Interview with Clémence Brousse (IMHI 2019),  Associate Consultant - Hotels & Hospitality at JLL. 

AAIMHI: What do you remember from your time at IMHI?

Clémence: I have many fond memories from my time at IMHI: our F122 classroom, many inspiring courses, late nights at the K-Lab but also beers at the foys, pasta box at the Lab, long hours in the RER A, our amazing bar at “Nuit de l’ESSEC” and so many more. The academic excellence was a highlight, but what made it truly special were the great spirit and the people. Students, professors, and staff were all so passionate and driven, which created a stimulating environment. It is great to realise that we are now still in regular contacts and organising our 5th WED this year. In the end, what the program brings above all its amazing friendship.

AAIMHI: You have been very active with Junior IMHI, tell us about it! 

Clémence: Junior IMHI was a great experience for me. The previous graduating class has just relaunched the association and we took this challenge with Camil, Gaetan and Raphael. Thanks to the strength of the IMHI Alumni and their trust, we were able to start our first assignments. Working on real-world projects was a great way to apply the knowledge and skills we were learning in class and gain hands-on experience in the hospitality industry. I am proud of the work we accomplished during my time there, and it's been rewarding to see the association continue to thrive with each new promotion of students.

AAIMHI: What did you do right after graduating, can you share a bit about your experience?

Clémence: After graduating, I worked as an Operations Project Manager for a hotel group, Paris Inn (now Centaurus). It was a challenging but rewarding role and I gained valuable experience in project management and operations. I then decided to move to London to pursue new opportunities, but unfortunately, my plans were disrupted by the Covid-19 pandemic. I eventually found a new role in the marinas and real estate investment fund industry, where I worked as an investment and development analyst. This experience gave me a different perspective on the service industry and helped me develop new skills. I am now working as a consultant at JLL Hotels & Hospitality France, which has been a fantastic opportunity to further develop my expertise in the industry.

AAIMHI: Are there any lessons you have learned that you would like to share?

Clémence: One important lesson I've learned is the value of perseverance. The hospitality industry can be challenging, but by staying focused, working hard, and remaining open to new opportunities, it's possible to achieve success. I've also learned the importance of building strong relationships with colleagues and partners, and the power of collaboration in achieving common goals.

AAIMHI: Besides the academic degree, which are the soft skills you believe are particularly important today?

Clémence: In today's rapidly evolving world, being adaptable and curious are crucial soft skills. They are the foundations of being able to learn quickly, adapt to new situations, and think creatively. This is essential to face the current evolutions that the industry is facing: ESG growing importance, client new way of living, economics and politics challenges, etc.

AAIMHI: Do you believe the alumni association AAIMHI, the IMHI network, is important?

Clémence: Obviously, I believe the alumni association and IMHI network are very important. The hospitality industry is constantly changing and staying connected with fellow alumni and industry professionals is a great way to stay informed about new developments, exchange ideas, and build valuable relationships. The IMHI network is a strong and supportive community that offers many opportunities for personal and professional growth.

AAIMHI: What are your next steps?

Clémence: My next steps are to continue growing and developing. I also want to stay connected with the IMHI community and give back in any way I can, whether that's through mentoring students or volunteering with the alumni association. Ultimately, my goal is to make a positive impact on the industry and contribute to its continued growth and success.

 Thank you for sharing Clémence and for your great help to IMHI!