Tomorrow's Workforce

T H E

M A G A Z I N E

F O R

A N G L O - F R E N C H

B U S I N E S S

FRENCH CHAMBER OF GREAT BRITAIN www.frenchchamber.co.uk

A SPECIAL ISSUE ON EDUCATION & SKILLS:

ESCP, ESSEC, Grenoble Ecole de Management, HEC and Nobel laureate Jean Tirole of Toulouse School of Economics, plus ‘Five Minutes With’ Julien Vautel, CEO of Hedios and much more…

WINTER 2019

PROTECTING YOUR PEOPLE IS OUR PRIORITY International SOS is the world's leading medical and travel security risk services company.

We care for clients across the globe, from more than 1,000 locations in 90 countries.

We pioneer a range of preventive programmes strengthened by our in-country expertise. We deliver unrivalled emergency assistance during critical illness, accident or civil unrest.

Our 11,000 employees are passionate about helping you put Duty of Care into practice. With us, multinational corporate clients, governments and NGOs can mitigate risks for their people working remotely or overseas.

A GLOBAL INFRASTRUCTURE YOU CAN DEPEND ON: 26 ASSISTANCE CENTRES

900 REMOTE SITES

With our local experts available globally, you can speak to us in any language. anytime 24/7.

An accredited, integrated network of 56 clinics and 850 medical sites around the world. Practising a supervised

5,200 MEDICAL PROFESSIONALS

emerging countries, offshore and remote locations.

Immediate access to experts with extensive experience in all fields of medicine coupled with a thorough knowledge of the local environment and healthcare system.

A network of accredited healthcare, aviation and security

ACCESS TO 2,300 SECURITY SPECIALISTS

in the air, on the ground and at sea.

international standard of medicine - in developed and

81,000 ACCREDITED PROVIDERS providers ensuring we provide you with the best logistics

24/7 access to travel security reporting, analysis and expert advice from our security consultants, analysts and tracking experts around the world.

WORLDWIDE REACH. HUMAN TOUCH.

internationalsos.com

BARJANE, with you for your logistics property projects in the UK BARJANE is a real estate company strongly committed to sustainable development.

BARJANE is responsible for the entirety of each project: • Site search • Project planning & design • Site preparation • Building construction • Provision & operation of photovoltaic power plants • Property & facility management

BARJANE welcomes Decathlon to its Northampton site • Completed in 2018 • Central position in the Midlands • Distribution centre for 44 stores and online business • 300 workers on site • BREEAM certification with ‘very good’ rating • Energy efficient construction &rainwater harvesting for bathrooms • On-site MUGAs (multi-use games pitches)

CONTACT US +44 (0) 203 961 4415 BARJANE, For a sustainable logistics real estate

www.BARJANE.com

Winner of the FBBA CSR Award 2018 recognising the role of La Fondation Dassault Systèmes in supporting education and research towards a more sustainable society and its support to the 3D CARE project on congenital heart diseases www.lafondation3ds.org

EDITORIAL

Fabienne Viala President, French Chamber of Great Britain Chairman of Bouygues UK and UK Country Director of Bouygues Construction

T

he education sector is a rapidly changing and dynamic space. Institutions of higher education are adapting to a future job market, characterised by significant shifts in job roles and skills needed to succeed in a new business environment.

Education is also increasing beyond the formative years in primary, secondary and university levels.

A renewed emphasis on life-long learning is evident in a number of activities, including in professional development and extra-curricular learning in a range of contexts.

According to the World Economic Forum, the job market will reinvent itself in the context of what they call the fourth industrial revolution. Companies for their part are seeking to harness new technology and adapt to a consumer base of increasingly global digital natives. Job seekers will be tooling up their skills to compete in markets looking for specialist technical skills, in addition to an increased demand for soft skills across sectors.

In these pages we hear from a range of our members active in education, professional development, HR and recruitment. The insight and analysis they provide shows just how this sector is meeting new demands and facing new challenges head on.

The twenty page focus also explores how values and ethics are leading some of this change. A renewed emphasis on climate change and sustainability is at the top of the agenda. Similarly, a sense of purpose is important for the growing cohort of millennials joining the world of work, as is the pressing need to adapt to a more diverse and globally-minded workplace.

As we enter 2019, this issue is the perfect companion to the year ahead, typically a time when we are fresh from our holiday break and eager to consider personal and professional development. I hope these articles help inspire you both in the growth and successes of your companies and of yourselves.

As you read the issue, I wish you a very Happy New Year. I

info

- winter 2019 - 7

IN A CHANGING WORLD,

LOCAL PRESENCE, GLOBAL REACH, AND LONG-TERM COMMITMENT TO THE UK MATTERS

DUNDEE

GLASGOW

EDINBURGH

NEWCASTLE BELFAST

LEEDS MANCHESTER

SHEFFIELD

BIRMINGHAM SOLIHULL CARDIFF BRISTOL

LUTON

HIGH WYCOMBE SWINDON

BOREHAMWOOD

READING

BASINGSTOKE

LONDON TUNBRIDGE WELLS CHICHESTER

The bank for a changing world

This communication is for professional clients only. The value of your investments can go down as well as up, so you could get back less than you invested. This advertisement has been approved and issued by BNP Paribas. BNP Paribas, incorporated in France with limited liability (Registered Office: 16 boulevard des Italiens, 75009 Paris, France, 662 042 449 RCS Paris, www.bnpparibas.com), is authorised and lead supervised by the European Central Bank and the Autorité de Contrôle Prudentiel et de Résolution and authorised by the Prudential Regulation Authority. BNP Paribas is subject to limited regulation by the Financial Conduct Authority and Prudential Regulation Authority. Details about the extent of our authorisation and regulation by the Prudential Regulation Authority, and regulation by the Financial Conduct Authority are available from us on request.

Happy Bir thday I N F O M a g a z in e!

60 55

A SPECIAL ISSUE ON EDUCATION & SKILLS

28

1979 2019

42

CONTENTS

47

39 T H E

M A G A Z I N E

F O R

A N G L O - F R E N C H

B U S I N E S S

FRENCH CHAMBER OF GREAT BRITAIN www.frenchchamber.co.uk

BUSINE S S WOR LD

10

12 17 23 26 27

Five minutes with...

Julien Vautel, Hedios Brexit: Analysis and Insight Business News Start-up profile: Andjaro Start-up story: Qwil Messenger Reports & research

FOCUS | TOMOR ROW ' S WOR K FORCE

28 Introduction 30 The New Tool Kit

Terence Tse, ESCP EBS 31 Education's Next Steps

Laurent Batut, Turenne Consulting 32 Business School Trends

Julie Perrin-Halot (Grenoble) & Simon

Mercado (ESCP) 34 Tackling Challenges Head On

Jean Tirole, Toulouse School of Economics 36 Building a Learning Culture

Jean-Marc Tassetto (Coorpacademy) &

Alain Roumilhac 37 The Importance of Soft Skills

Christelle Bimar, Atlantis Consulting 38 Students of Tomorrow

J. Puckett, Boston Consulting Group 39 Building Skills in Primary and Secondary

Francois-Xavier Gabet, CFBL 40 A Perspective on Studying Abroad

Aisling Byrne, InseecU London 41 The Value of Experience

Cathy Wellings, LSIC 42 The Diversity Advantage

Junko Takagi, ESSEC 43 Toward Economic Peace

Dominique Steiler, Grenoble EM 44 Help at the Top

Ludovic de Montille, Visconti Partners 45 Coaching and Mentoring

Kady Doumbia, King Stage 46 AI in HR

Michael Segalla, HEC

47

48

Ghost in the Machine Raymond Silverstein, Browne Jacobson LLP Freelance on the Rise Jean-Charles Varlet, Creme de la Creme

WINTER 2019

A SPECIAL ISSUE ON EDUCATION & SKILLS:

ESCP, ESSEC, Grenoble Ecole de Management, HEC and Nobel laureate Jean Tirole of Toulouse School of Economics, plus ‘Five Minutes With’ Julien Vautel, CEO of Hedios and much more…

CULTUR E AND LIFE S T YLE

50 53 54 56

Culture: What's on Book reviews by Institut Français Feature: Taylor Wessing Photo Prize Wine Story by Thibault Lavergne

AT THE CHAMBE R

58 Introduction by Florence Gomez 59 Chamber News 62 New Members FORUMS & CLUBS

65

66

67

68

69

70

71

72

Climate Change & Sustainability Forum Hydrogen Trains Retail Forum The Meaning of Luxury HR Forum From Diversity to Inclusion Finance Forum Demystifying the Cloud Digital Transformation & Innovation Forum Content Management Luxury Club Studio tour: Antony Gormley Start-up & SME Club Brexit for SMEs Forthcoming Forums & Clubs

CHAMBER EVENTS

73

74 76

79

Annual Financial Lunch Charlotte Crosswell, Innovate Finance Report: Franco-British Business Awards Past event highlights Ambassador's Breif; Seminar ON5; Seminar Econocom; Womens Network Event Joffe & Associates; Behind the Headlines; Cheese and Wine Forthcoming events

Managing Director: Florence Gomez Editor: Jakob von Baeyer Cover & Graphic Design: Katherine Millet Production Manager: Suzanne Lycett Contributors: Terence Tse, Laurent Batut, Julie Perrin-Halot, Simon Mercado, Jean Tirole, Jean-Marc Tassetto, Alain Roumilhac, Christelle Bimar, J. Puckett, Francois-Xavier Gabet, Aisling Byrne, Cathy Wellings, Junko Takagi, Dominique Steiler, Ludovic de Montille, Kady Doumbia, Michael Segalla, Raymond Silverstein, Jean-Charles Varlet, Suzanne Lycett, Thibault Lavergne

Advertise in INFO: Please call our sales team on +44 (0)207 092 6651.

Alternatively, please email: advertising@ccfgb.co.uk INFO is published every two months Printed by: CPI Colour Distribution: French Chamber members, Franco-British decision makers, Business Class lounges of Eurostar, Eurotunnel and Air France in London, Paris and Manchester

INFO is published by: French Chamber of Great Britain Lincoln House, 300 High Holborn London WC1V 7JH Tel: (020) 7092 6600 Fax: (020) 7092 6601 www.frenchchamber.co.uk info

- winter 2019 - 9

Five minutes with...

Julien Vautel CEO of Hedios

INFO speaks with the chief executive of the French brokerage firm on their investment products, Brexit, and their decision to set up in the UK What are the activities of Hedios in the UK? Hedios is the founder of a range of exclusive and dynamic

that is unique on the French structured investments market.

investment solutions for French private clients called ‘Gammes

Hedios is actually a real Fintech! Therefore, our clients can be

H.’ Our solutions are designed for people who want to invest

based wherever in France and overseas.

their euros in a mid-long term perspective.

In addition to this practical point, the decision to base

Hedios has been present in London for almost four years, with

operations in the UK and more specifically in London was

offices based in Mayfair. French expatriates are welcome to

motivated by one major factor: the French community. The

come and discuss directly with the Hedios team about their

number of French expatriates and families is impressive and in

savings in complete confidence. More than 10,000 clients trust

constant development. Expanding to London was a timely and

us and our performance. Therefore, our ambition is to offer

natural move.

our ‘savoir-faire’ to French expatriates in London, so they can benefit from our track record, which on average has delivered

How have you overcome the challenge of relocation?

8.17 percent yields per year, net of all fees, for the past ten

Hedios’s strategy in France is exclusively online. As a matter

years.

of fact, being 100 percent online is the key to deliver performance and transparency to our clients. However, our

Could you explain ‘Gammes H’ and how the product was

team of advisors is constantly available by phone in order to

conceived?

provide to our customers an individualised support to better

Gammes H is a unique asset class that aims to provide clients

position themselves on the Gammes H.

with substantial gains, even when the markets are steady. It is

In London, we tailored another business approach (even if

also designed to protect capital if the markets fall to a certain

the process to subscribe remains in France). We concentrate

level when the investments come to term.

our efforts to meeting individual investors in person. Our

For ten years, Gammes H have been a reference in the

intent is to inform and explain the mechanism of Gammes H

savings market with more than an 8 percent net annual rate

and their objectives when they have intentions to grow their

of return. Past performance is not a guarantee of future

savings in euros. We believe that when it comes to personal

results and is not constant over time. However with Gammes

savings, it requires time and trust!

H investors benefit from principal protection and a snowball effect while requiring minimal market knowledge and time.

Hedios has also developed a premium and free service

In order to interact with French expatriates, Hedios is a member of various associations and clubs within the French community that organise networking events. Moreover, in

that offers a bespoke approach to invest savings called the

2018 we launched ‘Les Rendez-vous Gammes H’, as informal

‘Mandat Gammes H.’

events in prestigious London venues. These are organised on a regular basis so attendees can learn more about Hedios’

What led to the decision to base operations in the UK?

unique investment offers.

Since its creation, Hedios has become a key player in the French savings market as a specialist of investment solutions.

How has Brexit affected your business?

We have developed a 100 percent online process to subscribe

Brexit has an effect on every business in the UK, particularly in

10 - info - winter 2019

F I V E M I N U T E S W I T H . . . J U L I E N VAU T E L

At this stage, Brexit has had a positive impact on our expansion. Brexit threats and uncertainty have led French expatriates to save less in pounds, and to begin saving in euros the finance industry. However at this stage of the negotiations, Brexit is not affecting negatively neither our activities nor our

the best benefits.

Hedios’s business in the UK also benefits from an organic

expansion. Brexit threats and uncertainty have led French

growth. Our clients are naturally our best ambassadors.

expatriates to save less or completely stop saving in pounds

Therefore, reaching more ambassadors, particularly French

and to begin or intensify saving in euros.

expatriates working in the finance industry, would definitely be

Furthermore, Gammes H are seducing French expatriates who

another priority for 2019.

have the intention of going back to France in the medium or long term. Our offer has come just at the right time for those

What does being a Patron member of the French Chamber

who wish to invest their euro savings in order to finance future

means for Hedios?

projects, for instance in property, higher education for their

We are very proud to have been a Patron member for

children, or retirement.

the past two years. The French Chamber provides various networking opportunities and helps to connect companies

What priorities do you have going forward?

of different sizes and business sectors. It is truly important

Hedios’s main priority is to continue to grow in terms of image

for a French company that aims to develop business in

and awareness among the French community in London.

London, as we do, to be part of the French Chamber in order

In order to reach more clients, we are convinced that our

to share best practices and learn from each other. Being a

performance is best shared through word of mouth. In 2019,

Patron member also gives us the chance to attend exclusive

we will celebrate the tenth anniversary of Gammes H, and we

events in prestigious venues where we can exchange with

are very proud of our track record achieved during this period.

CEOs of CAC40 and FTSE companies. It’s a club for business

More than 10,000 clients trust us and encourage our team to

friendships! I Interview by JvB

create and promote investment solutions that would deliver

HEDIOS BY NUMBERS • Year founded: 2009 • Company size: 20 employees • Number of investment products: one new product each month • Total money managed: +200m generated

info

- winter 2019 - 11

Analysis and look ahead INFO looks at the latest news on Brexit and its impact on the Franco-British community

T

he run up to the holiday break was a particularly tumultuous

would mean having ‘to treat the rest of the United Kingdom as a

time in the Brexit process, ending with PM Theresa May

third country’ and it would not participate in trade deals the UK

postponing a Commons vote on the withdrawal agreement

may enter in future.

(that she stood to lose) and heading to Brussels to argue for more concessions.

In early January, the PM spoke to EU Commission President Jean-Claude Juncker to seek written assurances that the

As it currently stands, the prospect of a ‘no deal’ is still

unpopular border backstop in her current deal will not be used.

looming, unless a deal can be reached that receives the

As the deadline of 29 March becomes ever closer, many

approval of a majority of British MPs. Matters are made more

Whitehall watchers are expecting the PM to ask the EU for an

difficult by the fact that the EU has not been keen to reopen

extension of the withdrawal process. This could be followed by

negotiations to the proposed agreement.

a general election in Britain.

A recent poll of Tory party members found that 57 percent

A second referendum is also still on the cards, in spite of its

supported a no-deal, if the current deal and remaining in the EU

unpopularity with many in the Tory party. Noting the growing

are the only options.

tensions and divisions across the country, Brexit Secretary

The Northern Irish ‘backstop’ has been a thorn in the

Stephen Barclay recently said that the PM would not agree to

government’s side. The DUP’s Brexit spokesperson, Sammy

a second referendum as it threatened to ‘continue to spilt our

Wilson, said that the party opposed the current deal because it

nation.’ I

Key dates Brexit day

Trade talks and transition

An end to transition

(29 March 2019)

(After 30 March 2019)

(31 December 2020)

Look out for political declarations

As long as a withdrawal agreement is

The transition period is scheduled to

on this historic day, be it seamless

in place, trade talks can now begin in

end, with some EU negotiators doubting

transition or chaotic cliff edge.

earnest between the EU and UK.

that a trade deal can be reached in time.

The risks to our economy and security from no deal are far too high and it would be irresponsible to allow it to happen YVETTE COOPER, Labour MP, on 7 January

If the British Government seeks an extension of Article 50, that will have to have EU approval, but that is not something we would stand in the way of SIMON COVENEY, Irish Foreign Minister, on 8 January

12 - info - winter 2019

Sponsored by

Digital impacts The latest meeting of the Brexit Forum explored the potential outcome for the UK digital sector after Brexit

T

he Brexit Forum welcomed guest speaker Thomas Goldsmith,

Policy Manager, Brexit and Trade, at TechUK, an industry group representing more than 900 companies in the UK tech sector. Goldsmith delivered a presentation on ‘The impact of Brexit on Digital Services.’ The session was chaired by Angela Hepworth, Corporate Policy and Regulation Director, EDF Energy and Neil Sherlock CBE, Senior Adviser, PwC.

to the drafting of EU regulations,

implementation, now planned for 2019,

such as GDPR 2; and there may be

falls outside of a transition period, or in

Areas of interest

consequences for industry as the UK

the context of a no deal.

Goldsmith outlined several areas where

has been a pro-business voice in past

there are potential future challenges for

EU proceedings.

the UK tech sector. He noted regulatory

There are current questions about

Gaps and opportunities The digital sector is not alone in seeing

compliance, e-privacy and the future

the extent to which the so called ‘Article

talent shortages in relation to Brexit.

skills gap, and touched on many areas

13’ copyright directive will impact the

Access to skills from EU countries and

where the UK is part of a network

UK. The European Parliament recently

beyond has been important to the

beyond its borders.

voted in favour of a set of rules that

development and ongoing success of

could force tech giants to do more to

the sector. The UK clearly has a need

that the EU’s new legislation on data

stop the spread of copyrighted material.

to be able to attract the global talent to

protection and privacy, known as GDPR,

The UK-based Alliance for Intellectual

sustain and grow the industry, opening

will be adopted globally. If any nation

Property has come out in favour of the

the door for discussions on rules for

wishes to do business with the EU or EU

directive, as has Universal Music Group.

new working visas, yet to be decided by

countries, they will have to follow GDPR

Critics include Silicon Valley giants

the UK government.

regulations, which stipulate rules for all

Google, YouTube, Facebook, Netflix –

companies that collect, store or process

many with operations based in the UK.

In the area of regulation, it is clear

data belonging to an EU citizen.

There are questions about how the

Some of these new regulations have

As there are also questions around future trade agreements – and how these might include digital activity – the

come into force before the UK has left,

UK tech sector is in a ‘wait and see’

UK will continue to cooperate with this

though some have not, like the EU’s

period like many other sectors. There

legislation, particularly when the second

replacement for the ePrivacy Directive

may be a ray of hope in a new trend

version of the legislation is launched,

as part of a broader Digital Single

toward digitally specific trade deals that

which will crucially begin to introduce

Market Strategy, aimed at bolstering

could free up the sector to continue to

rules in respect of AI. The UK outside of

trust in the security of the digital market.

grow on a global scale. I

the EU will have no way to contribute

The UK may encounter difficulties if

The UK outside of the EU will have no way to contribute to the drafting of EU regulations, and there may be consequences as the UK has been a very pro business voice in past EU proceedings info

- winter 2019 - 13

Taking up the torch There is a role for France to play in safeguarding positive British contributions to the EU, say Pascal Boris and Arnaud Vaissié of think-tank le Cercle d’outre-Manche

A

report from a leading Anglo-French organisation outlines

The British example

four vital areas where the UK contributes to the European

Le Cercle d’outre-Manche is a think-tank with a unique

Union, and sets out an opportunity for France to fill the gap

mandate to promote best-in-class British economic and public

following a British exit from the EU.

policies in France.

