Our incredible life paths: Paul FABRE (TBS 2016)

Why did you choose Toulouse, and TBS, to study?

The school’s reputation, its quality professors, and its international accreditations.

Would you tell us about your time as a student at TBS? 

I did an Executive MBA, which was involved going back to school after having held several management positions. The two years I spent there were particularly rich, with quality teachers, quality outside speakers, travelling, trips, executive projects, and, especially, an exception graduating class.

Who are you today?

What are you currently doing?

Currently, I am the Managing Director of the inter-profession of Southwest wines. I have multiple duties, including market analysis (of both France and exports), implementation of the marketing strategy in France (wide distribution, press relations, digital communications, and others), and global activities. We are present in more than 110 countries, but our actions are concentrated in Europe (mainly Germany, Belgium, United Kingdom, Switzerland, amongst others), Asia, (Japan, China) and North America (USA and Canada) and in Eastern countries - in particular Russia. Another of my jobs is innovation. Our field is susceptible to a number of challenges, which is why we’ve launched, and are taking part in, ambitious research and development projects. For example, we’re currently working on the resilience of countries vis-a-vie climate change, and testing disease-resistant grape varieties in order to reduce the use of phytosanitary products. We are even working with several aerospace laboratories regarding the transfer of technology and the role of artificial intelligence in the optimal management of the technical and economic data that we retain.

Why did you choose this career, this job?

Because it is a profession that’s at the crossroads of several issues: economic, since it is a question of developing our brands in several countries, and societal, in particular in regard to climate change. This is in response to the new consumer and territorial expectations, since one of our missions is to maintain a network of companies throughout the territory.

How did your studies help you reach your personal and / or professional achievements?

The Executive MBA has been a precious tool. First, it allows us to update or acquire new skills, particularly in the financial, strategic, management, and marketing sectors. These courses were valuable because they were both directly applicable to my company and beneficial to developing our activities. It was also a great experience because of the diversity of the other students. And it was essential to becoming a manager. In a word, it was invigorating! I was also surprised by the incredible number of projects, initiatives, conferences, symposiums, etc.

Where do you see yourself in ten years?

Wherever there are projects and challenges to be met by dedicated women and men.

What is your position on being involved with the alumni network?

How has the alumni network been a support to you?

As Vice-President, I would like to get involved so the network can continue to develop and provide services to former students. But the Alumni network is everyone's business. For my part, I benefited by relevant advice and "tips". Also, it is always a pleasure to meeting the school's alumni who work in various fields because meeting them lead to meeting others. Finally, I am amazed by the commitment of members of the Alumni Association - its young volunteers and staff. Their commitment is remarkable because they are the ones maintain the spirit of TBS.

How would you recommend using it?

By participating in certain events.

Finally, would you be okay with our Alumni contacting you directly if they are interested in your career?

YES