A daring change of life from Colombia to France to work in the world of luxury goods

What is your professional background and how did you come to be Key Account Manager?

After studying communication and audiovisual studies, I worked for 4 years as an Account Manager in advertising agencies in Colombia. On a day-to-day basis, I created growth strategies and new product launches, analyzed the market and developed both strategic and operational marketing.

I wanted to change my life and develop my experience, combining my passion with my work. To achieve my goal, I had to go back to school to specialize in luxury and fashion. I knew I had to study in a country full of history, know-how and good schools. Gradually, my search turned to two countries: Italy and France.

At a trade fair, I discovered TBS Education. Won over by the programs adapted to both my professional background and my international study project, I decided to apply and move to France.

I joined TBS Education in 2018 to complete the International Luxury Marketing and Management specialized master's degree. We were a great class full of diversity. We bonded easily because we were all in the same situation, regardless of our origins: far from our families, far from our country. This made it easier for me to integrate.

I did my final internship at Karl Lagerfeld. It wasn't easy to find, but it gave me my first taste of the French job market. What's more, regaining trainee status isn't easy after a 5-year professional career. It took a lot of humility.

I stayed with Karl Lagerfeld for three and a half years, an initial long experience that enabled me to understand the French and then the European market and its customers. I was able to forge strong links with customers in Europe and Latin America, and discover the fashion world. It also enabled me to get to know myself better.

In 2023, I joined the UGG team at Deckers Brands. This complementary experience enabled me to develop sales strategies for the French market. It also enabled me to develop as a manager and to get to know the European consumer in much greater depth.

Why did you choose to study in France?

France is steeped in history and luxury know-how, particularly in fashion. Coming here to study in this field was an obvious choice. All I thought about was acquiring knowledge and skills, validating my diploma and then returning to Colombia.

Over time, I fell in love with France and stayed.

What were the main challenges when you arrived in France to resume your studies?

I faced several challenges, the first of which was the language barrier. I had to learn and adapt to French codes, particularly in the corporate world.

Secondly, going back to being a student after several years as an employee wasn't easy. I had to position myself as a leader to achieve my ambitions, despite being labelled an "intern".

I had to persevere and be humble enough to show that difference and diversity are a strength. I was really motivated to succeed.

How has TBS Education leveraged your career?

Over and above the knowledge I gained from the course, TBS Education enabled me to develop a strong and dynamic professional network. I was able to get out of my comfort zone, work on my French, adapt to the country and overcome certain fears.

It was very motivating to have projects to present to clients such as Hermes, Mauboussin or Le Coq Sportif, and to be able to live this first experience of strategy for a fashion brand in an academic setting.

What advice would you give our readers?

These are things that seem essential, but are easily forgotten.

The first would be to work in what you love, be happy and don't hesitate to link work and passion. For me, this is essential!

The second is to take advantage of your studies to open up to others and start building a network. Don't be afraid to make connections, find out what's out there and discover what opportunities are available to you.

The third would be to take advantage of your studies to volunteer in projects related to your career or passions. There are platforms like Fashion Week that can offer endless opportunities to young people who want to work in this fabulous profession.

Be curious, get out of your comfort zone and take risks.