Le Cercle d’outre-Manche, an independent think-tank

The self-funded group was founded in 2004 by Pascal Boris

that promotes best practices for business development and

CBE, former CEO of BNP Paribas in the UK, and Arnaud Vaissié,

economic policies, released their report, 'Les 4 contributions

Chairman and CEO of International SOS, and includes many

majeures du Royaume-Uni à l’Union européenne qu’il conviendra

prominent French business people operating in Britain.

de préserver et de continuer à porter après le Brexit: Un rôle à jouer

‘Our experience as CEOs led to the idea that there was an

pour la France? (The four major contributions of the UK to the

opportunity for France to adapt to British success,’ says Pascal

EU necessary to preserve after Brexit: A role for France?) last

Boris.

July.

The report details areas where the EU stands to lose out after Brexit, if key British contributions are lost.

They include the strength of British championing of free

‘It would be impossible for the British to try to influence policy makers in France, as is our aim. But as French citizens living and working in the UK, we have legitimacy and the necessary ties to French ministers.’

trade and of expanding the single market, and Britain as a

The think-tank has registered many successes, including

leader in labour liberalisation and model for other EU countries.

influencing French reforms based on British examples, such as

It also notes the British example of a governance structure that

the Jobcentre, the Enterprise Investment Scheme and the Low

favours independent regulators, and has a strong pro-business

Pay Commission.

(and anti-red tape) voice in Brussels.

In its conclusion, the report argues that France ‘must dare to

Arnaud Vaissié, who is also President of the overseas French Chambers of Commerce (CCI France International),

be the voice of economic freedom in the European Union both

notes that the think-tank’s work has taken on special

for its national interest and that of Europe,’ and that this ‘will

significance following Britain’s EU referendum vote.

help to create the necessary conditions for greater prosperity for all the countries of the Union.’

It advocates on behalf of the next generation of business

‘We see an important role to play in the long and twisting story between our two nations,’ says Vaissié. ‘Regardless of what happens, deal or no deal, we see a place for thought

men and women, those who value individual freedom and

leadership and above all the need to maintain the dialogue

understand that the role of the entrepreneur is now widely

between Britain and France.’ I

valued in society on both sides of the Channel.

www.cercledoutremanche.com

As the issue of British departure continues to escalate, the think-tank is considering plans to re-release the report in 2019.

Deal or no deal, we see a place for thought leadership and above all the need to maintain the dialogue between Britain and France 14 - info - winter 2019

Outstanding

bilingual education for children aged 5 to 15

For Open Days and 2019-2020 registration, please visit www.cfbl.org.uk

GROUPEINSEEC-LONDON.CO.UK

Let’s solve your most complex problems, using Data Science, with a Human Touch.

We develop world-class analytics capabilities to power-up your revenue strategy.

You want to optimise your revenue strategy, improve your data strategy or launch a Data Science project?

Contact us at: sophie.desroseaux@ekimetrics.com

PARIS | LONDON | NEW YORK | HONG KONG | DUBAI

ekimetrics.com

NEWS

A ND

A N A LY S I S

Accelerating automation Ripples from the Brexit effect reach further into the labour market

A

Brexit induced skills shortage may accelerate the rate of

PwC reports that industries with many routine processes,

automation, a recent report by the temporary staffing firm

such as transportation, will see the most impact. Health and

The Adecco Group has found.

The number of incoming workers from the EU has already

education sectors will be less affected, due to their strong human bias.

dropped at its fastest rate since records began over the past

Research by the World Economic Forum (WEF) indicates

year, according to the Office for National Statistics. This is

that 50 percent of companies expect automation to lead to

anticipated to continue as Brexit takes hold.

some reduction in their full-time workforce by 2022. Thirty-

The Adecco report says that 71 percent of managers think acquiring the skills they require will be more difficult post-

seven percent of employees surveyed by PwC in 2018 are worried about automation putting jobs at risk.

Brexit, due to this loss of talent. A third of UK managers, and

However, the WEF predicts that, despite the loss of certain

up to 44 percent of those in London, highlight automation as a

jobs, there will be an overall net increase in positions available

potential way to compensate for this skills shortage.

due to the creation of new roles. PwC supports this forecast.

Alex Fleming, Country Head and President of Staffing and Solutions, the Adecco Group UK and Ireland, says ‘In order to

These new jobs will fulfil the demands of new tech such as AI and robotics.

not just succeed but thrive once the UK leaves the EU, every

A 2017 report by Deloitte takes this a step further. They

employer needs to have a plan for how they will address

predict that jobs would be re-designed and re-imagined in a

current and potential future talent challenges.’

hybrid human/machine environment. The future workforce

Robots v humans

will be about ‘creating new ways of working within a culture for human/machine collaboration.’

The potential impact of automation is much debated.

In order for this to become a reality, investment in people

Professional services company PwC reports in ‘Will robots

must continue, as Sheffield Hallam research suggests: ‘It is

really steal our jobs?’ that automation has the potential to

crucial to balance investment in people with investment in

boost productivity and improve upon products and services

tech. Adopting new technology will naturally mean that the

for companies. A recent study by Sheffield Hallam University

necessary skills to implement and maintain it will need to

found that this type of technology would help companies to

evolve.’

compete globally. It would lower production costs and offer more scope to adapt to new markets.

Brexit is therefore just one more cog in the very complex engine of this rapidly advancing field. I SL

But what of the human impact?

info

- winter 2019 - 17

LSEG reports on African markets

London Stock Exchange Group (LSEG) launched a series of reports on African capital markets, which were developed as part of its London Africa Advisory Group (LAAG). The five reports put forward recommendations on how African capital markets could be further developed to increase global investment flows.

EDF Energy wins two public sector contracts

Legrand acquires smart home company

Legrand strengthens its presence in the internet of things and takes another significant step forward in deploying its Eliot programme for connected solutions by acquiring Netatmo, a French leading smart home company. The acquisition of Netatmo, whose brand will be integrated into Legrand’s portfolio, will enable the Group to strengthen its presence in the smart home market, and speed up the development of Eliot, its programme for connected solutions.

EDF Energy will supply electricity to public sector bodies in Scotland and the North East of England after being awarded two separate electricity supply contracts by Scottish Procurement and NEPO (North East Procurement Organisation). Both contracts include opportunities for public sector customers to lower their energy costs as well as their carbon emissions. I

Capgemini receives Backbase recognition

Capgemini has been named the Global Solution Partner of the

Year by Backbase, the omni-channel digital banking platform leader. Backbase selected Capgemini based on its ability to shape optimal Backbase solutions for specific clients. The award was presented at the annual Backbase Connect 2018 event. I

LVMH reaches an agreement with Belmond to increase its presence in the ultimate hospitality world

LVMH Moët Hennessy Louis Vuitton (LVMH. PA), the world’s leading luxury group and Belmond Ltd. (NYSE: BEL), owners, partowners or managers of 46 luxury hotel, restaurant, train and river cruise properties, today jointly announced that they have entered into a definitive agreement for LVMH to acquire Belmond.

18 - info - winter 2019

KPMG promotes Northern innovators

Professional Services firm KPMG has taken five ambitious scale-up businesses from across Greater Manchester to WebSummit – the global technology conference in Lisbon – to fly the flag for the very best innovation coming out of the UK’s Northern Powerhouse. The delegation of Northern businesses were referred to KPMG by the Manchester Growth Company, which works closely with KPMG’s Enterprise practice to support ambitious scale-up businesses with their growth agendas. I

BUSINE S S WOR LD – NE WS AND ANALYSI S

Charlize Theron Christian Dior campaign

For the launch of J’adore Absolu Parfums Christian Dior has released a new

campaign starring Charlize Theron, the face of its flagship fragrance for the past 14 years. Wearing a dress inspired by the Songe design created by Maria Grazia Chiuri for Dior’s spring-summer 2018 haute couture collection, the actress embodies a modern goddess, liberated and strong as she lingers sublimely in a golden bath in a monumental yet intimate hammam. I

Alstom inaugurates high speed line

ENGIE develops green gases in France ENGIE has announced that €800m would be mobilised in the next five years to develop green gases, a new French sector of excellence that will create value and jobs in France. This plan will support the objective of at least 10 percent green gas injected into the networks by 2030, as enshrined in the French Energy Transition Law for Green Growth. CEO Isabelle Kocher said, 'Gas, which will gradually become green, will play a key role in the de-carbonation of our country, along with other sources of clean energy generation.’ I

Alstom participated in the inauguration of the TangierCasablanca high speed line with its very high-speed trains supplied and delivered to the Office National des Chemins de Fer Marocain (ONCF). The line has been inaugurated

Alstom also supplied the level 1&2 on-board ERTMS for

Groupe Renault acquires sales start-up

the trains. I

Groupe Renault is announcing the acquisition of CARIZY,

by His Majesty, King Mohammed VI and French President Emmanuel Macron. Alstom supplied ONCF with 12 very high-speed trains for the Tangier-Casablanca railway section.

a service company specialised in intermediation between private individuals in used-vehicle sales. Through the

International SOS reports on effects of business travel

The International SOS Foundation has teamed up with

acquisition, the group is integrating the know-how and skills required to quickly build a position in the peer-to-peer UV market. CARIZY’s expertise rounds out Renault’s longstanding know-how and sales network in UV sales between professionals and private individuals. I

Kingston University and Affinity Health at Work, to reveal insights into the habits, health and psychological implications of international business travel (IBT) on the traveller. The whitepaper ‘Keeping International Business Travellers Happy, Healthy & Engaged at Home and Away’ uncovers organisational, social and individual factors that support and hinder the psychological health of IBT. I

Orange Business Services partners with Enedis Orange Business Services has been selected by Enedis, the leading European energy distributor, to support a transition toward a more effective and smarter electricity distribution network. The energy transition is characterised by the growth of fluctuating and decentralised energy production (wind and solar) and the rise of new uses, such as selfconsumption and electric vehicle charging. In this context, equipping the power network with cutting-edge IT and digital technologies is essential to manage the increasing complexity of the power system. I

info

- winter 2019 - 19

BUSINE S S WOR LD – NE WS AND ANALYSI S

Deloitte report predicts climate change focus for regulators Deloitte has published its Financial Markets Regulatory

Outlook for 2019, with the firm highlighting the key areas that the UK, EU and other EMEA regulators will be focusing on in the year ahead. For the first time the Outlook includes climate change as a focus, with 2019 expected to be a seminal year that will see the financial impact of environmental risks, both with regulators and in boardrooms across the financial services industry.

David Strachan, Partner and Head of Deloitte’s EMEA Centre for Regulatory Strategy, commented: ‘A multitude of weather-related events (heatwaves, storms and wildfires) has brought climate change to the fore and made it evident that 'physical risks' from severe catastrophes are on the rise, and that financial services firms can be directly and indirectly vulnerable to them. Regulators’ focus is moving beyond insurance firms to encompass banks and investment managers as well.’ I

Taylor Wessing advises games studio Wooga

Taylor Wessing has advised Wooga, Berlin-based casual games developer, on its sale to Israeli mobile games company, Playtika Ltd (Playtika). Famous for hits like June’s Journey and Tropicats, Wooga develops games in the Puzzle and Hidden Object categories. Combining Wooga’s creative and story-driven capabilities with Playtika’s marketing, scale and data-driven expertise, the acquisition will help to boost Wooga’s global growth and position Playtika as a fastgrowing player in the casual games sector. Wooga’s CEO Jens Begemann will continue to lead the team from its Berlin headquarters, leveraging the Wooga brand to attract top talent. I

Moore Stephens and BDO in advanced merger discussions

The merger between Moore Stephens and BDO signals a desire to improve competition and quality at upper end of the audit market. A combined firm would create the largest UK accountant and business adviser focused on entrepreneurially spirited, fast growing businesses and high-net-worth individuals. I

BCG named leader in consulting

ALM Intelligence has named Boston Consulting Group (BCG) a top leader among the world’s premier consulting firms for its depth of ability to get results and overall client impact. The ALM Vanguard: Talent & Leadership Consulting, an annual report that assesses the capabilities of the world’s major consultancies, ranks consultants on a relative basis according to their ability to create impact for their clients. BCG was ranked the highest among both strategy and HR consultancies. I

EY announces Van Gogh exhibition at Tate Britain

Bringing together the largest group of Van Gogh paintings shown in the UK for nearly a decade, The EY Exhibition: Van Gogh and Britain will include over 45 works by the artist from public and private collections around the world.

They include Self-Portrait 1889 from the National Gallery of Art, Washington, L'Arlésienne 1890 from Museu de Arte de São Paolo, Starry Night on the Rhône 1888 from the Musée d’Orsay, Paris, Shoes from the Van Gogh Museum, Amsterdam, and the rarely loaned Sunflowers 1888 from the National Gallery, London. I

20 - info - winter 2019

Sopra Steria wins FCA contract Sopra Steria is today announcing a new engagement which will see it provide application maintenance services across all the major systems at the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA). This is the latest major contract between the organisations, which follows the company’s development and launch of the Market Data Processor (MDP) in January 2018. The MDP, built to service requirements of the new MiFID II regulation, is one of the most industry-critical regulatory cloud platforms ever built in the UK and since going live, has already securely handled over 6 billion transactions as of 1 October 2018, averaging over 31 million transactions per day. I

Safran steps up cybersecurity

Safran has announced new efforts to increase

JCDecaux renews global road safety campaign

Jean-Charles Decaux, Chairman of the Executive Board and Co-CEO of JCDecaux, and Jean Todt, President of the Fédération Internationale de l’Automobile (FIA), have renewed their road safety partnership – #3500LIVES – for the third year running.

This global campaign was launched in 2017 to reduce road accidents, which cause 3,500 deaths every day around the world. The partnership between the FIA, which represents 246 member organisations in 145 countries, and JCDecaux, which uses its advertising spaces around the world to give the campaign maximum visibility, gives this road-safety initiative an unprecedented scale.

knowledge and insights into in cybersecurity threats. ‘The more information that's shared, the more important it is to secure the systems that carry it," says Frédéric Gourjault, Safran's Chief Information Security Officer. ‘As well as protecting the integrity of data on the plane, we need to ensure that no individual can ever interfere with the flight controls to take control of the aircraft remotely or modify its flight plan, for example. We must also address the potential threat to our production facilities, which are increasingly digitised.’ I

Pinsent Masons advises solar park application

After undertaking extensive pre-application consultation and rigorous environmental studies, Cleve Hill Solar Park Limited submitted an application to the Secretary of State for Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy for a Development Consent Order for the proposed Cleve Hill Solar Park. Partner, Gareth Phillips

Browne Jacobson recognised for recruitment and training

Lex 100, the most comprehensive assessment of law firm training contracts in the UK, has announced that Browne Jacobson is a winner in four categories this year. The firm’s recruitment and trainee programme is recognised as one of the best in the country and the firm’s retention rates are high. It was recently shortlisted in the ‘Best training contract by a national firm’ category at the AllAboutLaw Awards 2018 for the second year in a row. The firm is also ranked in The Guardian UK 300 as one of the country’s leading graduate employers and won the ‘Best vacation scheme by a national firm’ award from graduate recruitment website, allaboutlaw.co.uk.

and Associate, Peter Cole of Pinsent Masons have advised the applicant since the genesis of the project in 2015. Not only is this the first and largest project of its kind in the UK, it has also been designed to make provision for innovative technologies, including the latest and most efficient east-west aligned solar modules, and energy storage solutions. I

info

- winter 2019 - 21

BUSINE S S WOR LD – NE WS AND ANALYSI S

CBRE appointed by Anytime Fitness for UK Anytime Fitness, the UK’s leading fitness franchise, has appointed CBRE, the world’s leading real estate advisor, to advise on all property acquisitions across the UK. The partnership will support Anytime Fitness’ objective to become the UK’s largest fitness operator, giving franchisees the opportunity to capitalise on CBRE’s wealth of knowledge in property to secure new club locations. CBRE will be a retained agent for Anytime Fitness and can be commissioned at a cost by franchisees to help support their property search and assist in providing competitive commercial terms. I

AXA acquires Chinese P&C insurer

PwC launches programme to encourage young people in tech

domestic shareholders of AXA Tianping Property & Casualty

a pilot scheme to help encourage more young people to

Insurance Company Ltd to acquire the remaining 50 percent

pursue technology-related careers - especially young girls to

stake of the company. ‘AXA Tianping represents a unique

help close the gender gap.

platform for AXA to capture fully the significant growth

Teachers from Lyng Hall School, Finham Primary School,

potential of the P&C and health markets in China. By

Rugby Free School, Finham Park and Finham Park 2 are

leveraging its broad domestic presence, strong distribution

taking part in the Tech We Can programme - a series of

capabilities, and our international brand with global Health

lessons to help educate young people about technology and

and P&C expertise, we look forward to offering high-

encourage them to consider careers in the industry. I

AXA has entered into an agreement with the current

Five Coventry schools are the first in the UK to take part in

value products and services to our existing and potential customers in Chin,’ says Thomas Buberl, Chief Executive Officer of AXA. I

Schneider Electric launches contractor platform

Schneider Electric, the leader in energy management and automation, has launched the Contractors Portal. Partnered contractors will have access to the portal, where they can obtain detailed information on Schneider Electric products and free training resources including webinars. The first 1000 new members will also receive a free Schneider Electric beanie hat on joining. I

Thales develops Korean satellites

Thales Alenia Space, a joint venture between Thales and Leonardo, announced that it has signed two contracts with South Korea, with Aerospace Industries and Hanwha Systems Corporation, to develop a constellation of high-resolution observation radar satellites for the Agency for Defence Development. I

AccorHotels celebrates 10th anniversary of endowment fund

Helping to combat the economic and social exclusion of the most disadvantaged people was the rationale behind the creation of the endowment fund Solidarity AccorHotels. Ten years on, more than 300 projects have been supported in 45 countries to help 172,800 direct beneficiaries with the aid of 20,000 AccorHotels employees directly involved in projects to help the most vulnerable. I

22 - info - winter 2019

BUSINE S S WOR LD – S TART- UP PROFILE

Looking inward for talent Quentin Guilluy, CEO and Co-Founder of Andjaro, talks to INFO about how to take advantage of an internal job marketplace What does Andjaro do?

product that makes people happy.

Andjaro helps large companies

All mobility is voluntary, meaning

optimise their workforce and

that we are not obliging anyone to

reduce their need for external

take part. Those who are impacted

employees, such as agency

asked for it and very often have

workers, that are very expensive.

a bonus or something similar to

We can see this as an internal

encourage the mobility. Feedback

marketplace to fill in very punctual

is therefore very positive. They

jobs on the go. The whole idea is

learn new things, they increase

that whenever you need someone,

their employability. They discover

you’ll make sure that you’ve looked

new managers and best practises.

internally before calling for an

I know it’s hard to believe, but

agency worker.

I don’t think I remember any complaints coming from the

You made the strategic decision

employees of my customers.

to change the direction of your mission, from temporary

Why the focus on the UK

workers to the internal

initial product and that you need to give

marketplace. How did you come to

up on eighteen months of hard work

The UK market is very mature in buying

this decision?

to give life to your new idea. Luckily, we

start-ups and the sales cycle in the UK is

By listening to our customers. Agencies

had a very strong first customer. It was

shorter than anywhere in Europe. They

are doing a very tough job and I think

easier to make this decision when we

are not as afraid as lots of countries

what the market needs is not a new

knew that we had a first customer that

would be to work with start-ups and I

temp provider. It’s more how do you

could lead to a giant contract.

don’t see fear of the digitised world as

reduce your agency budgets. One way

market, in the midst of Brexit?

you can see in other countries.

of doing that is simply optimising your

How have you seen the role of

own workforce and making sure that

‘talent’ in businesses evolve in recent

to understanding the market to get to

whoever is available on your payroll will

years?

the US. Even if the culture is different, in

get the job in priority. Your manager

The main difference I have seen is that

France we believe that the UK market is

will not call the agencies while you

start-ups have more money than ever.

closer to the US market than any other

have so many internal employees who

So there is a big talent war going on

market. So if you want to get to the US,

would like to do the job. So it’s talking

in the sector. The idea that start-ups

the UK is a good learning step.

to our customers and understanding

pay less than large groups or that the

what their issue is rather than what we

mission is more important than the

How have you had to adapt to the UK

thought it was.

salary for the employee is coming to an

market?

end. When we need to put the budget

Our product fits with different use

What were the challenges in

on the salary, we put the budget on

cases. You have the overstaffed

implementing this?

the salary, as much as any large group

employee, the part timer and casual

The main challenge is very personal.

would do. There are so many start-ups

worker who wants to work more. In

When you launch your business there

now that the talent has a very large

France the overstaffed part is quite

is always this status that you get when

choice and the job or vision of the

important due to our employment law,

you’re an entrepreneur, with your family

company is not enough anymore.

whereas in the UK market, employment

and friends. One day you come to

The UK is also a good starting point

law is way more flexible so our product

them and say: ‘Listen, I’ve been wrong

How have the employees themselves

is interesting to give more hours to your

for one and a half years and actually

reacted to the mobility opportunities

zero hour contracts of part timers. The

my business is going to be this.’ The

your solution provides?

sales pitch is very different due to those

toughest part is the attachment to your

I think we’re quite lucky as we have a

different environments. I

info

- winter 2019 - 23

Get ÂŁ30 off your first rental with code INFO30 *New users only, valid until 31 March 2019, for rentals in the UK

Cars around you, ready to go Planning a weekend getaway?

