a thought-provoking introduction by Gachoucha Kretz, Associate Professor at HEC and Academic Director of the L'Oréal Chair. Professor Kretz reflected on her long-standing collaboration with L'Oréal, emphasizing the transformative journey both the brand and HEC Paris have embarked on together, from traditional business practices to embracing technology, sustainability, and inclusivity.
The highlight of the event was a panel discussion featuring L'Oréal leaders: Christophe Babule (H88), L'Oréal’s CFO and Comex Member, Nicolas Desbonnets (H19), Head of Business at L’Oréal Paris, and Marion Laine (H12), Transformation Director at L'Oréal.
The discussion explored their paths to leadership, the evolving landscape of business at L'Oréal, and how they leverage the company’s diverse functions, to drive global impact. The panelists shared valuable insights on internal mobility at L'Oréal, highlighting the company’s commitment to developing talent and fostering an environment where employees can thrive across various roles.
The event also included a networking cocktail where students from HEC's Masters and MBA programs had the opportunity to engage with L'Oréal leaders and HEC alumni in various fields, including marketing, finance, HR, data, and sales, gaining a deeper understanding of the diverse career paths available at the global beauty and tech giant. Through the L'Oréal Chair at HEC Paris, the company supports cutting-edge research on topics such as consumer behavior, decision-making, and product preferences. This partnership, plays a crucial role in equipping students with the skills and knowledge to become tomorrow's leaders in the ever-evolving world of business.
About the HEC Paris–L’Oréal Chair The HEC Paris–L’Oréal Chair, established through a unique collaboration with L'Oréal, focuses on the intersection of marketing, innovation, and entrepreneurship. With the active involvement of L'Oréal executives, HEC faculty, and students, the chair provides invaluable opportunities for research and practical experience. It aims to inspire and train future leaders in areas such as consumer judgment, product innovation, and sustainable business practices. Through this dynamic partnership, HEC Paris and L'Oréal continue to shape the future of business education, preparing students to lead in a world that values creativity, technology, and social impact.