Meeting with Johan Trapani, former student at ESTC, who remembers fond memories of this school : the nice atmosphere but also and especially, the quality of his training.

Can you tell us about your studies and your career so far?

Following a BTS in commerce at the Lycée Périer, I did a DEESMA at the ESTC via a sandwich-training contract at Décathlon (Aubagne).
I then did the first year of the Master’s in Business Management and Strategy at the ESTC via a sandwich-training contract
at La Bureautique, a company specialised in the sale of printing systems; I worked there as a technical and commercial agent.
I continued the second year of the Master’s at the ESTC, also via sandwich training, this time as logistics officer at POLI, a company specialised in clothes manufacturing.
After I finished my sandwich training and got my degree, POLI hired me as a logistics manager.
I was promoted to sales exports manager and was in that role for 10 years.

What is your current situation?

After 12 years at POLI, I was hired by Bollé Brands, which is specialised in the distribution of sports accessories (ski helmets, ski sunglasses and ski googles). I’ve worked there as export sales manager for the EMEA zone (Europe, Middle East, Africa and India) since May 2019.

Why did you choose the ESTC to study for your FEDE degree?

The ESTC offered an academic programme that went right up to 2nd year master’s level – which is where I wanted to get to.
I also liked that the FEDE degree is a recognised European degree – that was really important for me. Another important consideration was the possibility of sandwich training. In fact, the institution was able to immediately offer me a sandwich-training contract thanks to its contacts.

How has your FEDE degree advanced your career?

The lessons I took as part of my FEDE programme helped me to translate my theoretical knowledge into practical skills on the ground. I realised that each subject taught in the programme was relevant to my professional work. The degree is comprehensive and has helped me (it’s still helping me) a lot throughout my career.

What is your fondest memory of your time at the ESTC?

I’d say the general atmosphere at the institution. The staff are always available to answer students’ questions.  Also, the teachers are really good in all the subjects; in particular I’d mention Mr Pierre Breffeuil, former managing director of Procter & Gamble, who taught our strategy and management classes.
My best memory is obtaining my second year-master’s degree.
It concluded three years of hard work in collaboration with the institution.

What advice would you give to students currently studying at the ESTC?

FEDE degrees are recognised by recruiters. I would recommend studying for your degree at the ESTC because the teachers are really good and you get great supervision from the staff.
The ESTC is a perfect combination of a good qualification, professional experience and coursework supervision.
That’s what you need to be 100% ready for the job market and get a great job.