A business trip out of the city?

drivy.co.uk

BUSINE S S WOR LD – SME NE WS

Verdier & Co. recognised in investment banking ranking

V

erdier & Co. Corporate Advisory, the independent corporate finance advisory firm focused on the UK and France and setup by J-Philippe Verdier, is pleased to have been cited for the second consecutive year in the mergers & acquisitions ranking of the magazine Décideurs & Dealmakers, with a special mention in the “High Reputation” category. The judges highlighted their longstanding and deep knowledge of the French and UK markets and our expertise in specific sectors such as healthcare (incl biotech, medtech), tech, and cleantech. I

Agily CEO leads EIC workshop

SMD collaborates with EGIS

F

S

ollowing the EASME Academy workshop in Copenhagen in April 2018, Virginie Vinel

was invited to deliver a workshop on how to

ylvie Milosevic, SMD+ Founder & Director is proud to announce their collaboration with

EGIS Group on Major International Sport and

grow your business using external experts

Entertainment projects. EGIS Group is involved

at the 2018 European Innovation Council

in sports facilities on the Olympic stadium in

(EIC) Innovators' Summit in Berlin. She

Istanbul, Turkey and the Velodrome Stadium in

organised the format, the activities, secured

Marseille.‘It is an amazing opportunity for our

and briefed the speaker, animated the event

practice to contribute on providing our knowledge

and reported on the findings. The workshop

and experience in the field of Sports to Egis

was introduced by a lively presentation from Ian

Group. Our consultancy will provide project

Gosling, the Founder of London-based Autto.io. They developed a

management support services to EGIS in Sports,’

Software as a Service (SaaS) easily that automates repetitive tasks and

says Milosevic. I

documents for law firms and in-house legal departments, regulated industries and professional services companies. I

Citizen Press designs new logo for La Défense

E

ditorial creation agency Citizen Press, based in London and Paris, has been working closely with Paris La Défense for a number of years to design and develop the district’s communication tools. The aim of this collaboration is to highlight the assets of Europe’s first business district in relation to other major European business hubs, such as London. The public institution asked Citizen Press to redesign its emblematic frog. With its playful tagline – ‘Don’t worry, be froggy!’- the frog was launched in London in October 2018 during Mipim UK. It made its reappearance to usher in the new year 2019, cementing its place as Paris La Défense’s official mascot. I

Earlymetrics launch start-up pitching event

E

arly Metrics not only rates start-ups, they also support them in creating successful relationships with corporates. They believe that sharing knowledge and insights can lead to a stronger innovation ecosystem involving both newcomers and industry

giants.

That is why they started the EM Pitching nights, a series of events where a selection of highly rated start-ups have the chance to present their company to a qualified audience of industry specialists and blue-chip corporates. The most recent event was focused on the topic of Industry 4.0. I

info

- winter 2019 - 25

BUSINE S S WOR LD – S TART- UP PROFILE

Chat 2.0 A chat app aimed at professional services addresses concerns about client data security and privacy, says Laurent Guyot, Director and Strategic CFO of Qwil Messenger

What is Qwil Messenger?

maintained, and business data kept secure, protected and

Mobile chat dominates the way we communicate. However,

hosted in specific jurisdiction(s) in line with global regulatory

whilst social chat apps may be appropriate for personal use,

requirements.

the risk and data protection issues are so high, that many firms have implemented policies explicitly forbidding staff from

Is email being replaced?

using them for business purposes but without providing a true

Socially, email died a number of years ago when it was

alternative. These actions are also often too little too late – just

replaced by chat. Chat is now the most popular form of digital

having those apps installed means the phone address book

communication with over 65 billion messages sent each

has already been sent to the US, without the consent of each

and every day. Business collaboration tools like Skype for

contact which could be a GDPR breach.

business and Slack have greatly improved internal business

This is the gap we are looking to fill. Qwil Messenger is a

communication but, with only one user type (ie. only staff). They

single app for everyone, allowing clients of multiple firms to

were not designed to extend to customers outside of the firm.

safely engage with their staff representatives within a branded

Everyone can see, chat and share with every other user on

space, fully controlled and coordinated by each firm. Every

these platforms which is not suitable for a business to client

aspect of our platform has been designed to meet the most

relationship.

stringent security and privacy requirements of the world's largest regulated firms.

How does the platform ensure GDPR compliance?

We designed our platform primarily for scale, with proprietary

What is your target market?

technology to deploy our servers to any cloud provider

If your firm has to ensure data protection and you engage

anywhere in the world. We compare ourselves to a wine cellar

externally (clients, vendors, candidates etc), then we would love

with thousands of bottles representing each company in a

to speak to you. Following our successful release with larger

specific country, compared to just having a large barrel in the

institutional businesses in the second half of 2018, we are also

US or Europe for all the data. GDPR creates the urgency to

excited to announce the launch of the Essentials offer for small

deploy solutions such as Qwil Messenger in Europe and global

and medium sized firms available directly from our website.

regulation is catching up. A common platform needs to cater for companies, regardless of location. This is what we have built.

How does this differ from Whatsapp?

Qwil Messenger looks and works just like your favourite social

How has support from Schroders helped your start-up?

chat app. We have actually been described as the ‘WhatsApp for

All three directors of Qwil Messenger had worked previously in

Professional Services’ by the Chief Digital Officer at Schroders

large corporate structures. We knew that it would be a learning

who supported us early on. However, this is where the similarity

process for both parties. The pace of a start-up is very different

ends. We are not about secrecy, we are about privacy, end to

than a large company like Schroders. But we have benefited

end security and allowing firms full ownership of their client

from strong support from the top, access to key professionals

data. To achieve the high standards required for professional

working on our side (rather than against us) and most important

firms, the app has been engineered from the ground up to

of all, our partnership resulted in the security sign off globally,

ensure each user’s identity is verified and trusted, their privacy

and Schroders taking a stake in our company. I

26 - info - winter 2019

R E PORT S & R E SE ARCH – BUSINE S S WOR LD

A selection of research papers and reports produced by Chamber member companies and partners

World Economic Forum: The Future of Jobs Report 2018 The Fourth Industrial Revolution is interacting with other socio-economic and demographic factors to create a perfect storm of business model change in all industries, resulting in major disruptions to labour markets. New categories of jobs will emerge, partly or wholly displacing others. The skill sets required in both old and new occupations will change in most industries and transform how and where people work. It may also affect female and male workers differently and transform the dynamics of the industry gender gap.

The Future of Jobs Report - September 2018 Available at: https://bit.ly/2xi2OQB

KPMG: Lifelong learning: Creating the change we need for the world we want This publication articulates the business and development case for prioritising investment in lifelong learning, illustrated with stunning statistics. It also introduces KPMG’s new corporate citizenship 2020 ambition ‘To inspire confidence and empower change through a global commitment to promoting and enabling lifelong learning’. In addition, the publication draws on the Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) Industry Matrix publication series (jointly prepared by KPMG and the UN Global Compact) to highlight shared value opportunities for six industries to advance SDG 4 on Education and Lifelong Learning, illustrated with company examples.

Lifelong learning: Creating the change we need for the world we want - January 2018 Available at: https://bit.ly/2GluVVZ

European University Association –Trends 2018: Learning and teaching in the European Higher Education Area The 2018 edition of EY’s UK Attractiveness Survey, as in previous editions, examines the evolving performance and perceptions of the UK as a destination for foreign direct investment (FDI). Results are based on an analysis of the IBM Global Location Trends database, which tracks those FDI projects that have resulted in the creation of new facilities and new jobs. The surveys are designed to help businesses make investment decisions and governments remove barriers to growth.

The report highlights an economy in transition, influenced by Brexit and the force of technological change, which is impacting on the mix of investment across sectors, project types and size. The importance of cities, transport infrastructure and industry mix amongst regions is emphasised.

Trends 2018: Learning and teaching in the European Higher Education Area - October 2018 Available at: https://bit.ly/2EfCb4F

info

- winter 2019 - 27

28 - info - winter 2019

A FOCUS ON EDUCATION & SKILLS

N

ew jobs require new skills. According to the World Economic Forum, the skills needed to perform many jobs will shift considerably – meaning that by 2022 workers will either need to tool-up or re-tool their skills to meet demand in a

range of sectors.

Technological advancement plays a huge role, of course. Data analysts, software developers, and social media specialists will be some of the job profiles increasing in significance.

Jobs requiring people skills will be important too, including customer service workers, and sales and marketing professionals.

This means that so-called 'soft skills' such as creativity, initiative and critical thinking will increase in value exponentially. So too will attention to detail, flexibility and complex problem-solving. New demand will also highlight the importance of emotional intelligence and leadership.

Parallel to this are major changes in global priorities around climate change, diversity and automation. Adapting to new business environments marked by significant shifts in the division of labour between humans and machines will be a particular test.

There is also a significant shift to freelance and flexible working, seen especially in younger entrants to the job market. Some estimate that between thirty and forty percent of all European workers will be self-employed within the next decade.

This Focus section explores how the education and skills sectors are responding to these changes, with insight and analysis from companies, schools and organisations working on new approaches to learning, up-skilling and new priorities in recruitment, employment and career advancement.

Our aim is to provide a critical and prescient take on the big issues in the rapidly evolving areas of education and skills training. I

info

- winter 2019 - 29

The new tool kit Terence Tse, professor at ESCP Europe Business School and Director of the Master in Digital Transformation Management and Leadership, details skills and competencies for tomorrow’s world

A

topic at the top of the agendas of businesses – and

... start with the right education today

many parents – is how to better prepare for the future

Sadly, today’s education system is in many ways not geared

of work. This attention is fully comprehensible as new

towards producing the right workforce of tomorrow. One

technologies are entering our business lives at breakneck

reason is we have no clear idea what job opportunities there

speed. While we welcome the benefits they bring, we are also

will be. According to an Institute of the Future report, as much

wary of the many jobs they could eliminate.

as 85 percent of the jobs that today’s learners will be doing in

Yet, this is nothing new: my research has shown that the arrival of the Internet has been steadily chipping away at white-

2030 are yet to be invented.

Even though this may be an overly pessimistic view, the

collar office jobs for the past 30 years. Now, the emergence of

current format of education may not be up to scratch. For

artificial intelligence (AI) and the Internet of Things (IoT) in all

instance, education still favours examinations. This approach

likelihood will continue, if not speed up, the disappearance of

may fit the needs of the Victorian times, but it is not likely to

office work.

be the best way for individuals to acquire the competencies

Future skills and competencies...

While many jobs will disappear, new opportunities will be created. The question is how to prepare for them. What kind of

needed in our immediate future. After all, soft skills and competencies are not easily measurable and assessable; examinations are ill-suited for the purpose. .

On the other hand, academic subjects are very often

skills will be essential for the ‘survival of the fittest’ in the next

treated as if they are in silos, effectively hampering the

ten to twenty years?

development of the ability to take a holistic view of the world

Drawing on seven recent studies, the table below summarises some of paramount skills and competencies.

and to combine unfamiliar and unconnected ideas.

This is why we at ESCP Europe Business School are

Perhaps not surprisingly, the emphasis on technical skills

launching a new programme called Master in Digital

or domain knowledge has lessened, with ‘soft skills’ playing

Transformation Management and Leadership, which takies

a much more prominent role. A recent Capgemini survey

a completely different approach to business education, and

highlighted soft skills as most in demand by organisations, and

promotes the skills and competencies necessary for the future.

are an increasingly important characteristic of a well-rounded

Education needs to make dramatic shifts and continuous

digital professional.

improvements. We as parents would also need to contemplate

Yet, while we can improve our negotiation skills and ramp

how we can best help our children to prepare for the future.

up our own personal brand via the right training, it seems

The future of work will remain at the top of our agendas in the

the only possibility to enhance competencies is through self-

years to come. I

motivation; the onus on developing these abilities always lies with ourselves. Very often, they are not something that are teachable and must be worked on through (plenty of) individual efforts.

SK IL L S • Persuasion/negotiation • Attention to detail • Complex problem-solving • Interpersonal skills • System thinking/co-ordination • Active learning • Broad-based knowledge • Personal brand cultivation

30 - info - winter 2019

C O MPETENC IES • Creativity/originality • Flexibility/entrepreneurial mindset • Emotional intelligence • Fluency of ideas • Perseverance/focussed/persistence/ tenacity • Social perceptiveness • Contextualised intelligence/recognition, understanding and acting on interconnections and feedback loops in socio technical settings

TOMOR ROW ' S WOR K FORCE – FOCUS

Education's next steps INFO speaks with Laurent Batut, Senior Consultant at Turenne Consulting, about changes in attitudes toward education and how the industry will adapt to a new generation of learners How are approaches to education changing?

From what I can see, new generations have a different approach to authority and hierarchy. They have a more horizontal view of society where fairness and respect are key values. This has an impact on the way they see teaching and learning at school and university. But it may also have repercussions on the job market. More and more new recruits are looking for meaningful jobs and careers. Collaborative and project based working appears to be more attractive to the new generation and, as the role of teachers will have to evolve, managers will need to adapt to a potentially more demanding workforce.

What is driving this change?

A more traditional vision of education establishes a very strict distinction between learners and teachers. What I can see now is that the boundaries between the two are being blurred somehow by new technologies, because every single learner

Companies are not prepared for the change in management that will be required to incorporate these new ways of working. But they do acknowledge that soft skills will be important

has in their pocket unlimited access to knowledge. Mobile technology is a big equaliser. The teacher’s role is not to bring

Is e-learning the solution?

knowledge anymore but increasingly to help students make

The problem with online education is that it requires self-

sense of it and navigate through it. A more traditional approach

discipline and a huge level of autonomy. It can be very

could be characterised as a more knowledge-based education

challenging. If you don’t want people to give up – and as an

whereas the more modern approach – and I’m not using that in

e-learning provider if you don’t build a business model on the

any positive or negative way – is more skill based.

number of people who give up to make it sustainable – you will have to supplement the e-learning with tutoring, whether

How is this skills-based approach to learning going to

it’s through email or through phone conversations, or virtual

translate to the workforce?

classrooms. Any successful online programme requires lots of

Our clients are unsure of what the future holds. Generally

people behind it. At the moment, industrialisation of this type of

speaking, companies want to be prepared for the changes

programme remains challenging.

that will be required to incorporate these new ways of working.

They all acknowledge that soft skills will be important. The

What is the place for e-learning in the education mix?

understanding of national and cultural contexts is a huge part

Blended learning will be key – meaning a mix of online and

of this for an increasingly mobile generation. When you deal

physical education or training. Exclusively online learning is

with soft skills, you have to take into consideration local habits

difficult in initial training, as sociability is an essential part of

and traditions – you don’t have the same attitude in Britain or

learning. Blended learning will be a different mix. You might

France, or Japan or South Africa.

have a majority of online modules, with shorter periods of time when you’re onsite or the other way round. And I would say that

Is this a facet of globalisation?

all institutions will have to use some kind of digital add-on to

We do live in a more integrated globalised world, but contrary to

what they do.

what was expected, this internationalisation underlines cultural differences. The more people move around, the more they

What other disruptions do you see?

are going to bit hit by those cultural differences. Intercultural

The great disruption will be the emergence of AI. AI may

understanding will be a key asset for future recruits. Schools

profoundly transform education. Differentiation and adaptation

that we work with try not to underestimate this cultural divide,

to different learner profiles – the way they learn, how quickly

especially when they have to get a diverse cohort of students

they learn on different levels – will become easier. It is still very

ready to work in any kind of environment.

hard to foresee all the implications of this new revolution. I

info

- winter 2019 - 31

Business School Trends The top business schools are preparing the next generation of leaders in new ways, says Julie PerrinHalot, Associate Dean of Grenoble Ecole de Management, and Professor Simon Mercado, Dean of ESCP Europe Business School London

T

en years ago fingers were pointed at business schools

digital pioneers by blending cutting edge management science

with accusations about their role as major players in the

with advanced digital pedagogy. The same is apparent with

financial crisis. A decade on and attention has shifted to

respect to executive education, where big U.S. schools such as

their capacity to promote higher, more responsible business

Columbia, MIT and Berkeley are leading with high impact on-

and to develop 21st century leaders.

line courses focused on the key domains of digital business

Here we look at five trends lines in what we identify as

strategy.

a leading group of international business schools often

The second thing the best business schools are doing is

associated with sector trends or advancements. This is not to

to promote a culture of innovative and entrepreneurial action

assume that innovation is coming only from inside that group,

such that graduates are prepared for what is sometimes called

but reflects the status and positioning of such schools – the

the ‘gig economy.’ ESCP Europe’s annual Jean-Baptiste Say

so-called ‘triple crown’ business schools - as being amongst the

Entrepreneurship Festival has become a long-term vehicle

sector’s finest institutions.

for start-ups and new venture creation, uniting participant

Five key trends

innovation with investors in an action-learning framework.

Incubators and hubs have become an industry norm, especially

The first thing the best business schools are doing is attuning

where business schools are embedded in public universities

themselves fully to the digitalization of business, economy and

and/or science parks.

society. Current actions are guided by an appreciation that the

Business school entrepreneurship is in evidence from

digital revolution is reforming business landscapes and that

promotion of entrepreneurship studies (and cultures) through

those that do not foster and develop their digital capability will

to different ways of engaging with learners and corporate

fail or fall behind.

partners. For example, at Grenoble Ecole de Management,

From research into the future of work and industry to the

gamification has become a means of working with students

introduction of new ‘digital solutions,’ business schools are

and companies to find solutions to the increasing complex

shaping the educational response to Industry 4.0. They are doing

challenges they are facing. The game created by GEM staff

this through a focus on digital leadership, big data, and frontier

called Tech It!© gets players to use fundamental innovation

technologies such as AI and Blockchain. Across the sector, we

management skills to determine the potential market value of

see an increasing number of specialised programmes such as

technologies and technology driven start-ups.

ESCP Europe’s MSc in Digital Transformation Management &

New educational strategies are also being designed to

Leadership, and Grenoble Ecole de Management’s Advanced

sensitize graduates to complex global realities and to equip

Master’s in Digital Business Strategy.

them to lead in a world marked by volatility, uncertainty,

MBA programmes are also being reshaped to place

complexity and ambiguity (VUCA). This links to the promotion of

emphasis on digital transformation processes, combined with

an open model of management science in which management

the adoption of the very same technologies under investigation.

is placed in full socio-political context and in which an emphasis

Although rates of adoption are uneven, business schools

is placed on inter-disciplinarity.

like IE Business School (Spain’s sector leader) are becoming

In practical terms, business as an academic discipline is

With a financial crash linked to pre-occupation with shareholder value and profound governance failings, the best business schools are investing heavily in education and research that promotes stakeholder value and good governance 32 - info - winter 2019

TOMOR ROW ' S WOR K FORCE – FOCUS

increasingly intersecting with liberal arts subjects, technology

hallmark of an educational experience designed to prepare

studies, international relations and political science to promote

managers for multi-locational business futures.

hybrid classes such as business and geo-politics that support

Grenoble Ecole de Management, follow corporate partners to

this overarching aim. The IE-Brown Executive MBA programme

their international implantations to set up focused executive

combines IE’s experience in the field of management

education courses designed to train and/or upskill local and

education with Brown’s reputation for excellence in the fields

expatriate employees. Again, accreditation standards and

of humanities and social sciences. Such emphases are meant

rankings criteria have worked to reinforce this trend.

to create leaders with broad and transversal knowledge,

A few, like

something seen as increasingly important in complementing

Cosmopolitan visions

the traditional depth of specialization. More broadly, leadership

The social shift towards responsible business and leadership

study and training is increasingly configured around notions of

also requires a mind-set in which managers are able to assess

agility, sense making, resilience and problem solving.

and prioritise the externalities of their actions in different socio-

The fourth trend rests with a re-examination of the values

cultural contexts and eco-systems. It requires an understanding

and orientations inherent in business and management

of the relationship between markets and people, and between

studies, most critically in the flagship MBA. With a financial

business, nature, and society. In this context, international and

crash linked to pre-occupation with shareholder value and

cross-cultural experience can be highly formative as well as in

profound governance failings, the best business schools are

developing what Santiago Iñiguez, (the former president of IE

investing heavily in education and research that promotes

Business School) calls the asset of ‘cosmopolitanism.’

