Our Incredible Life Journeys: Elisabeth ROUX (TBS 1993)

A word of advice from a specialist in development of values, behaviour and emotional intelligence : "Give to receive. The Alumni network very much makes the school's reputation, over and above the rankings. Be active !!"

Can you tell us a little bit about yourself ?

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

After I had completed a BTS in Toulouse, I wanted to join an elite higher education establishment. I made a very strategic choice : I love the sea and skiing. Since Toulouse is at the crossroads between the Ocean, the Mediterranean and the Pyrenees, I had no doubts. In addition, I already knew about the Cave...  However, I did prepare myself, I took classes in statistics and I revised for the entrance exam. 

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

I had a ball. We were quite a small year. I lived nearby and we all knew each other. I was member of the Sports Bureau (BDS) together with the rugby team, Amazing ! I have fabulous memories. Moreover, I was lucky enough to have a very special godfather : Mr Ain ! For those of you who do not know who that is, he was the school's Director at the time. 

Have you any stories to share with us ? (student associations, projects, teachers…)

I knew the year above me so I was able to be in charge of my year's ice-breaking activities. I was privileged enough to sleep in a bungalow while everyone else slept under the stars. The week-end in the Landes was a great party with no stress for me. It was very funny to see the faces of my peers when they realized I was in the same year as them.  

Without mentioning the Cave…Too many stories to tell. It was magic !

I found my first job thanks to the school. I was intending to do a master or a course in America but the school called me in the middle of the summer. At that time, without mobile phones, that was a feat in itself ! I was actually in my student digs... I just couldn't refuse an opportunity in Madrid. I was selected and I changed my plans. 

Who are you today ?

What are you currently doing ?

After 26 years in Spain, in charge of HR consultancy companies, I just set up my own business in July. I am in partnership with English experts in Leadership.  

My customers always followed me and they have this time again. My speciality includes leadership and leader development. I am passionate about emotional intelligence, my background includes headhunting, executive coaching and I provide made-to-measure training courses for leadership programs. I work internationally and I employ teams all over the place. 

Where do you see yourself 10 years from now ?

I am really fortunate in that my job really is my passion. I have great fun at work and continue to learn, even if my mission is to help others. I travel a great deal : I accompany leaders and my clients all over the world. 

I have already proved myself in many areas. I have managed several companies, in particular, the Spanish subsidiary of a publicly-listed company based in London. I have reached the conclusion that in the years to come I will continue doing the same thing, whether independently or for Anglo-Saxons (who are at the cutting edge in leadership). The shape doesn't matter. The techniques evolve very quickly and we have to readapt all the time but the development of values, behaviour and emotional intelligence, of leaders.. will always be important.  

How do you position yourself with the Alumni network? 

How has the alumni network been a support to you ?

The Alumni network has always been part of my professional and personal life. I have hosted many Alumni in Madrid where I am based, simply to get to know them or to help, whether in their jobs or in relocation. I have some very good friends in the network.  

How would you recommend using the network ?

In particular when you are abroad, I would recommend getting in contact with Alumni. It's a fabulous way of getting to know new people, to relocate without trouble and of course, to open up your professional horizons. 

What advice would you give to Alumni of TBS, whether students or graduates ?

Give to receive. The Alumni network very much makes the school's reputation, over and above the rankings. Be active !!

Finally, are you willing for Alumni to contact you directly, if they are interested in your career path ?

Yes, certainly.