Emergent

Exposure to foreign cultures and environments is

topics have included: values-based investment, corporate

associated with the development of cross-cultural skills and

responsibility, sustainability, and ethics.

stakeholder

value

and

good

governance.

Cleaner, greener

a more international consciousness underscored as being

business isn’t emerging because of this, but business schools

important attributes for future leaders. Our discussion of the

are driving research and enquiry that contributes positively

internationalization strategies of leading business schools

and their graduates are getting a “better business” education.

links here to the overwhelming evidence that students with

Accreditation standards and rankings criteria have shifted

international mobility experience find it easier to access work

to reinforce this trend and business schools have had to be

and to reach higher-level positions and salaries. This is linked

mindful of the critical attacks made on their historic promotion

directly to the development of important transversal skills

of failed leadership cultures.

(autonomy, communication, and understanding of others) as

Finally, the best business schools have continued to make

well as a strengthened ability to manage change and difference.

themselves open to international entrants and to promote

Future proofing education and graduate talent is far from

international mobility within and across programmes. Some

a science, but the sector is putting its imagination and capital

are e-exporting their educational offerings across the globe,

into major developments designed to develop leadership for

whilst others, like ESCP Europe, have developed multi-campus

the 21st century. I

models. Here international mobility and rotation becomes the

TOP T R EN DS IN HIGHER EDU C ATIO N > Digitisation

> Entrepreneurship

> Interdisciplinary learning

> Governance

> Internationalisation

info

- winter 2019 - 33

Tackling Challenges Head on The digital revolution and climate change are top of the agenda for schools, says Jean Tirole, 2014 Nobel laureate in economic sciences & Honorary Chairman of the Toulouse School of Economics

W

e live today in an era of great worldwide challenges: how can we manage the impressive digital revolution to benefit society and protect workers? How can we

control climate change to protect and respect our planet? How can we ensure that increasingly complex financial systems stay healthy and efficient? How can we safeguard generosity and reason against rising populism?

We at TSE take our duty to the new generation of top economists that will tackle these challenges very seriously, with the goal to train economists who will make our states and organisations more efficient, fair and sustainable.

Digital revolution The rapid development of digital technology has generated a fundamental transformation in the everyday life of citizens and organisations, significantly impacting consumer behaviour as they seize new opportunities and competition between companies as markets emerge, shift and change.

Through digital-focused degrees, we aim to equip graduates

At TSE, a strong team of digital economists are at the

with skills such as the ability to model firms’ strategic interaction,

forefront of current research into the digital economy, notably

understand the main determinants of the functioning of

via our Digital Center supported by Airbus, Samsung, Accord,

a market, perform a quantitative analysis of a market and

Orange, and many more major industry players. Serving as

evaluate the efficiency of regulatory and competition policies.

an ideas laboratory to build on the research models already developed over the past decades by TSE faculty, the digital

Climate change

center exerts intellectual leadership in the field, building new

Pollution,

analytical tools and suggesting new regulatory policies.

Mitigating and managing the impact on the planet of our

As emphasised by Doh-Shin Jeon, TSE professor specialised in digital competition and market strategies, ‘most of today’s

climate

change,

conservation

of

biodiversity:

ever-developing economies is a major challenge for both governmental authorities and industries worldwide.

digital giant companies including the GAFA [Google, Apple,

The issue is top on the international political agenda; the

Facebook, Amazon] are platforms.’ Platforms are therefore

UN climate ‘COP’ conferences regularly discuss and implement

studied with classic industrial organisation theory in mind,

plans to combat climate change, governments design public

as well as the concept of two-sided markets, a conceptual

policies such as taxes or emission trading schemes to

framework taught from scratch so that students can analyse

mitigate the negative impacts of air or water pollution, firms

industrial economy questions from this angle, where relevant.

launch green business strategies such as investments in

34 - info - winter 2019

TOMOR ROW ' S WOR K FORCE – FOCUS

As emphasised by Doh-Shin Jeon, TSE professor specialised in digital competition and market strategies, most of today’s digital giant companies including Google, Apple, Facebook, Amazon are platforms.

Platforms are therefore studied with classic industrial organisation theory in mind

cleaner technologies, product labelling or socially responsible

gas emissions, emission trading schemes, etc.). Quantitative

investments to improve their competiveness.

analysis tools are applied to natural resources to provide

All these decision-making platforms need top environmental

a strategic vision of how private decision-makers (firms,

economists to bring the best analysis and design the best

investors) can tackle environmental issues: innovation, green

mitigation policies. Our international Masters in Environmental

products labelling, socially responsible investment, provider

and Natural Resource Economics explores the pressing issues

relationships and environmental management system.

in energy and climate policy, ecosystem management, and

The Energy & Climate Center at TSE provides a platform

biodiversity; as well as essential concepts on cost-benefit

bringing together the top academic researchers in the field

analysis, valuation methods and dynamic modelling of

with industrial partners to exchange on the economics of

ecological issues.

energy and climate change, giving the opportunity to build new

Students who specialise in environmental economics or

analytical tools to address the major challenges we face. I

ecology and economics are able to evaluate environmental and economic impacts of regulatory policies (taxes, average

For more information: www.tse-fr.eu

T SE AT A G L AN C E > 2 400 students > 135 researchers > 30 associate professors > 100 PhD students > 381 visiting researchers > 249 seminars > 30 international conferences > 147 published articles

info

- winter 2019 - 35

Building a learning culture Addressing employability challenges requires innovative approaches to lifelong learning, say Alain Roumilhac, President of Manpower Group France, and Jean-Marc Tassetto, Co-founder of Coorpacademy

I

n a few years, job boards will be full

It is important to reflect the reality of how people learn, with training content always available remotely and at the learner’s convenience, as well as proven engagement techniques such as video and gamification

of roles for things like self-driving car engineer, blockchain developer, growth

hacker - none of which were job roles that existed even five years ago. And, as Artificial Intelligence (AI) and robotics move into our workplaces jobs have to change - and with it, the skills we need to remain relevant. Indeed, as few as 35 percent of current skills will still be relevant in five years, and soft skill-intensive occupations will account for two-thirds of all jobs by 2030 (World Economic Forum and Deloitte, respectively).

As a result of these seismic drivers

one of the top skills needed by all, while

reality of how people learn, with training

of employment change, it is becoming

complex problem solving is now rated as

content

imperative that everybody is prepared

the number one skill for 2020.

increasingly via mobile, and at the

to think about his or her long-term

always

available

remotely,

learner’s convenience, as well as proven

employability. In parallel, businesses that

Lifelong learning

don’t equip their workforces with the

Lifelong learning is vital to society

and

tools they need to survive will not be able

and businesses. Organisations need

shown us that playing stimulates curiosity

to stay at current level, shrinking or even

to accelerate their efforts to up-skill

and the desire to progress.

disappearing as disruptive new players

and re-skill employees – but they also

take over.

need to say goodbye to long, boring

modernise first generation e-learning by

e-learning sessions that are too general

creating a playful and congenial learning

to be personalised and really engaging

experience. Interestingly, when corporate

Clearly, we are living in a skills revolution,

to today’s learner. The good news is that

learning platforms are appropriately

where new skills emerge as fast as others

change is coming. A new generation of

designed to take full advantage of this

become obsolete. In such a context,

digital tools are plugging the gap.

salient fact, the percentage of learners

Skills revolution

engagement techniques such as video gamification.

Play

or

Neuroscience

interactive

has

experiences

the question of what skills and talents

They seek to personalise the learning

who engage in ‘battles’ (as on the

will be in greatest demand in our future

journey first, offering employees the

Coorpacademy platform, for instance)

economies has to be addressed. The

content

Constant

can reach 85 percent, something we

Manpower survey, for example, highlights

upskilling is something very personal and

think suggests that gaming speaks to

that nearly 30 percent of employers find

closely related to our daily job activities;

everyone.

that applicants lack the ideal in either

to be successful, a modern workplace

It has also been observed that

hard or soft skills, which makes it harder

learning experience should be well

learners are more engaged and efficient

to build an effective team with the

integrated with a job position and be

than their non-playing peers. Meanwhile

appropriate skill mix.

directly useful.

Coorpacademy platform clients report

they

really

need.

According to the World Economic

Microlearning is a very powerful way

that learners who play will easily watch

Forum, creativity is one of the top three

to make this happen and should be well

twice as many videos as non-players

skills workers will need, and also while

integrated into the learning experience,

and make it through three times more

robots may help us get to where we want

allowing the employees to look directly

chapters, for instance.

to be faster, they cannot yet be as creative

for the knowledge they need before a

as humans. Emotional intelligence, which

meeting, for example.

did not feature in the top 10 in their 2015 report has nonetheless become 36 - info - winter 2019

According

to

the

The verdict is clear: brands must build and nurture a continuous learning

global

analyst

Gartner, it is important to reflect the

culture now to allow their teams to thrive, adapt, and build the future together. I

TOMOR ROW ' S WOR K FORCE – FOCUS

The importance of soft skills An uncertain job climate means that recruiters are placing more emphasis on well-rounded candidates, says Christelle Bimar, UK Country Manager of Atlantis Consulting

S

oft skills will grow in importance for potential job

are becoming more important in workplaces characterised by

candidates, especially in light of the uncertainties around

diversity, often on an international or global scale.

the future work.

‘Most important in this regard are languages and cross

‘We don’t yet know what the jobs of the future will be

cultural skills,’ says Bimar. She notes the importance of

definitively, but we can see trends,’ says Christelle Bimar,

schools offering experience abroad and multi-cultural vision

UK Country Manager Atlantis Consulting, a recruitment and

as a gateway to build these skills early on, while established

consulting firm specialising in the oil & gas, energy and IT

employees may look for placements in overseas offices or job

sectors.

changes in an international context.

She lists growth areas and industries such as AI, Digitalization,

Bimar notes certain disparities at different levels of

Data Science, Information System & IT, Robotics & Automation.

seniority. Senior employees can lack the language skills of

Green energy, Environmental challenges, Sustainability, Health

the younger generation. Conversely, new entrants to the job

and wellbeing will also generate more roles.

market, despite the lack of experience, might already be highly

Because

the

exact

competent in languages. A

nature of the future of the

senior employee may have

workplace

better

is

unknown,

there is a growing trend

interpresonal

skills,

while a younger one may not.

towards the importance of

The larger point is that

transversal skills – skills like

these often intangible soft

languages and multi-cultural,

skills can be challenging to

communication,

flexibility,

demonstrate in interview or

agility, methodology, problem

recruitment scenarios. Bimar

solving, critical thinking, team

advises any job seeker to

player and team Management skills that can be replicated

think wisely about how they present themselves to a potential

across sectors.

employer from the point of view of promoting their soft skills.

‘A lot of jobs in the future don’t exist now,’ says Bimar, who

‘Showing that you have been educated, trained or

has worked across sectors in France, the UK and Hong Kong.

have experience working in teams, delivering on projects

‘That is why we are recommending developing soft skills for all

collaboratively is always good. You want to show that you are a

our candidates.’

team player and that you can solve problems.’

For Bimar, soft skills are a constantly evolving set of skills

In many ways, developing soft skills is a life-long, or career-

that relate directly to one’s ability and agility in the workplaces,

long, pursuit. In the workforce of the future, personal and

critical skills in an evolving workplace. They are differentiated

professional development will be prioritised in unprecedented

from purely technical skills, which will still be in demand, but

new ways. I

FINDING S FROM THE C B I S KILLS REPO RT In the time up to age 11, businesses believe the focus in schools should be on developing pupils’ core skills such as literacy and numeracy, self-management, and communication skills.

Schools and colleges are increasingly looking to develop young people more broadly in addition to their academic attainment, and businesses are positive about young people’s teamwork and attitudes to work.

Businesses remain concerned on skills of analysis and behaviours such as resilience and self-regulation.

Source: CBI/Pearson Education and Skills Survey 2017

info

- winter 2019 - 37

Students of tomorrow New insight from the Boston Consulting Group reveals stark inequalities in global education, led by J. Puckett, Senior Partner and Global Leader, Education Practice

W

e are facing a global learning crisis. The current state

projected to jump to nearly 17 percent by 2050 (1.6 billion).

of education is a long way from where we want it

As the population ages, career life spans are increasing

to be, and macro forces—such as advancements

as well. Among global workers today, 72 percent plan to keep

in technology and significant inequalities—are shaping what

working after retirement and 58 percent expect to enter a

learning will have to look like in the future.

new line of work to have more flexibility. In order to remain

Around the world, 38 percent of children leave primary school unable to read, write, or do basic maths. Twice as many girls as boys never start school; women make up two-thirds of

employable, the aging population needs continuous learning and opportunities to re-skill.

Millennials will comprise more than 1 of 3 adult Americans

the world’s illiterate adults. In conflict zones, 27 million children

by 2020 and 75 percent of the workforce by 2025. And 79

are not in school. Only 50 percent of refugee children are

percent of millennials expect to switch jobs six times or more

enrolled in school. Forty percent of employers cite difficulty

in their lives—a trend that will require them to ‘learn to learn’

recruiting employees equipped with the communication,

new skills in order to be successful.

critical-thinking, and collaborative skills needed for the 21st century workplace.

Technological change

Persistent inequalities Inter-country inequality remains a persistent issue. There is a gap of 32 percentage points between children completing

New technology, such as advanced robotics, 3D printing, and

primary school in low- versus high-income countries, and

AI, are resulting in new jobs; 85 percent of the jobs that today's

52 percentage points for secondary school. Intra-country

learners will be doing in 2030 haven't been invented yet. These

income inequality also remains a global concern, especially in

new jobs will require a broader set of skills than those we

OECD countries, where the gap between the rich and poor is

are currently teaching in our classrooms. Technology is also

increasing.

changing the way we engage with content. With the advent of

A high-income student anywhere in the world scores an

big data and predictive analytics, information is accessible—

average of 39 points higher on the PISA—an international

and more personalized to our needs and interests.

exam—than a low-income student. Other marginalized

Learning opportunities

groups, including women, children with disabilities, people in conflict areas, and refugees, also face significant challenges in

The world’s older population continues to grow at an

obtaining a quality education. I

unprecedented rate. Today, 8.5 percent of people worldwide

For more:

(617 million) are aged 65 and over. This percentage is

Boston Consulting Group, Future of Education

T H R EE K EY SYST E M GAPS TO OVERC O ME Perspective Gap – We need to change the way we think about when and where learning happens. The education ecosystem today is primarily focused on learning within schools—kindergarten through college—instead of a continuous process that extends from birth through multiple careers.

Capability Gap – We need to transform how and what we learn. Only pockets of the system are teaching the skills that are needed for the 21st century workplace.

38 - info - winter 2019

Additionally, lecture-based learning is still a primary mode of instruction today, despite the availability of new, innovative technology.

Agility Gap – We need to rethink how we support learning. Despite many efforts at reform, the education sector remains one of the most difficult in which to make sustainable local and systemic change. We need to create systems that are responsive to changing contexts and are wired for continuous improvement.

TOMOR ROW ' S WOR K FORCE – FOCUS

Building skills in primary & secondary school

François-Xavier Gabet, Head teacher at Collège Français Bilingue de Londres (CFBL) explains how they prepare students for future success

A

s a school, one of the worries we hear from parents is the future of jobs. How can we help

our students prepare for their future employment when the majority of jobs that will be available when they come of age haven’t even been invented yet?

And how do you help them acquire the necessary skill set for their career when it is expected to be drastically more varied?

It is an understandable concern for families, and this conundrum should not be solved by higher education alone. Although we believe that primary and secondary education should focus more broadly on preparing students to become citizens of the world rather than solely equipping them for their future jobs, we play a part in preparing pupils by helping them to develop competencies that can be useful in a wide range of careers, sometimes called soft skills: critical thinking, social skills, and intercultural communication.

Imagine growing up as a digital

Imagine growing up as a digital native and being told that you have to learn a substantial set of facts when all the answers are at most two clicks away

native and being told that you have to learn a substantial set of facts when all the answers are at most

social skills is our peer mediation programme, which saw 16

two clicks away. This is why we at Collège Français Bilingue de

students volunteer to resolve small conflicts between students.

Londres (CFBL) have taken the focus away from learning by rote

After 4 days of training, they are now dealing with disputes and

– although knowing facts is still important! We prefer to teach

rows between students on a daily basis, helping them reach a

students how to process information – how to look for it and

common ground through communication and active listening.

how to distinguish good sources from bad, like spotting fake

As a multicultural international school with over 30

news. We hope that this will give them critical thinking skills that

nationalities, CFBL teaches the values of tolerance and open-

are now more necessary than ever in the Information Age.

mindedness by making pupils aware of other languages and

We promote social skills such as leadership and responsibility

customs from a young age. Another crucial advantage that our

by encouraging students to become class president or House

students have is that they receive a truly bilingual and bicultural

prefect, and by forming student committees designed to focus

education, in French and in English. In addition to providing

on issues as wide-ranging as health and safety, catering, and

enhanced attentional control, studies have shown that bilingual

sustainability. Such committees have led to the creation of a

people have a greater ability to empathise and to see the world

sustainable water bottle for students in order to reduce plastic

from another point of view.

bottle usage. From coming up with the design to contacting

The truth is that nobody truly knows what lies ahead for the

suppliers and voting on the budget, the project was theirs from

children of today, but we think that the best we can do is to give

start to finish and demonstrated true leadership and teamwork.

them the tools and flexibility to face the challenges of tomorrow,

Another project that has been helpful in building students’

as wide-ranging and fast-changing as they may be. I

info

- winter 2019 - 39

A perspective on studying abroad Students do better in work if they spend part of their education immersed in a foreign language and culture, says Aisling Byrne, Director of INSEEC U. London

O

ver the last three decades, the benefits of studying abroad have been demonstrated unequivocally: confidence, maturity, language skills and a wider range

of career options flow from semesters and short stays in overseas academic institutions.

Furthermore, accumulating two or more ‘study abroad’ experiences hugely enhances adaptability and creativity in the workplace, increasing the attractiveness of students to future employers.

Inseec U, now France’s largest private higher education group, comprises 16 schools, including four French ‘Grandes Ecoles’ and an international university, 500+ academic partnerships, and dedicated campuses in London and San Francisco whose mission is to ensure that each of the 23,000 students enrolled in the group’s schools, has the opportunity to spend a period abroad.

The Inseec U perspective is that international campuses must offer not only complementarity with programmes in France, but must be innovative hubs, where teaching following

demonstrated in several recent academic papers, as well as

British models of experiential learning.

through student testimonies. Intra-personal networks are

These entail ‘facilitator’ and ‘delegator’ learning methods, where students are called on to question, debate and reach

grown and cultural preconceptions are tested.

Geopolitical and multicultural awareness, and crucially but

solutions through exploration and critical thinking, placing the

not exclusively, language skills, have been shown to guarantee

student at the heart of the classroom experience, through

overall higher incomes and greater job satisfaction.

tasks and projects, and exposing them to a pragmatic style of

The Inseec U philosophy of ‘deep education’ places

thinking which in itself reflects the professional environment

multiculturalism, multi-disciplinarity and the capacity for

they will encounter directly following their period of study.

independent thinking at the heart of its value system. With

The relationship between studying abroad and this

95 percent employability of graduates, the results speak for

enhancement of creative and thinking skills has been

themselves. I

BEN EFIT S O F LIVING AB ROAD

A

recent study sponsored by the World Economic Forum details the benefits of emersion in foreign cultures and countries. ‘Living abroad affects the fundamental structure of the self-concept by enhancing its clarity,’ according to Adam Hajo at Rice University in Texas who led the team of researchers. ‘In a world where living-abroad experiences are increasingly common and technological advances make cross-cultural travel and communication ever easier, it is critical that research keeps pace with these developments

40 - info - winter 2019

and seeks to understand how they affect people.’

As well as greater self-awareness, the academics outline other benefits associated with spending time abroad, including better psychological wellbeing, decreased stress and improved job performance. As automation and globalization are dominant themes, they conclude that having a clearer sense of self will probably become increasingly important.

Source: WEF Workforce and Employment

TOMOR ROW ' S WOR K FORCE – FOCUS

The value of experience The older generation can help to solve the skills gap, explains Cathy Wellings, Director of the London School of International Communication

T

he UK population is steadily aging; there are more people reaching retirement age than there are younger people entering the workforce to replace them.

Currently, 18 percent of the UK population is over 65 and this is set to rise to 25 percent by 2046 according to the National Office of Statistics. Increased outsourcing, a rise in automation and advances in artificial intelligence mean that some jobs are

Much is made of the need to attract, develop and retain the younger Millennial and Gen Z generations. However ignoring or sidelining the older workforce can mean missing out on first-rate talent

disappearing altogether and certain skills, particularly manual skills, are less in demand. However, the skills shortage remains

Some smart businesses already have the issue of older

a critical issue for UK employers, with productivity suffering

workers on their agenda but what can companies do to

and record numbers of unfilled vacancies. As well as a

maximise the potential of the older workforce?

shortage of industry-specific and digital skills, many employers struggle with a lack of softer business skills such as creativity,

> Be mindful of unconscious bias during the recruitment

communication and problem-solving.

process. Age discrimination is illegal in the UK but more

implicit forms of bias such as assuming a lack of digital

workforce and increasingly employees are choosing to work

skills or not wanting to manage someone older can be

beyond the State Pension Age. Yet many report being treated

harder to legislate against

The over 50s now account for nearly a third of the UK’s

unfairly or unfavourably in their workplace, for example, being side-lined, over-looked for a promotion or criticised for

> Offer flexible working options for those caring for elderly

being too ‘set in their ways’. Similarly, older workers who find

parents or wanting to ease gradually towards retirement

themselves out of work whether through taking a career break to raise a family or through redundancy typically find it much

> Review training formats and methodologies. Employees

harder to find employment again and reports of bias in the

across all generations require skills development but

recruitment process are not uncommon. Perhaps this goes

remember that the current focus on bite-size formats,

some way to explaining why, according to The Financial Times,

video content and social learning aimed at targeting the

the over-50s now make up 43 percent of those who start their

younger workforce won’t necessarily land well with older

own businesses in the UK.

workers

Much is made of the need to attract, develop and retain the younger Millennial and Gen Z generations and this,

> Provide opportunities for employees across generations to

understandably, is a priority for many organisations building

share knowledge and skills. Reverse mentoring, for

their talent pipeline. However, ignoring or sidelining the older

example, can be an excellent way of understanding each

workforce can mean missing out on first-rate talent: skills

other’s perspective and developing new skills

and knowledge accumulated over many years of experience.

Retaining employees with ten or twenty years of experience

> Re-evaluate the company culture as this is often a

in the business brings value that can’t be replicated through

question of employee mindset as much as of policies and

apprenticeships or graduate training schemes. Knowing the

processes. But that said, remember not to overlook age

business inside out, understanding the nuances of long-

when implementing diversity and inclusion initiatives

standing client relationships and the ability to draw on the experience of previous successes or failures can all add huge

Age is one of the key pillars of diversity yet often neglected

value. Similarly hiring candidates with extensive experience

when it comes to conversations about talent development

with competitors or in other industries can offer fresh

and retention. If the population continues to age as predicted

perspectives. A more balanced diversity of generations is also

companies need to maximise the skill and experience that this

important as a means of mapping the demographics of a

demographic can offer in order to help alleviate the skills gap –

company’s client base.

and sooner rather than later. I

info

- winter 2019 - 41

The diversity advantage Corporate diversity can lead to unexpected innovation and success, says Junko Takagi, Chair of Leadership and Diversity at ESSEC

It is clear that diversity is a fundamental part of competitiveness in the twenty-first century workplace

D

iversity is increasingly a priority for many businesses,

robust diversity programmes, including IBM, Sodexo, Accenture

despite the idea that it is perceived in different ways by

and Deloitte.

different companies.

The Chair's key activity areas include the development

‘It’s clear that companies want to send the right message,’

and production of academic research and case studies, the

says Junko Takagi, Chair of Leadership and Diversity at ESSEC

organisation of conferences, and a teaching program of six

business school. ‘But there are different approaches and

months for ESSEC students including a seminar series and

priorities.’

projects in cooperation with L'Oréal.

Her research group tackles this question and others by

It is clear to Takagi and her researchers that diversity is

promoting exchanges between researchers, business leaders

a fundamental part of competitiveness in the twenty-first

and students.

century workplace. ‘Diversity and leadership are in some ways

Now entering its eleventh year, the chair was founded in partnership with L’Oréal, Air France and the Deloitte Foundation.

For the past four years, they have worked exclusively with L’Oréal.

inextricable,’ says Takagi. ‘It is about a change in mindset and the encouragement of critical thinking.’

In this sense diversity can also lead to innovation. ‘Diversity is also about cognitive complexity; it is about raising new

The French beauty giant attributes diversity and inclusion

awareness in often counter intuitive ways,’ says Takagi. ‘Bringing

as a key factor in their success and in the wellbeing of their

in a perceived external element is the easiest way to create new

employees. The policy they developed includes three global

pathways and invent new products and ideas.’

priorities: reaching gender equality, including persons with

Takagi has also identified that diversity can positively impact

disabilities, and reflecting the diversity of society.

job performance.

What is diversity?

diversity effectively and to foster a workplace where inclusion is

In the corporate context, diversity was once narrowly viewed

central to the managerial and working culture.

On a practical level the question is often how to achieve

as a project to encourage more women into senior positions.

Successful implementation requires buy-in from top

It now encompasses all aspects of the business, from entry

managers, with L’Oréal CEO Jean-Paul Agon often cited as

level employees to senior management on the basis of gender,

an example of effective leadership in promoting a diversity

sexuality, disability and ethnic background.

mandate. ‘Their approach is not top down, it’s a departure from

‘It’s not simply about meeting CSR targets,’ says Takagi.

the traditional French perspective,’ says Takagi. ‘If you move

‘Companies need to understand and value why they should

away from this management style, success can be more easily

encourage and support a more diverse working culture.’ She

adopted and spread across the business.’ I

cites several examples of companies which have developed

42 - info - winter 2019

TOMOR ROW ' S WOR K FORCE – FOCUS

Toward economic peace A new centre of study challenges the idea of hyper-competition and individualism at the heart of how we do business, says Dominique Steiler, Head of the Center for Economic Peace, Mindfulness and Wellbeing at Work at Grenoble Ecole de Management

T

he words peace and economy are rarely associated.

towards customers, cooperation with suppliers, permanent

Yet, if we want peace and harmony to prevail in a

dialogue with co-workers and the implementation of social

society, in a country, or even in the whole world, we

responsibilities. In doing so, it not only establishes trustful

cannot underestimate the role of the economy.

In 2010, a group of business leaders contacted me to fund

relationships with all stakeholders, but also contributes to their self‑fulfilment.

the Grenoble Ecole de Management's Center of Economic

This way of thinking about economic peace leads to a

Peace, Mindfulness and Wellbeing at Work, in order to come up

concern for the flourishing of all stakeholders. If such an idea

with new ways of doing business together that would support

is difficult to put into practice with one’s colleagues in the same

social peace.

company, it is even harder when it comes to the flourishing of

The motivation behind this was clearly outlined. If we carry

customers, suppliers or especially, one’s competitors.

on with the current model, we are going to destroy each other.

The challenge is as simple as it is essential: to transform a

We are convinced that societal responsibility, wellbeing and

model that is undoubtedly generating wealth and substantial

the environment are major issues in our activities, but we don’t

suffering into a new economic model that can create both profit

know how to address them, other than with words.

and is committed to the common good.

We are all looking for miracle cures against the damage of

Today, six years after its creation, the research group has no

hyper competition, but without really wanting to ask the key

equivalent and is still supported by the majority of the founding

question: what should our profits really be used for, and what in

and pioneering companies of this emerging theme. In today's

our profits generates suffering?

world, every business school must be developing education for

Economic Peace is a commitment to creating shared wealth.

the talents of tomorrow. I

It is expressed through respect for competitors, transparency

ECON OMIC PEAC E AWARDS In May 2019, the first Economic Peace Awards will be awarded by the Grenoble Ecole de Management.

They will highlight and celebrate those who embrace this paradigm shift, those who contribute to this

positive revolution, whatever their field of activity, their hierarchic level or the size of their organisation.

Under the aegis of an honorary President, these awards will bring together a multidisciplinary jury of

leaders, politicians, scientists and philosophers. Their common belief: the aim of businesses can only be fully achieved in a balanced and mutually profitable interaction with its ecosystem.

info

- winter 2019 - 43

Help at the top Coaching is essential for the success of top executives, says Ludovic de Montille of Visconti Partners, a consultancy aimed at helping CEOs develop in their role

T

aking the top job in any company

relationship between the CEO and

– and very often have – benefitted

– from start-up founder to blue

his coach is part of the educational

from coaching relationships though

chip CEO – requires learning

process,’ says de Montille. ‘And it is

the practice is not often publicised.

a range of new skills; increasingly in

fundamental to creating value in the

According to de Montille, it is much

the US, France and the UK this crucial

company.’

more common to find coaches at the

programme of career development is

top level of business in the US and in

done by working with a professional

Top coach

coach.

According to de Montille, some of

have been traditionally slower to

the main challenges a CEO will face

welcome help.

According to Ludovic de Montille,

the UK, whereas French counterparts

coaching top executives is best done

when starting in the job include having

by experienced ex CEOs, someone

to adjust quickly to new cultural

typologies of CEOs,’ says de Montille.

who knows the ins and outs of the

environments and teams.

‘Some can over-estimate their abilities

CEO role intimately and can act in full

‘The risk is always that you will miss

‘It comes down to different

but more often, as nobody is perfect,

confidentiality and independence.

something important for too long,’ says

they just wish to hide their area of

‘With all the difficulties and

de Montille. A good coach is someone

discomfort. Or they just do not want

challenges that you will face in the job,

who can foresee these challenges and

to share their concerns with anyone as

you need someone you can fully trust

help you imagine new ways of working,

they believe it will be a massive effort

to help you develop yourself, save time

including driving new managerial or

to progress. In fact, sharing concerns

on the learning curve and reduce the

communication techniques. Crucially a

is a relief and progressing with some

risk for the company, says de Montille,

coach will reassure the new Executive

support is more of a pleasure than

a former Executive Chairman of BNP

that they are doing well.

an effort.’

Paribas in the UK.

‘In that sense a top coach is like a

‘In the US most professional

sporting coach – someone who’s been

investors strongly recommend their

Partners, match-makes coaches for

in your position sometime ago, who can

CEOs to be coached as they know this

CEOs in seven European countries

positively challenge you to broaden your

will reduce their risk and create value

and across a range of contexts, from

skills and horizons, someone who is in

for the company. The best CEOs are

newly-hired executives to established

your corner and will help you improve

the ones who are constantly looking

ones, and includes help for executives

your effectiveness quickly.’

to improve, they know it is part of their

The 8-year-old consultancy, Visconti

involved in periods of significant transition in their business or career.

‘The quality of the peer to peer

Lifelong learning Even the most seasoned CEOs can

job, they are self-confident enough to monitor their ego and have plenty of energy.’ I

T H E CE O C HALLENGE Ludovic de Montille of Visconti Partners, outlines four typical reasons why CEOs need to develop their skills with the help of an experienced coach.

1.

2.

No one is born as an executive. There is no school that can teach you how to become a top CEO. You learn on the job and can benefit massively from someone else's experience.

Having final responsibility means that you are alone in key moments. It is crucial therefore to develop ways of managing this psychological loneliness and reducing the risks and subjectivity that come with it.

44 - info - winter 2019

3. Typically, every five years or so CEOs lose their motivation. Finding ways of leaving or rebounding require a new vision, distance and experience.

4. ‘The job is never finished.’ Many executives leave the office every day with this discouraging feeling.

Time management and self-protection in the interest of the company are two crucial skills that need sharpening.

TOMOR ROW ' S WOR K FORCE – FOCUS

Coaching and mentoring in education The helping hand of a coach or mentor is an invaluable resource for career development, says Kady Doumbia, Managing Director of the education and career consultancy King Stage

U

niversities and business schools value the importance of career development for students and

graduates, and many have implemented career coaching and career management modules as part of their programmes.

The aim for these modules is to encourage

student’s

global

career

focus and future leadership capability.

Coaching can offer career advancement opportunities, higher levels of career maturity and greater potential for job satisfaction.

The strength of a mentoring and coaching programme in higher education is to teach students and graduates how to create inspiring and transformational environments in their future workplaces.

We all know that a successful career is

Any robust career management programme must include learning about local and international work cultures, work regulations, job application processes, and ways to promote themselves on their CV and online media

a crucial objective of every student. It is therefore imperative to give them access

experience is another step in the overall

students with the ability to make logical

to methods that can enhance their

development of skills and experiences.

decisions which they may be required to

potential.

It is necessary that a candidate finds a

take in the workplace.

job that can help them learn about the

Starting a career The first thing students need to learn is

the career management courses must

Global employment opportunities

what a career entails and what it means

also include training for using different

Many young people decide to study

to advance and manage their career.

job search methodologies effectively,

and work abroad because overseas

They need to have a good career plan.

knowledge

recruitment

experience broadens their horizons and

With multiple careers and international

selection practices and job market

enhance their career prospects. Many

businesses in view, students are not

requirements.

come to London because it is one of the

field they are aiming to enter. That’s why

only able to choose a career that

of

different

top international business cities and is

matches their interests and ambitions,

Developing skills

but also learn the procedures involved

Clearly, students must have the necessary

Another purpose of coaching is to

in working in an international business

skills to succeed in the workplace. Career

broaden the students and graduates’

environment.

full of career and business opportunities.

programmes are therefore designed to

perspectives and outlook on career

management

incorporate different management skills

opportunities around the world. The

programme must include learning about

and techniques, such as organisation

learners will be made aware of the

local and international work cultures,

and communication that the students

challenges and opportunities present,

work

will need in the future. These courses

and the evolution of some industries

also

career

in relation to the needs in those areas.

themselves through their CV and online

change and steps to manage unforeseen

They will then be able to make better

media.

changes well. A programme which

decisions in choosing the place to work

includes all these aspects will provide

or to start a business. I

Any

robust

career

regulations,

processes,

and

job

ways

application to

promote

In addition to career plans, work

cover

impediments

to

info

- winter 2019 - 45

AI in HR The practice of using machine learning and algorithms to select the best job candidates is a work in progress, says Michael Segalla, Professor of Management at HEC Paris

M

ost people want a successful

A researcher at Columbia University found that machine learning identified job candidates who were more likely to pass interviews and receive a job offer

algorithms that can help HR professionals

Traditionally we asked for advice from

accept job offers when extended, more

algorithm is not ethical, meaning if

our friends, sometimes our colleagues,

productive once hired as employees, and

companies are not using it as a tool for

our boss, or the HR department. Now,

less likely to show evidence of competing

good, then this kind of technological

advice might come from an online

job offers during salary negotiations.

disruption will certainly earn a very bad

career.

Whether

they

are

just starting out, a mid-level

manager looking for a transition to the next level, or a senior executive looking at the calendar and calculating how much time is left to get to that corner office, they still need good information to make a good decision.

application or even by a humanoid robot.

Interestingly,

the

study

found

guide the career development of their firms’ employees.

The wider point about AI in HR and career development is that it is a tool.

Like a hammer, which can be used to effectively hang a picture on your wall – or give your thumb a large bruise, AI is a tool to help people. If the underlying

reputation.

Welcome to the world of big data,

that these results were true for ‘non-

However, used in ethically proper

predictive analytical algorithms, and

traditional, particularly candidates who

ways, AI will certainly usher in an exciting

AI, and its impact on HR and career

graduated from non-elite universities,

new era in the world of work. I

management. Pundits claim that this

who lack job referrals, who lack prior

technical disruption will deliver huge

experience,

benefits to employees by reducing bias

atypical and who have strong non-

and helping people find their dream

cognitive soft-skills.’ These are likely to

jobs. Companies will benefit by being

be the job candidates often overlooked

able to attract and keep the best people.

by human recruiters.

It is indeed an exciting time in the sector.

However, the implications of using

whose

credentials

are

Data bias

predictive analytic statistical techniques,

The importance of this finding should not

combined with extensive personal data

escape us. Amazon was widely criticised

recorded by companies about their

for developing recruitment AI using the

customers and employees, can also

thousands of CVs it received over the

spark dystopian fear across a broad

years. These were typically sent by very

spectrum of people.

highly educated men. The algorithm ended up actively discriminating against

AI vs human

female job candidates. (We should

The use of AI in recruitment and

note here that this was a machine

promotion begs the question:

does

learning programme, no actual human

artificial intelligence deliver better HR

programmer entered instructions to

results than human intelligence?

penalize female job candidates.)

Professor Bo Cowgill, a researcher

The Columbia researcher used ‘noisy

at Columbia University, published the

historical data’ that resisted codifying

results of a CV screening experiment

existing

using

highly

Amazon used its focused – and biased

productive job candidates. He found

– data. Done correctly, AI helps humans

that machine learning identified job

avoid the inconsistent decision-making

candidates who were more likely to pass

inherent in human judgement.

algorithms

to

identify

interviews and receive a job offer.

biases

Commercial

into

the

vendors,

algorithm.

such

as

Cornerstone On Demand, use these They were also more likely to 46 - info - winter 2019

techniques to build career management

DIGITAL PERC EPTIO NS •

Social network contacts are not considered effective sources of information for jobs

• Both younger and older, lower level, employees do not fully embrace using digital tools and personal data during recruitment and performance management • Senior level managers approve of using digital tools that are not ‘too invasive’ • About half of respondents believed AI career management tools would give good results while the other half thought otherwise

TOMOR ROW ' S WOR K FORCE – FOCUS

Ghost in the machine Raymond Silverstein, Partner & Head of Employment at Browne Jacobson LLP, explores the use of automated data processing in recruitment

A

utomated data processing tools,

Algorithms should remove human error and bias from the process, significantly reduce the risk of missing top talent, and materially increase diversity in the workplace

including algorithms, are being used to screen job applications

and evaluate personality tests to the extent that, according to a recent paper in the Harvard Business Review, almost 75 percent of candidates are being filtered out before a human eye sees them. According to Undercover Recruiter, new technology is expected to replace 16 percent of HR jobs within

Deeper Data

and ‘captured’. Despite efforts to raise

10 years.

Using algorithms can enable greater

the ‘consciousness’ of the program it

access to data which can yield improved

continued to downgrade applicants

insights for decision makers; both in

who had attended all-female schools

Algorithms have existed for centuries,

assessing the best candidates and

and whose hobbies indicated they were

referring to a set of instructions used

identifying talent for head-hunting. Data

female.

to carry out a task. The contemporary

sources may include LinkedIn, academic

idea of the computer algorithm takes

institutions and professional bodies;

the process and complexity to the next

rather than relying on HR professionals

Equality-proof technology

level. In the context of recruitment,

to trawl through a candidate’s social

There are significant savings to be made

an employer can use an algorithm to

media.

from using these technologies in the

What is an algorithm?

screen applicants according to a range

recruitment process. Notwithstanding

of criteria: particular qualifications,

Unilever

specific experience, or academic

Unilever is a prime example of an

coldly transactional, the approach is

affiliations – and do this in both vast and

organisation embracing automated

particularly attractive to organisations

intricate ways.

data processing to recruit, having

that face a competitive job market

put 250,000 candidates through an

where the vacancy is for a relatively

algorithm-driven selection process

straightforward role and too many

During large recruitment drives, it is

involving gamified psychometric testing

overtly un-appointable applicants are

estimated that recruiters will spend

and video interviews before any direct

coming forward.

6 seconds considering a CV. This

human interaction. Unilever estimates

means the person sifting applications

to have generated a £1m ROI in the first

ideally, remove human error and bias

will apply some criteria to identify

few months of using the system, with 80

(conscious and unconscious) from

quickly the applicants to progress,

percent of suggested candidates judged

the process. This would significantly

which is often based on their personal

as good hires.

reduce the risk of missing top talent

Quality v quantity

preference, not necessarily the criteria

that the programs may be seen as

In addition, algorithms should,

and materially increase diversity in the

set for the role. Human involvement

Bias in, bias out

is subjective and inefficient with the

It is not without risks. Take Amazon’s

bringing major benefits to hirer and

result heavily influenced by how

recent decision to scrap its AI recruiting

hiree.

‘attractive’ an application is perceived

program because it discriminated

to be rather than the quality of the

against female candidates. The program

demonstrates, these technologies are

applicant. Technology can screen the

was coded to assess applicants by

in their infancy and currently risk being

application more quickly, allowing the

observing job applications made to

more discriminatory than a human

human element to focus on the most

the company over the previous 10

process. Whether coders can develop

‘appointable’ candidates.

years. As most came from men, the

reliably equality-proof programs is a

software preferred applicants who

contentious subject. Hirers, proceed

used ‘male’ verbs including ‘executed’

with caution. I

workplace by hiring ‘out of the mould’

As Amazon’s experience

info

- winter 2019 - 47

Freelance on the rise More workers are opting for flexible and project-based working, says Jean-Charles Varlet, CEO of Crème de la Crème

T

he European workforce will become more independent, as the numbers of workers opting

for self employment is set to grow exponentially in the coming years.

Jean-Charles Varlet, CEO of Crème de la Crème, a platform to connect freelancers with companies on a project by project basis, estimates that roughly thirty percent of the workforce will be freelance by 2030.

‘Recent reports suggest that fifty percent of the US work force will be freelance by 2020-25,’ says Varlet.

‘Europe is developing more slowly in this respect, but the trend towards independent and flexible working is clear.’

According to Varlet, eighteen to thirty five-year-olds are most likely to adopt freelance working, and especially those who are the most educated.

The project has to be important to them on a personal level and meaningful in the wider sense of society. Increasingly, they want to have more impact on the world around them

‘Careers are less linear. People don’t want to be in the same company for twenty years.’

The main drivers of this change are

project work in the morning, learning

‘But if you are working for a big

and development in the afternoon and

IT firm, you can’t do that, you can’t in

twofold: technological disruption and an

networking in the evening. For the more

effect get a market rate for your work or

evolution of mindset.

than 10,000 freelancers on Crème de

expertise. That was a big frustration that

la Crème's books, this flexibility is also

led many in IT to go freelance.’

It is no secret that technology has made it easier to communicate and to work in more dynamic and

central to their wellbeing.

A strong value system is also in

Varlet advises that networking is intrinsic to success in the world of

de-centralised ways. But technology

place when it comes to selecting work.

freelance work. ‘In addition to your work,

has also evolved to a point where

According to Varlet, the primary concern

you have to be a bit of a salesperson.

the average worker has an array of

of the average freelancer is finding

This can be difficult for some, but

powerful tools at their disposal, and can

projects that resonate personally.

it is clear that word of mouth and

take on jobs that might have required

‘They want meaning. The project has

specialised software or hardware in the

to be important to them on a personal

past.

level and meaningful in the wider sense

The change in the attitude away

recommendations are crucial to getting to work on the projects that you want.’

His second piece of advice is to

of society. Increasingly, they want to

develop a process of lifelong learning.

from traditional working arrangements

have more impact on the world around

‘Always be learning the new thing, the

has evolved from a parallel wish for

them.’

new skill. Take time to develop your

more flexibility. ‘It’s a change that we

Another perceived benefit is control

have seen with millennials, especially

over what they can charge, depending

since 2010,’ says Varlet. ‘More and more

on the sector. Experts in the IT field, for

people are rejecting the 9-to-5.’

example, can name their price in the

The average workday could include

48 - info - winter 2019

current market.

knowledge and your skills. This is the best way to stay in demand.’ I

THE WORLD IS CHANGING FASTER THAN EVER BEFORE. OUR SCHOOL PREPARES CHILDREN FOR THE 21st CENTURY.

An all-through independent co-educational school where students are educated in a challenging, innovative and international environment.

ONE SCHOOL, TWO PROGRAMMES EXCELLENCE

CREATIVITY

INTEGRITY

COMMUNITY

English International Programme for English speakers Bac Français Bilingue for French speakers

OPEN MORNING, REGISTER ONLINE: SAT 2 MARCH 2019

• • • • • •

www.lyceeinternational.london or book a private visit

Outstanding exam results and university destinations IB Diploma Programme candidate school* Full immersion bilingual teaching in Primary Modern learning with a global perspective Rich after-school programme Beautiful campus in London only 15 minutes away from Baker Street

* Lycée International de Londres Winston Churchill is a candidate school for the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme. This school is pursuing authorization as an IB World School. IB World Schools share a common philosophy - a commitment to high-quality, challenging, international education - that we believe is important for our students. Only schools authorized by the IB Organization can offer any of its four academic programmes: the Primary Years Programme (PYP), the Middle Years Programme (MYP), the Diploma Programme (DP), or the Career-related Programme (CP). Candidate status gives no guarantee that authorization will be granted.

admissions@lyceeinternational.london

www.lyceeinternational.london

+44 (0)20 3824 4906

CULTURE – WHAT'S ON A SELECTION OF RECOMMENDED CULTURAL EVENTS

T H E N AT I O N A L GA L L ERY, LO N D O N Lorenzo Lotto Portraits © Per gentile concessione delle Gallerie Nazionali di Arte Antica di Roma, Palazzo Barberini. Foto di Mauro Coen

Uncover the symbolism and psychological depth of Lotto’s Renaissance portraits.

Celebrated as one of the greatest portraitists of the Italian Renaissance, Lorenzo Lotto uniquely portrayed a cross section of middle-class sitters, among them clerics, merchants, and humanists.

Lotto depicted men, women, and children in compositions rich in symbolism and imbued with great psychological depth. The prominent addition of objects which hinted at the social status, interests, and aspirations of his subjects added meaning to each work. I On now until 10 February 2019 / Admission free

Lorenzo Lotto, Virgin and Child with Saints Jerome, George, Sebastian, Nicholas of Bari, Anthony Abbott and Catherine of Alexandria, 1524, Oil on canvas, 98 × 115 cm. Galleria Nazionale d'Arte Antica di Palazzo Barberini, Rome

TAT E B RI TA I N, LO N D O N Edward Burne-Jones One of the last Pre-Raphaelites, Edward Burne-Jones brought imaginary worlds to life in awe-inspiring paintings, stained glass windows and tapestries.

This exhibition – his first solo show at Tate since 1933 - charts Burne-Jones’s rise from an outsider with little formal art training to one of the most influential British artists of the late 19th century.

With over 150 objects, it will bring together major works from across his career for the first time in generations. Highlights include some of his best loved works, such as his huge paintings telling the dreamlike fairytale of Sleeping Beauty, wall-filling tapestries and

©Estate of Roger Perry

©Photographer Roger Perry

his remarkable drawings. I On now until 24 February 2019 / Tickets available from £18

Andy Warhol at the Graham Piano, 1975, Victoria and Albert Museum

50 - info - winter 2019

The Graham Piano, painted wood 1879/80, private collection

CULTUR E – WHAT ' S ON

SC I EN C E M USEU M , LO N D O N The Sun: Living with our Star Discover the incredible story of our closest star—the Sun—

Bask in sunlight on an indoor beach, try on historic

through hands-on experiences, unique objects, and stunning

sunglasses in a digital mirror, and watch the Sun rise around

imagery.

the world on a huge illuminated display as you explore the

From 3,000-year-old artefacts to upcoming space missions

fascinating story of humankind’s relationship with our closest

and even a nuclear fusion reactor, our new exhibition takes you

star. I

on a visual, action-packed journey that brings the science of the

On now until 6 May 2019 / Tickets available from £15

image courtesy of NASASDO and the AIA, EVE and HMI science teams

Sun to life.

Coronal mass ejection from the Sun

The original orrery, 1712

VI C TO RI A A N D A L B ERT M USEU M , LO N D O N Videogames: Design/Play/Disrupt This exhibition delves into one of the most significant design fields of our time, investigating the work of groundbreaking designers, creative player communities and the critical conversations that define the medium today. I On now until 4 February 2019 / Tickets available from £18

© Hello Games

This exhibition provides a unique insight into the design process behind a selection of groundbreaking contemporary videogames. Design work, including concept art and prototypes, feature alongside large-scale immersive installations and interactives.

No Man Sky, game screenshot

info

- winter 2019 - 51

CULTUR E – WHAT ' S ON

ROYA L AC A D E MY O F A RTS, LO N D O N The Anatomy Professor. Doctors, Death and Dining at the RA © Royal Academy of Arts, London; Photographer: Paul Highnam

Celebrating 250 years of the Royal Academy Schools, this display introduces the teachers who brought bodies, bones and brains into the artist’s studio, and made anatomy an essential part of their training.

The pioneering anatomist William Hunter was known to bring bodies – usually those of executed criminals – into the Schools for dissection, inviting art students to examine in great detail how the body fits together.

In doing so, Hunter set the foundations for 250 years of anatomical teaching, and left a legacy of important anatomical art works that the RA holds today. I From 18 January 2019 until 17 March 2019 / Admission free Left: Portrait of Dr William Hunter, Mason Chamberlin RA, 1769, Oil on canvas, Royal Academy of Arts Right: Écorché figure, unidentified maker 1771, Plaster cast, Royal Academy of Arts

I M PERI A L WA R M USEU M , LO N D O N Moments of Silence Moments of Silence is an innovative and immersive installation

November 2017. Predominantly collected from around the

exploring the origins, history and future of remembrance

UK, the recordings include a wide-ranging variety of two

rituals. Commissioned by IWM and created by the Tony and

minute silences, from the first ever recorded silence at the

Olivier Award-winning artists 59 Productions, the installation is

1929 Cenotaph Remembrance Service to present day silences

part of IWM’s Making a New World season.

at Everest Base Camp and HMS Ambush, an Astute Class

Central to the installation are a series of twelve atmospheric

Submarine. I On now until 31 March 2019 / Admission free

©IWM

©Photo Will Weisner

‘silences’, a number of which were recorded at 11am on 11

Left: Moments of Silence, IWM London, created by 59 Productions Right: Installation view of Moments of Silence, IWM London, created by 59 Productions 52 - info - winter 2019

LIFE S T YLE – BOOK S

THESE BOOKS, RECENTLY PUBLISHED IN ENGLISH, WERE SELECTED BY THE FRENCH INSTITUTE IN THE UK

ADELE

HEAR OUR DEFEATS

by Leïla

by Laurent

Slimani Published by Faber & Faber Translated by Sam Taylor Original title: Dans le jardin de l’ogre

Gaudé

Published by Europa

Editions Anderson Original title: Ecoutez nos défaites Translated by Alison

Adèle appears to have the perfect life. A respected journalist, she

A French intelligence officer, Assem, is tasked with tracking

lives in a flawless Parisian apartment with her surgeon husband

down a former member of the U.S. Special Forces suspected

and their young son.

of drug trafficking during the War in Afghanistan. En route to

But beneath the veneer of ‘having it all’, Adèle is bored – and

Beirut he shares a night with Miriam, an Iraqi archaeologist,

consumed by an insatiable need for sex, whatever the cost.

who is in a race against time to save ancient artifacts across the

Struggling to contain the twin forces of compulsion and desire,

Middle East from the destruction wreaked by ISIS.

she begins to orchestrate her life around her one night stands

Woven into these two forceful, gripping storylines are stylish

and extramarital affairs, arriving late to work and lying to her

meditations on humankind’s bellicose history: Hannibal’s failed

husband about where she’s been, until she becomes ensnared in

march on Rome and the burning of his fleet on the waters of the

a trap of her own making. I

Mediterranean; Grant’s pursuit of the Confederates into rural Virginia; Robert E. Lee’s surrender at Appomattox Courthouse; and Emperor Haile Selassie’s swift retreat from Ethiopia. I

DOWN TO EARTH

NIGHT

by Bruno

by Bernard

Minier Published by Hodder & Stoughton Translated by Alison Anderson Original title: Nuit

Latour

Published by Polity Translated by Catherine

Porter atterrir — Comment s'orienter en politique ?

Original title: Où

On the hunt for a killer, Detective Kirsten Nigaard believes

The present ecological mutation has organised the political

the signs point to none other than Julian Hirtmann, a serial

landscape for the last thirty years. This could explain the deadly

murderer on the run. She turns to Toulouse cop Martin Servaz,

cocktail of exploding inequalities, massive deregulation, and

who has a painful personal history with Hirtmann. Servaz

conversion of the dream of globalisation into a nightmare for most

hunted the elusive killer for many years until the trail went cold.

people.

Now they have a chance to bring him to justice at last. Soon, the

Latour identifies an urgent need to define politics as what

pair find themselves in a terrifying cat-and-mouse chase, not

leads toward the Earth and not toward the global or the national.

knowing who is chasing whom, and which of them might pay

Belonging to a territory is the phenomenon most in need of

the ultimate price. I

rethinking and careful re-description; learning new ways to inhabit the Earth is our biggest challenge. Bringing us down to earth is the task of politics today. I

info

- winter 2019 - 53

Taylor Wessing Portrait Prize

INFO publishes a selection of the winning photographs from the Taylor Wessing Photographic Portrait Prize, organised in conjunction with the National Portrait Gallery

T

his is the eleventh year of the Taylor Wessing Photographic

who has carefully constructed the image. This is true of all the

Portrait Prize and we are delighted to have seen our

photographs selected, whether the high resolution shot of a

association with the Gallery develop into one of the most

movie star or the artfully staged image taken on film, and is what

important photographic prizes in the world.

makes this competition so fascinating.

As life becomes increasingly digital, we are subject to

We are proud to support the artists through our relationship

continuous messaging and a bombardment of information

with the National Portrait Gallery. This is a long-standing

and imagery. The photographs selected for the prizes this

association and it’s been a genuine pleasure to work so closely

year possess truly striking qualities that stand out among that

with them this year. I look forward to it continuing.

multiplicity of voices.

The variety of photography this year is amazing and

I hope that you enjoy the images selected for the 2018 exhibition and will join me in congratulating all of the

encompasses all manner of techniques and subject matter.

photographers whose portraits are featured. I

All of the portraits capture the essence of the sitter, yet, at the

―Shane Gleghorn, Managing Partner, Taylor Wessing

same time, they tell us something about the photographer

Second Prize

Max Barstow

© Max Barstow

Enda Bowe

Third Prize

Joint Third Prize

54 - info - winter 2019

© Joey Lawrence

© Enda Bowe

Joey Lawrence

CULTUR E – WHAT ' S ON

First Prize

© Alice Mann

Alice Mann

First Prize: From top left to bottom right: Wakiesha Titus and Riley Van Harte, Cape Town, South Africa, 2018; Keisha Ncube, Cape Town, South Africa, 2017; Tanique Williams, Cape Town, South Africa, 2018; Taylim Prince, Cape Town, South Africa, 2017 from the series Drummies by ALICE MANN

Second Prize: Cybil McAddy with daughter Lulu from the series Clapton Blossom

by ENDA BOWE

Third Prize: Untitled from the series Londoners

by MAX BARSTOW

Joint Third Prize: Portrait of 'Strong' Joe Smart from the series Tombo's Wound by JOEY LAWRENCE

info

- winter 2019 - 55

LIFE S T YLE – WINE

A MOREY- SAINT- DENIS Wine Story INFO explores the produce of a village nestled in the heart of the burgundy wine region

T

he legendary St Denis, Bishop of Paris, might have lost his head as a martyr, but he certainly did not lose his stomach.

The very name of Burgundy has a sonorous foodie ring.

This is the land of the famous Charolais beef, rich cheeses like the stinky Epoisses or the creamy and salty Chaource, and

Feathered game, braised or roasted, will succumb to its meaty texture, and its sustained tannins will make their presence felt until the last succulent mouthful

iconic casserole dishes such as the Boeuf Bourguignon. These have been the elements of a sumptuous table unchanged

cherries. Variants include bramble, violet, liquorice, and fruits

since medieval times, when the monastery and local Hospices

conserved in liquor. When aged, it often evokes the wildwood

flourished in the ancient Duchy.

scents of game, leather, moss, even truffle.

In the northern part of the region, the Cote de Nuits,

Masculine in character, as one expects from the Côte de

between Chambolle Musigny and Gevrey-Chambertin, is the

Nuits, full and powerful in the mouth, red Morey-Saint-Denis,

village of Morey-Saint-Denis – my focus this month.

at home with meat of equally strong flavour. Its tannins are

On a vineyard of around 150 hectares, the commune

more likely to bring out the best from a game bird (such as

of Morey-Saint-Denis produces five renowned Grand Cru,

a pheasant) than a piece of veal. Feathered game, braised or

including Clos de La Roche and the two ‘monopoles’ (single

roasted, will succumb smoothly to its meaty texture, and its

owner) Clos Lambrays and Clos de Tart. Twenty tiny Premiers

sustained tannins will make their presence felt until the last

Crus, such as Monts Luisants, are situated at the top of the hills.

succulent, musky mouthful. They will also bring out the quality

The village, blessed by an easterly sunny morning exposition

of a fine rib steak or a thick beef blade.

and shelter between hills, is well known for producing dark

In their eight hectare Amiot Domaine, producers Christian

and rich Pinot Noir with the potential for longevity. The colour

and Elisabeth have joined by a straight Bourgogne Pinot Noir

is usually a full, firm, bright ruby, carmine or intense garnet

and a Chambolle – now one of the most sought-after domaines

with purplish highlights. The bouquet is partly of black fruits

of the appellation. I

(blackcurrant, bilberry) and partly of red, pitted fruits such as

Thibault Lavergne

TO ORDER THE ABOVE-MENTIONED WINES AND OTHERS, CONTACT: E: thibault@winestory.co.uk T: +44 (0)7921 770 691 W: www.winestory.co.uk

56 - info - winter 2019

WWW.INSTITUT-FRANCAIS.ORG.UK

AT THE CHAMBER

Save the date: 21 March 2019 Spring Studios , 10 Spring place Kentish Town, London

2 0 1 9

NW5 3BH

T

he New Year brings fresh activity

in the luxury sector, a timely and

and energy to the Chamber

important topic. The conference will

three new representatives to our Board

– and we have many exciting

This year, we are also welcoming

again welcome some of the biggest

of Directors, having been sworn in just

developments in store. However we do

names in luxury drawn from within

before the holiday break. I am pleased

not proceed without taking stock of the

our membership, as well as a range of

to announce that Marc Bena (above

year that passed, where the Chamber

sectoral experts.

right), Partner at PwC, Bénédicte Duval

continued to grow and develop in new and unprecedented ways.

Of course, 2019 is set to be the year

(above left), General Manager UK &

of Brexit, pending any final twists and

Ireland at Air France KLM, and Fabrice

turns. We understand and welcome

Bernhard (above middle), CTO and

successes last year, we can point to

our role as a steward for businesses in

Co-Founder of Theodo have graciously

the well-attended Retail conference,

these challenging times, and will look

accepted our offer and will be joining

where we built on our reputation as a

to build on our already considerable

the Board with immediate effect.

source for the most up to date industry

coverage in our regular Brexit Forum,

insight and analysis. Our LeBridge 2018

across our website and social media,

extend my warmest congratulations

matchmaking and networking event

and in the pages of our magazine INFO.

to my dear Senior Vice President,

To highlight just a few of our

Finally, I would be remiss if I did not

for start-ups and corporate firms also

In this respect and others, we

generated a huge amount of interest

continue to be grateful for our close

awarded Officier de la Légion d’Honneur

and led to new partnerships and

working relationship with the French

by HE Jean-Pierre Jouyet in a beautiful

innovation across the membership.

Embassy. The Ambassador HE Mr

ceremony at the French Residence.

Jean-Pierre Jouyet has shown great

Peter has been active in the Chamber

our London Luxury Think Tank, an

commitment to supporting the local

for more than thirty years. Bravo Peter,

inspirational and informative meeting of

French business community, and to

and thank you for all your service to the

industry leaders. This year the meeting

a partnership with the Chamber in its

will focus on the theme of sustainability

mission.

Chamber. I wish you all a wonderful year ahead! I FG

This year we will look to repeat

58 - info - winter 2019

my friend Peter Alfandary, who was

NE WS – AT THE CHAMBE R

Chamb er 135th Anniversar y

Chamber President Fabienne Viala and Managing Director Florence Gomez (centre) with members of the Chamber staff

T

he French Chamber would like to thank all of the members who attended our 135th Anniversary celebrations on the river Thames. We hope you had a wonderful evening with us and enjoyed looking back on the achievements of the French Chamber

over the past 135 years!

We would like to thank HE Mr Jean-Pierre Jouyet, French Ambassador to the UK, for joining us on this special occasion. We would like to address a special thank you to our sponsor Crédit Agricole CIB and our hosting partner Bateaux London, for providing such a unique and memorable experience.

We would also like to thank our partners for their generous contributions: Graphiplus for inviting a portrait artist; Hôtel Café Royal for providing the cake; PAUL UK for providing the bread buffet; Petrossian for providing a caviar & vodka tasting; Rome de Bellegarde for the wines; and Savencia for providing the cheese buffet.

Additional pictures of the evening are available on our website and our Facebook page. I

Partner:

Sponsored by:

info

- winter 2019 - 59

Happy Bir thday I N F O M agazine!

T

his year we will be looking back over the remarkable forty-year publishing history of INFO magazine. Since its

launch in the late seventies, the magazine has evolved in its presentation, design and content, making leaps from blackand-white to colour, from print to digital.

However, despite many changes, the magazine remains faithful to its original mission as a vital platform for member activity and business insight, and continues to be the only regular magazine serving the Franco-British business community.

Over the years, the magazine has opened its pages to thousands of member companies, and has published prescient analysis from leading political figures, experts, and thought leaders from the business community, and has included interviews with company directors and CEOs of some of the world’s biggest companies – not to mention our long-running wine column!

Throughout 2019, we will be re-publishing content from our archives, celebrating our storied past and bright future, and all the while highlighting the business growth and evolution of our member companies. I

Above left: September 1978, Countdown to the new INFO Magazine Above: January 1979, First issue of INFO Magazine Above right: January 1983, 100 years of trade with the UK Left: November / December 2004 Right: January / February 2008

60 - info - winter 2019

1979 2019

AT THE CHAMBE R - E VE NTS

NEW SPONSOR OF THE CLIMATE CHANGE & SUSTAINABILITY FORUM

Toulouse School of Economics (TSE) The Chamber is pleased to announce that Toulouse School of Economics (TSE) is now sponsoring the meetings of the Climate Change & Sustainbity Forum. Here INFO speaks to its Dean, Stéphane Grégoir

the debates, and also exchange with the other major actors in the field who will be present. It’s also the opportunity for TSE to showcase our international graduate courses in the field, and discuss with potential employers.

What activities does TSE undertake in these areas?

Our dedicated research group organises

Why is TSE interested in sponsoring

seminars every week and conferences

What are your expectations of the

on a regular basis to gather academics

Forum?

and practitioners around the current

Our general aim in taking part in the

environmental issues.

climate

TSE director, Christian Gollier is also one

forum is to connect research to policy,

of the Lead Authors of last two reports of

exchanging ideas and analysis with top

the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate

economic practitioners and trying to

Change (IPCC) that received the Nobel

identify and explore new scientific and

Peace Prize in 2007.

educational opportunities in the field.

More

recently,

building

change

and

sustainability

on

the

Via the three TSE professors who

excellence

the Climate Change & Sustainability

continued

of

will be taking part in the round table

Forum?

energy and environmental economics in

discussions, we will be particularly

TSE has a long research tradition on

Toulouse, the urgency of the fight against

focusing on three issues: nudges and

topics related to climate change and

climate change and the transition to new

morality

sustainability. For many years, our

energy sources has inspired the creation

productivity within the EU ETS system,

energy and environmental economics

of a new collaborative platform, the TSE

and

research group has been working on

Energy & Climate Center, with the help of

through market data and surveys.

the economics of natural resources

our partners EDF, Engie and Total.

(notably water resource management,

This

scientific

initiative

brings

together

What

in

valuing

does

behavioural

economics,

environmental

membership

impacts

of

the

growth and climate change, and energy

academic and industrial partners to

French Chamber mean for TSE?

transition); the evaluation of public

build new analytical tools and exchange

This membership is key in our aspiration

policies (including the issue of risk and

data and ideas on the economics of

to create and develop closer links with

uncertainty in cost-benefit analysis); the

energy and climate change. An annual

British companies. We also would like to

political economy of the environment;

outreach event is also organised to

draw the attention of potential recruiters

economics

gather

and

to our masters’ programmes and the

human-environment interactions), and

professionals working at the forefront of

professional skills of our students and

behavioral environmental economics.

the energy sector to offer their insights

graduates. I

and

biology

(notably

world-class

economists

Given this strong expertise in the

and debate the current stakes in the

field, it seemed natural for us to take

energy transition. In 2018, the focus was

part in this forum, so that our faculty

more specifically on the integration of

experts can bring their knowledge to

renewables into the energy mix.

For more information: www.tse-fr.eu

info

- winter 2019 - 61

NEW MEMBERS 4 NEW CORPORATE MEMBERS DCG MEDIA LTD TRADING AS ZOO COMMUNICATIONS Digital and Creative Marketing Agency Represented by Simon Veale, Managing Director ZOO is a haven where clients from innovative, hungry start-ups to established market leaders discover our passion for changing behaviour and building brands. Whatever the brief we’ll ensure that our fantastic team will find the right creative solution to meet your business growth objectives. www.zoocomms.com EXPEDIA Online Travel Agency Represented by Camille Jorcin, Public & Media Relations Expedia.com® is one of the world's largest full service travel sites, helping millions of travelers per month easily plan and book travel. Expedia.com aims to provide the latest technology and the widest selection of top vacation destinations, affordable airfare, hotel deals, car rentals, cruise deals and in-destination activities, attractions, services and travel apps. www.expedia.co.uk HOME GROWN Members' Club for High-Growth Entrepreneurs Represented by Sophie Chaney, General Manager In Spring 2019 Home House will launch a new club, Home Grown – a dynamic global community of high growth entrepreneurs, investors, performance business leaders and advisors. Home Grown will facilitate and encourage business, catalysing growth in an opulent environment featuring business lounges, event spaces, 35 bedrooms and premium dining facilities. www.homegrownclub.co.uk SPRING STUDIOS Creative and Production Agency Represented by Janet Carpenter, Managing Director Spring Studios is an innovative integrated creative agency, creating communications for some of the world’s most iconic luxury, fashion, beauty, lifestyle and retail brands. Offering end-to-end services for creating and producing global brand campaigns, digital platforms, social campaigns, brand design, experiential marketing, content capture, editorial shoots and e-commerce. www.springstudios.com

17 NEW ACTIVE MEMBERS Acuitis Optical + Hearing Ltd – Optician & Audiologists - www.acuitisuk.com Represented by Steve Fleming, Managing Director Biogroupe SAS – Drink and Vegan Yoghurt Manufacturer - www.biogroupe.com/en Represented by Julie Cavailles, Sales Representative Goodwille – Professional Business Services for UK Operations - www.goodwille.com Represented by James Service, Marketing Manager Gordon Dadds LLP – International Law Firm - www.gordondadds.com Represented by Gareth Jones, Partner Graphiplus – Calligraphy, Design and Live Art - www.graphiplus.net Represented by Aurélien Garnier, Managing Director Maison Bonnet, Lunetier – Bespoke Eyewear - www.maisonbonnet.com Represented by Arnaud Falce, Manager 62 - info - winter 2019

NE W ME MBE R S – AT THE CHAMBE R

Mediation Impact Ltd – Alternative Conflict Resolution - www.mediationimpact.org Represented by Caroline de la Rochère, Chairman Meribeth Parker Consulting Ltd – Media and Luxury Brand Consultancy Represented by Meribeth Parker, Founder Momentom 8 Ltd – Business Development and Brand Consulting - www.momentom8.com Represented by Tom Meggle, Founder and Director myGwork – LGBT+ Business Community and Job Board - www.mygwork.com Represented by Pierre Gaubert, Co-Founder Oshibori Concept International – Producing Customisable Refreshing Cosmetic Towels - www.oshibori-concept.com Represented by Clément Carteret, International Sales Manager Qwil Messenger – Safe and Compliant Client Chat Platform - www.qwilmessenger.com Represented by Laurent Guyot, Director, CFO Swarovski UK Ltd – Swarovski Crystal Business - www.swarovskigroup.co.uk Represented by Jane McCorriston, Vice President for PR & Marketing, Corporate Branding and Communications Tronico – Eletronic Design & Manufacturing Services - tronico-alcen.com Represented by Frédéric Maignan, Sales Manager Verisure Services UK Ltd – Leading Monitored Smart Alarm Provider - www.verisure.co.uk Represented by Jeremy Benamou, Marketing and Strategy Director Vicbag UK – Bags Distribution - www.vicbag.com Represented by Djamal Bellehchili, Director VIP Real Estate – French Properties and Vineyards Sales - www.vip-real-estate.com Represented by Noël Castinel, Owner

H at s of f to...

Katherine Bennett named CBE

K

atherine Bennett, Senior Vice President of Airbus in the UK, has been awarded Commander of the British Empire (CBE) in the New Year’s Honours list for services to the Aerospace and Aviation sectors. Bennett is a member of the Chamber’s Board of Directors.

Bennett said: ‘Aviation touches every part of people’s lives, whether bringing vital supplies and medicines into the UK or transporting holidaymakers abroad for a well-earned rest. Our aircraft make this possible. And at Airbus we have made great strides to open up this incredible industry to a more diverse range of workers, no matter their backgrounds. I’m humbled to be awarded this honour.’

Olivier Morel receives the Légion d’Honneur

O

livier Morel, a partner at the law firm Cripps, has received France’s highest order of merit in recognition of his three decades of experience working with French businesses in the UK and fostering Franco-British cooperation. He is also a Vice President of the French Chamber of Great Britain.

A French and English dually-qualified corporate lawyer, Morel said: ‘It is a huge honour that the French government has seen fit to recognise my work with the French and British business communities.

I am a passionate advocate of the bond of commerce and friendship between our two nations, so I also see this award as recognition of the importance of those historical links.’

info

- winter 2019 - 63

A PRACTICAL APPROACH TO HUMAN RESOURCES IN GREAT BRITAIN

New to HR in the UK?

ÂŁ15

Whether you are working within a large HR team, operating as an external advisor or are a business leader with responsibilities for the HR aspects of your organisation, this guide will help you to prepare for the challenges you face when working with employees in the UK. This guide is also much appreciated by the senior management and HR staff of UK subsidiaries of French companies.

Millennials, working conditions, salaries or payroll, the guide provides an overview of all the topics that relate to managing a workforce in Great Britain. It is the reference tool to do HR in the UK! Areas covered include: How to recruit - The legal framework - What salary and benefits? - Payroll, taxation and other charges - Recruitment on the internet - Working conditions

Buy our practical guide on: www.frenchchamber.co.uk

Translated by HL TRAD

CLIMATE CHANGE & SUSTAINABILITY FORUM

The high ground of hydrogen The latest meeting of the Climate Change & Sustainability Forum explored the future of hydrogen trains in the UK

T

he

contest

for

zero

emission

transport solutions is heating up.

Hydrogen fuel cells in cars and buses are already in operation, but trains are just behind and getting closer to UK implementation.

Mike Muldoon, Head of Business Development & Marketing, Alstom UK & Ireland, presented on the topic at the Climate Change & Sustainability Forum, co-chaired by Richard Brown, Chairman of

the

Department

for

Transport

Franchise Advisory Panel, and JeanPhilippe Verdier, Founding Partner of Verdier & Co. Corporate Advisory.

Trains on the whole are known to have low carbon emissions but that doesn’t mean the industry will rest on its laurels. ‘[The rail industry has] lived long

The rail industry has lived long on the environmentally friendly card. We can’t hold the high ground forever, we have got to move

on the environmentally friendly card, claiming to be the most sustainable form

hydrogen utilises fuel produced from

The UK case

of land based public transport,’ says

fossil fuels; although the train itself can

To introduce the technology to the UK,

Muldoon. ‘We can’t hold the high ground

have zero emissions, the production

Alstom has partnered with Eversholt Rail

forever, we have got to move.’

of the hydrogen has its own footprint.

to upcycle existing Class 321 trains, and

Green

renewable

to fit them with hydrogen tanks and fuel

energies in its initial production. It

cells. Although not relevant to all classes

Diesel trains tend to have a lifespan of

ensures the whole process, from ‘well to

of trains, regional trains would benefit

35 years. The UK market is entering a

wheel’, has zero emissions.

greatly from this technology as they

Long term vision

period where these trains are due to

hydrogen

Electric

trains

utilises

are

the

cost

fit the appropriate energy and power

be replenished. A renewal of similar

comparator, as an alternative zero

diesel trains would therefore run into

emissions technology. In the short

‘We are in a world where some of

the 2050s. This clashes starkly with the

term, hydrogen trains will have a higher

this technology is evolving quite rapidly

recent government challenge to remove

purchase cost than diesel, as this would

and that is something that culturally rail

diesel rolling stock by 2040.

require conversion or installation of the

doesn’t like. We like proven technology,

necessary technologies and refuelling

we like certainty […] The industry needs

regulations for train emissions may not

stations.

be

to grow so we’ve all got to experiment

impact the industry in the immediate

cheaper than electrical in the long term,

with this technology to find out what

future, stringent regulations in cities for

with no need for expensive electrical

works,’

particulates and air quality will have a

infrastructure.

in the UK, we’re actually looking at

Additionally,

although

national

shorter term impact.

According to Muldoon, a solution

But

hydrogen

would

Diesel trains are the ‘performance comparator’

for

hydrogen

trains,

range.

says

Muldoon.

‘That’s

why,

the conversion of trains, rather than necessarily brand new.’

is required to the question of how to

according to Muldoon. They have the

The shorter life of the converted train

combine range (in terms of voyages) with

same range as diesel trains, with no

allows for more flexibility to incorporate

zero emissions. This is where hydrogen

dependence on power lines as is the

any technological developments, from

trains fit in.

case for electric, and a comparative

the rapidly emerging markets of heavy

refuelling time to diesel.

duty fuel cells. I SL

In terms of the emissions, hydrogen can be either ‘brown’ or ‘green’. Brown

info

- winter 2019 - 65

RETAIL FORUM

The meaning of Luxury The latest Retail Forum explored the future of luxury retailing and held a planning session for the year ahead

O

ld luxury’ is a thing of the past. Consumers of high end

Millennial narratives

goods and services now seek out experiences with

Meggle highlighted the evolution of the meaning of luxury

meaning, in line with their ethics and values. According to

over the past centuries and specific questions about what

industry experts, ten years from now the market will be fuelled

luxury means today in the online space. Using the example of

exclusively by people’s ‘emotional connections.’

a recent Amazon search, the notion of a luxury product can

Guest speaker Tom Meggle, Founder & Director of the

mean anything from a tin of ‘luxury’ fudge (£9.99) to a ‘luxury’

consultancy Momentom 8, delivered a presentation ‘What

hot-dog maker going for just over £30. These examples show a

does luxury mean’ to the latest meeting of the Retail Forum.

co-opting of the idea of luxury which is struggling for identity in

The session was chaired by Catherine Palmer, Legal &

a self-curated digital reality.

Administrative Director of Joseph. The Forum was hosted in

Yet luxury is also being redefined by millennials, who

Yen, a Japanese restaurant in central London specialising in

will pay more for experience than for possession or status

hand-made soba noodles.

exemplifying the growing trend of experiences related to both

According to Meggle, while the behaviours behind luxury shopping are evolving, there are some constant drivers to luxury spending. Scarcity and desirability continue to be pivotal

value-driven decisions and the individualisation of style and importance of personal well-being.

‘Flying out to the Bodensee in Germany for a diet cure at

in an industry which relies almost as much on the story behind

Buchinger is a form of modern luxury,’ says Meggle. ‘Health

the item as the item itself.

and well being and spirituality are clearly massive new markets

‘It is about the sometimes nervous reactions when a luxury consumer cannot get access to the object of desire,’

for the modern luxury consumer.’

Meggle describes the new cohort of consumers as a ‘free-

says Meggle. He points to the Kelly and Birkin bags by Hermes

thinking, individualistic generation,’ with ‘a disruptive mindset

as a masterful example of creating desire around a product.

that values experiences over tangible items.’

‘No other fashion brand has created such a myth around a product icon.’

‘They are all about premium experiences and finding opportunities to post a share-worthy story on their social media. Unique experience is the top driver for deciding if and how to make future purchases.’

Value-driven trends also point to a focus on climate change and sustainability. Meggle cites examples from the fashion industry, where a recent Greenpeace campaign has been instrumental in pressuring fashion brands to take action to remove toxic chemicals from their supply chains.

‘Fashion is undergoing a radical change, and becoming a more circular economy in line with sustainable principles and values, says Meggle. ‘It is not only a necessity – but also the nouveau chic!’ I

Unique experience is the top driver for deciding whether or not, and how to make future purchases

Yen is a fine-dining authentic Japanese restaurant specialising in hand-made Soba (buckwheat) noodles, prepared fresh before every service, served along sushi, sashimi, tempura, robata and other traditional Japanese dishes. Located within the new luxurious development of 190 Strand, the restaurant hosts a cocktail bar in the mezzanine area with outside seating, has an open kitchen and a sushi counter, and a private room within the main restaurant.

66 - info - winter 2019

HR FORUM

From diversity to inclusion The latest meeting of the HR Forum explored effective ways to build and maintain a diverse workforce

T

he Chamber welcomed Jane Ayaduray, Head of diversity and Inclusion UK, BNP Paribas, and Pierre Gaubert , CEO

& Co-Founder, Mygwork, who gave a presentation on the topic of diversity in the workplace, and strategies to achieve effective inclusion. The session was chaired by Pia Dekkers, Regional HR Divisional Director, Chanel, and Melanie

Stancliffe, Partner – Employment, Irwin Mitchell LLP. The session heard brief presentations, and opened to a wider discussion between speakers and participants from a range of Chamber member companies, who shared experience, challenges and best practice.

While many companies wish to become more diverse – and may have internal diversity targets – the key to a successful strategy involves creating an inclusive culture that can drive change.

Gaubert, who created a networking hub for LGBT+ professionals, graduates and employers, listed three first steps a company can do to make LGBT+ employees fee included at

Strategies include encouraging the creation of Diversity and Inclusion committees and Employee Resource Groups (ERGs), who can coordinate action and act as networking groups for

work. ‘First you should listen to them and hear their specific needs,’ says Gaubert. ‘Second you allow them to have a say in shaping your organisation culture. And thirdly, you make sure

updated its Diversity Charter pertaining to their businesses

everyone knows it is not ok to make LGBT+ jokes.’

globally. The Charter aims to develop a management that

Gaubert highlighted that unconscious bias training may help employees realise where they might be displaying inappropriate behaviour and how they can understand and improve their interactions with colleagues.

Other strategies include encouraging the creation of

is respectful of differences and based on trust and team cohesion.

The notion of diversity has gradually expanded to include many different criteria, and today addresses all stakeholders of organisations, both internal and external. Associated issues

Diversity and Inclusion committees and Employee Resource

are being reinforced, in particular awareness of the impact

Groups (ERGs), who can coordinate action and act as

that diversity has on economic performance achieved through

networking groups. These groups may require identifying an

management that is respectful of individual differences.

executive sponsor and funding internally.

‘LGBT+ employees and allies often share similar interests,’ says Gaubert. ‘These groups can create a sense of belonging and employees can feel supported.’

Another step is to promote role models internally and

According to Ayaduray, the aim of diversity and inclusion is above all to create a work environment that is enriching and fulfilling for all employees.

In 2018, the company organised a two week celebration of diversity and inclusion, including conferences, shows, visits and

externally, as visibility is key to wider adoption and change in

roundtables on a variety of topics: cultural diversity, gender

corporate culture. ‘Take an inclusive approach – everyone can

equality, sexual orientation and gender identity, physical

be a role model!’ This will help in the retention of diverse talent,

appearance, religious diversity and disability.

and lead to a happier workforce.

‘Happier LGBT+ employees will become ambassador’s and drive more talent attraction,’ says Gaubert.

Diversity charter

There was a particular spotlight this year on intergenerational relationships, represented in particular by the internal BNP Paribas network WeGenerations, which aims to facilitate exchange between young and senior employees, transmitting knowledge and skills between them, and

Jane Ayaduray reporetd that BNP Paribas has taken steps to

questioning or taking a different look at stereotypes linked

re-affirm its commitment to diversity and inclusion, having

to age. I

info

- winter 2019 - 67

FINANCE FORUM

Demystifying the cloud The Finance Forum explored how the cloud works, as well as its advantages and its complexities

T

he session welcomed David Strong, Digital Practice Director - Cloud

Transformation, Sopra Steria, who delivered a presentation on ‘cloud transformation: the demystification of the cloud.’ The session was chaired by John Peachey, Managing Director - CFO Global Markets, HSBC Bank Plc.

World leader The cloud is a rapidly developing and increasingly omnipresent technology, central to the digital transformation of businesses, and the UK has an important role to play in this evolution.

‘The UK is recognised as the world leader in digital service advancements,

The UK is recognised as the world leader in digital service advancements, and the cloud is key to that success

and the cloud is key to that success,’ says Strong, who explained that the

computer’s hard drive. According to BT,

Strong sought to dispel theses fears,

cloud and cloud-based technologies

the reason the cloud has become so

and pointed to the opportunity that

now represent the largest UK digital

popular is that it ‘allows organisations

cloud-based technology can help

market at £20.80bn, an increase of 23

to provide sophisticated applications

your business grow in the current

percent from 2017.

that can be used by lots of people

marketplace. ‘Your cloud operating

around the world at the same time.’ The

model could define your success,’ says

at increasing pace,’ says Strong. ‘The

specification of the personal computer

Strong. ‘There is a reason to be bold

pace of change is faster than ever, and it

becomes much less important.

and disruptive.’

‘The cloud is continuously delivering

will never be this slow again.’

And though the cloud is not owned

The advantages of the cloud can

or operated by a single company, major

include guaranteed accessibility,

percent of application modernisation

players like Google, IBM and Microsoft

optimised costs, greater flexibility and

(the re-purposing or upgrading of

develop technology to enable cloud

easier access and sharing.

software programming to align is more

applications. Other companies like

closely with current business needs)

YouTube and Netflix are entirely cloud-

achieving transformation, the website of

and digital transformation. It is the only

based.

the IT firm Sopra Steria notes that ‘there

The cloud now underpins 90

platform that can deliver the innovative

Beyond the overall objective of

is now a need to structure a company

solutions which use advanced AI and

Concerns and solutions

analytics.

In spite of the ubiquity, some

cloud it is now possible to profoundly

businesses can be slow to adapt to

reshape the organisation of your entire

cloud computing, means storing and

cloud technology, as they do not

information system, even the overall

accessing data and programmes

fully comprehend it, or are uncertain

organisation of your company. I

over the internet, instead of on your

about its security features and costs.

At its simplest, the cloud, or

A PER S PECT I V E O N T H E C LO U D 1. Focus on your culture; it is bigger than the technology 2. Cloud is a business tool to enable outcome based goals. Don’t be scared of it 3. Be prepared to be flexible in your approach

68 - info - winter 2019

to function "as a platform".’ With the

DIGITAL TRANSFORMATION AND INNOVATION FORUM

Content management

Sponsored by

The connection between content and the consumer was discussed in the latest Digital Transformation & Innovation Forum

I

n today’s digital age, content is available to consume everywhere we look. But creating relevant content and ensuring it reaches

the appropriate audience is the challenge.

This subject was tackled in the latest Digital Transformation & Innovation Forum, with speakers: Ines Da Silva, Creative, Branding & Digital Consultant, IDS creative; Gareth Mugford, Head of Content UK, Dailymotion; and Somi Arian, Founder, Smart Cookie Media. The session was chaired by Sebastien Goldenberg, CEO of TheHouseShop.com, in the absence of the Digital Forum Co-Chairs on this occasion.

User expectations and engagement Da Silva highlights that the modern attention span is only 8.25 seconds. People therefore tend to deploy ‘non linear

L. to R.: Somi Arian, Founder, Smart Cookie Media, Ines Da Silva, Creative, Branding & Digital Consultant, IDS Creative, Gareth Mugford, Head of Content UK, Dailymotion

reading’ where we scan texts for keywords. This enhances the importance of first impressions when visiting websites. Websites

firstly understand its customer. With digital pervading our

should easily provide answers to the questions visitors require,

lives, there are now more analytics available than ever before.

boosting the site’s SEO.

Marketers should take the opportunity to understand their

To do this, the site must understand and cater to user intent.

The website can be considered an extra salesperson so should appeal to a range of personas, dependent on your current and potential future clients.

audience’s interests, and how to entertain or educate them rather than focusing on traditional demographics.

Arian therefore suggests an alternative model to represent modern marketing. Production and distribution provide the

In order to ensure a cohesive message, website design should be tackled by one person to ensure an overarching view,

walls or pillars. These should be focused and condensed, both in terms of content creation and the audience that you target.

with all needs aligned. This all-encompassing approach should

These two pillars support the following layers:

challenge the company’s strategy as the site should reflect the

• Your story – how to communicate your brand

message and goal of the organisation.

• Their story - who you are building this house for • The product – the final component, which would have

A modern marketing model

conversely been the focus in the traditional school of

Arian expands this concept further, saying that traditional

marketing

marketing has always started with the product. A campaign is

Arian says that millennials now have so much choice that

created around this, with the aim to drive sales. Conversely,

they care less about the product. They are more interested in

modern marketing’s goal is to encourage people to spend time

seeing how they can relate to the brand. The most important

with a brand. The more time spent, the more they will buy.

component of this new model is therefore the audience’s story,

In order to encourage this engagement, a company must

T I C K L I ST FO R C O N T EN T C R E AT I O N

answering the question of ‘what does this mean to me?’ I SL

( D E TA I L S P R OV I D E D BY G A R E T H M U G F O R D ):

1. Define objectives according to your business goals: Sales or leads? Improve SEO? Exposure?

2. Define the budget for distribution: nowadays, 20-70 percent of the budget is necessary for the distribution 3. Know your audience - not only your existing customers but also your potential future customers 4. Create your content bearing in mind how it will be distributed to ensure it is well suited for the channel 5. Build a strategy tailored to your company, considering objectives, data, and target groups, all informed by how you aim to distribute 6. Leverage different channels but ensure everything links back to the same engagement point (website or social media)

info

- winter 2019 - 69

LUXURY CLUB

Studio tour: Antony Gormley The latest meeting of the Luxury Club visited the stunning workshop of the artist and sculptor Sir Antony Gormley

A

ntony

are

is one that balances the extremes of

recognisably human forms for which he

concealed in an industrial side street

Gormley’s

studios

vast light-filled spaces, where the bulk

is perhaps best known.

behind the Eurostar hub at St Pancras.

of the sculpting and welding happens,

At the time of the visit, Gormley and

The Luxury Club met there for an

with intimate workstations for a range

his team were preparing for a major solo

exclusive tour of the studios, including

of other activities including drawing,

retrospective at the RA – his biggest show

a vast array of the artist’s work, both

painting and photography.

in Britain for more than a decade. He

complete and in progress. The session

‘I think of it as a factory,’ said Gormley

was simultaneously working on another

was led by Tom Meggle, chair of the

in an interview with the Tate gallery. ‘We

gallery show for the Uffizi in Florence and

Luxury Club.

built it with this idiom of it being like a

several bids to design pieces of public art

factory.’

around the world.

After a meeting with the artist, participants posed for photographs

Like his famous ‘Angel of the North’,

After the tour, the group congregated

among the imposing, often industrial

the site boasts massive proportions, with

in the staff kitchen, itself an impressive

scale sculptures in one of the two

14,000 feet of external space and 10,000

and airy space on the top floor of the

cavernous warehouses that make up

feet of studio space with huge vaulted

studio complex. The evening concluded

the bulk of the workshop space, while

ceilings. ‘The idea was to be able to make

with

the rest of the contemporary building

things of up to ten meters high, but also

amongst the participants – with many

contains offices, studios and shared

to see them,’ says Gormley.

departing into the night with a renewed

space for Gormley and his assistants.

Inside the main building workshop

champagne

and

networking

sense of inspiration.

The overall effect of the building,

hung an array of metal artworks – twisted

The Chamber would like to thank

which was designed by the British

and contorted wire metal structures –

Antony Gormley and his assistant Alice

architect David Chipperfield in 2004,

while on the floor were several of the

O’Reilly for their hospitality. I

The overall effect of the building, which was designed by the British architect David Chipperfield in 2004, is one that balances the extremes of vast light-filled spaces, where the bulk of the sculpting and welding happens, with intimate workstations for a range of other activities including drawing, painting and photography 70 - info - winter 2019

START-UP & SME CLUB

Brexit for SMEs The latest meeting of the Start-up & SME Club heard legal advice on the impact to their businesses and how to plan for potential repercussions

I

n a session on the impact of the Brexit process and outcomes on small and

medium sized businesses, the Chamber welcomed speakers Steen Rosenfalck

and Emmanuelle Ries, Managing Partners, ebl miller rosenfalck. The session was chaired by Sébastien Goldenberg, CEO & Co-Founder, TheHouseShop.com and Jeanne Monchovet Founder and Principal Consultant of Olystix.

The meeting covered an update on Brexit progress and the timeline going forward, with the transition period set to end in December 2020. The meeting also addressed aspects of the ongoing relationship between the EU and the UK in terms of negotiations, and the current post UK immigration policy set out by the

Businesses should be thinking about ‘future-proofing’ their employment contracts to provide for the impact of Brexit

government.

The Migration Advisory Committee (MAC) report in September 2018 recommends no

application needs to be made to the Home Office which

preferential treatment be given to EU citizens after Brexit.

demonstrates the ability to carry out the duties of a sponsor,

It also recommends that the current sponsor licence

including evidence of meeting compliance requirements, and

system continues, but that it is made less administratively

that the business is in need of recruitment. The current fee

burdensome. A new government White Paper on immigration

for SMEs applying for a sponsor licence is £536, and they are

was expected in December 2018.

issued for a four year period.

Status anxiety

their employment contracts to provide for the impact of

One of the principal issues facing SMEs is the ability to retain

Brexit. This includes everything from the right to renegotiate

and attract staff to their businesses, and there has already

and could include a consideration for the right to terminate a

been a marked decrease in net migration from the EU to the

contract due to Brexit effects.

UK. The Brexit process and the concurrent issues relating

Businesses should also be thinking about ‘future-proofing’

Other issues that could impact smaller businesses include

to visa and residency permits, mean that there continues

the commercial impact of new or raised exchange rates and

to be uncertainty around the final outcome. However there

tariffs. Border control and EU value added taxes may also have

are pathways in the current system, and businesses should

to factor into any decision making and business priorities.

encourage their employees to actively seek out permanent residency or settled status applications as a priority.

The current proposal for settled status requires a proof

Restrictions on the free movement of workers will be a central issue for all businesses, as will the termination of access to the internal European single market, further

of EU nationality and residency in the UK for five consecutive

reinforcing the potential utility of a ‘Brexit clause’ in contracts

years. For those who have less than five years residence or

with employees, suppliers and business partners.

who arrive after the Brexit date of 29 March 2019 can apply for temporary status.

Businesses can also apply for a sponsor’s license, whereby a job applicant who need to apply for a work permit can

A great deal of what will happen is yet to be decided, but what is clear is that SMEs can and should begin their planning now for a Brexit that may leave them in a position requiring a legal foothold. I

be sponsored. In order to apply for a sponsor’s licence, an

info

- winter 2019 - 71

FORTHCOMING FORUMS & CLUBS By application only

16

January 08.30 - 10.30

22

January

BREXIT FORUM 'The Impact of BREXIT on Professional Services' Guest speaker: Oliver O’Sullivan, Associate, Gateley Plc

CLIMATE CHANGE AND SUSTAINABILIT Y FORUM

'Behaviour economics, nudges and morality’ 08.30 - 10.30 Guest speakers: Ingela Alger, Senior Researcher CNRS, Program Director Ecology Path Environmental and Natural Resource Economics, Toulouse School of Economics and Joanna Pawlik, Product Strategist & Data Scientist, Reckon Digital

24

January 08.30 - 10.00

29

January 08.30 - 10.30

HUMAN RESOURCES FORUM ‘Talent attraction (shortage, etc.)’

Guest speakers: Caroline Tchekhoff, Co-founder & CMO, Weologix and Sarah Robert, Partner, James Cowper Kreston

31

DIGITAL TR ANSFORMATION & INNOVATION FORUM

‘VR - a focus on technology and business case’ 08.30 - 10.30 Guest speakers: Pedro Diez Cocero, Business Transformation Solution Consultant, Dassault Systemes, Nick McFerran, Senior Solution Consultant, CATIA Design Centre of Excellence, Dassault Systemes and and Fardi Mohamed, Managing Director, SYS Visual January

6

February

RETAIL FORUM ‘BREXIT: 15 months after the vote’ Guest speaker: TBC

08.30 - 10.30

13

February

FINANCE FORUM ‘The impact of IFR16 on businesses’ Venue & guest speakers: TBC

08.30 - 10.00

START-UP & SME CLUB Business Development; reducing your sales cycle and adding new business streams’ Guest speaker: Tanguy Tallon, CEO & Founder, bim! business accelerator

All sessions, excluding the Retail Forum, Luxury Club and the Women's Business Club, take place at the French Chamber. For more information, please contact: Ophélie Martinel at: omartinel@ccfgb.co.uk or 0207 092 6634

72 - info - winter 2019

AT THE CHAMBE R - E VE NTS

ANNUAL FINANCIAL LUNCH 2018 – 10 DECEMBER

Sponsored by

FINTECH: A CATALYST FOR CHANGE? Charlotte Crosswell, CEO of Innovate Finance, was the speaker at the 22nd edition of the Annual Financial Lunch

F

or the Annual Financial Lunch 2018, sponsored by Societe Generale, guests were welcomed at the Langham Hotel with

a champagne reception and pre-meal networking.

The culture and social purpose of Fintech is naturally attracting a more diverse workforce

They then took their seats to hear a welcome speech from Fabienne Viala, President of the French Chamber, and a

products and financial inclusion. ‘However, fintech’s success

description of the menu from its designer, Chef Albert Roux

depends as much on those people working within it, as it does

OBE.

on those external factors such as regulators or policy makers

The topic of the speech that ninety attendees gathered to

that have encouraged this growth,’ she says.

hear was 'the power of diversity in the new world of financial

The importance of people gives rise to the importance of

services', given by Charlotte Crosswell, CEO of Innovate

diversity, where awareness is now not enough. ‘The dialogue

Finance, a membership association representing the UK’s

has shifted, and is now geared towards action, ensuring the

global FinTech community. She was welcomed to the stage by

change actually happens,’ says Crosswell.

Philippe Robeyns, COO EMEA at Societe Generale.

Fintech and its approach to diversity The UK and London are well known for its world class financial

‘Gender diversity statistics in Fintech are not as progressive as we would necessarily expect or want them to be. The wave of founders who have come out of banking has been predominantly male,’ she says.

services sector but this industry does not stand isolated from

This extends to the venture capital firms where only 13

the thriving and entrepreneurial ecosystem in which it resides.

percent of senior decision makers in venture capital firms are

‘Often the city’s financial hub has been boosted by expertise

women. Reflected in the investments made across industries,

and innovation drawn in from adjoining industries such as the

only 2.2 percent in 2017 in the US were made to female

technology sector,’ says Croswell.

founders.

This interconnectivity has seen a boom in the growth of

However, diversity makes commercial sense. ‘It has a proven

the UK Fintech industry. Innovate Finance recently produced

impact on the bottom line, and a direct return on investment’,

a report with WPI Economics which highlights that the fintech

says Crosswell.

sector is set to top 100,000 employees in the UK by the year

The French Chamber would like to thank Societe Generale

2030, with 30,000 new jobs created. This is driving investment

for sponsoring once again this event; Les Vins du Médoc and

and innovation across the UK, and bringing services closer to

Les Vins de Pessac-Léognan for the wines; the Langham

the main consumer.

Hotel for hosting the event; and Chef Albert Roux OBE for

It is in this manner encouraging a greater diversity in

attending and designing the menu. I SL

info

- winter 2019 - 73

FBBA THE FRANCO-BRITISH BUSINESS AWARDS

2018

Monday 26 November 2018 - The Langham Hotel

An evening of celebration, to honour those who have proven their business to be the most innovative and successful: the Franco-British Business Awards Ceremony was once again a night to remember.

F

rance and Britain both produce their fair share of innovative and successful blue chip companies and start-ups. The Franco-British Business Awards, launched in 2000 under

the high patronage of the French Ambassador to the UK and the British Ambassador to France, aim to capture this spirit and celebrate the most innovative and successful Franco-British companies. Both embassies were present on the evening of the ceremony, represented by Jean-Christophe Donnellier, Minister Counsellor for Economic Affairs at the French Embassy, and Oriel Petry, Minister-Counsellor, Department for International Trade, at the British Embassy.

Hosted for the first year at the Langham Hotel, guests were greeted with a champagne reception before being asked to take their seats for a welcome speech by Stephen Burgin, Deputy President of the French Chamber.

more freedom to move.

Burgin commented on the popularity of the awards, with 29

Katie Medlock, Managing Director UK for Drivy says ‘It has

applications for 2018, and introduced the new category, the CSR

been a big year for Drivy. We’re a French Company started in

Award, mentioning the importance of firms who embrace their

2010, but only launched in the UK 1 year ago. Our aim is to have

responsibility to the social environment, consumers, employees,

fewer cars on the road and we do that by encouraging every car

local communities and other stakeholders in the public sphere.

to be shared.’

He highlights the renewed significance of the awards when

‘They’ve done a fantastic job of really adapting the product to

viewed in light of the current context of Brexit. This context

the UK market, and that’s what this award is all about,’ says Laura

‘emphasises the relevance of our Franco-British ties and values,

Citron, CEO of London & Partners, on presenting the award.

regardless of the future of the UK and the EU.’ Following the opening speech, the gastronomic dinner was

Sustainability Award: Barjane

served, accompanied with delicious wines kindly provided by Les

Providing logistics with a difference, Barjane designs, develops

vins du Médoc and Les vins de Pessac-Léognan. The awards were

and manages bespoke, sustainable and value-creating logistics

then presented.

buildings for blue chip customers, their employees, territories

Start-Up & SME award: Drivy

and the planet.

Beatrice Bigois, Managing Director Customers, EDF Energy

Drivy took the lead in a close run race in this category, full of

presented the award, saying ‘We chose Barjane because they

innovative start-ups and concepts.

have chosen to embed sustainability at the heart of everything

Already the leading car sharing platform in Europe, they count

they do in a tough competitive environment.’

two million users and more than 50,000 cars in 6 countries on

‘Sustainable for us means choosing materials and developing

their platform, with a dedication to bringing fresh air to cities and

buildings that can be used for many years. This is the first award

74 - info - winter 2019

E VE NT S – AT THE CHAMBE R

that we have received in the UK so thank you,’ says Julie Barlatier

offers some words of wisdom: ‘Be professional, be enthusiastic,

Prieuret, Managing Director of Barjane.

be kind.’

Corporate Social Responsibility Award: Dassault Systèmes

Coup de Coeur Award: Ekimetrics

An enthusiastic presenting team and CSR embedded into

presentation of their projects and activities, Ekimetrics was the

the fabric of the business, was the reason behind this choice,

applicant that captured the hearts of the Jury. Ekimetrics works

according to Olivier Morel, Partner – Head of International at

with its clients to solve the most difficult Go-to-Market analytical

Cripps, who presented the award. Dassault Systèmes, ‘the

challenges and builds bridges between business, analytics, data

3DEXPERIENCE Company’, offers 3D universes to companies and

& technology.

individuals, allowing them to imagine sustainable innovations in order to harmonise products, nature and life.

Quentin Michard, CEO of Ekimetrics says, ‘It’s been a journey for Ekimetrics in the UK for four years. We try to engage all

The award was accepted by Marie-Pierre Aulas, General Manager at La Fondation Dassault Systemes.

Rewarding a company that impressed the jury members with the

‘At Dassault

companies to be part of the fantastic journey of AI and all the data in the landscape.’

Systèmes we believe that digital universes can help to change the world and winning this award is a great example of how we can help people,’ she says.

French Chamber Award: Econocom

The French Chamber would like to offer special thanks to our main sponsor, London & Partners, and our supporting sponsors, Cripps & EDF Energy. Many thanks also go to our Jury members for their support and time dedicated.

This award recognises a company which has significantly

We would also like to thank our prize donors for their

contributed to the Chamber over the past year, through its

generous contributions: Air France, L’Atelier des Chefs, Caviar

support and involvement in the Chamber’s activities. Econocom

Petrossian, Club Med, Crowe, Hyatt Regency London – The

is a Corporate member of the Chamber, attending and sponsoring

Churchill, the London Philharmonic Orchestra, Microsoft

events, contributing articles in INFO magazine, advertising, and

for Startups, Theodo, Tilkee, Verdier & Co. Corporate

with a representative on the Advisory Council.

Advisory, and Vranken Pommery.

Econocom strives to be a pioneer of digital services, offering

Last but not least, we would like to thank our close partners:

solutions such as 'as-a-service' subscriptions and ‘payment-over-

Les vins du Médoc and Les vins de Pessac-Léognan for the

time’. Chris Labray, Managing Director UK & Ireland at Econocom,

wines; and the Langham Hotel for hosting the event. I

Winners of the Franco-British Business Awards 2018 From L. to R.: Laura Citron, Chief Executive Officer, London & Partners; Olivier Morel, Partner, Cripps; Julie Barlatier-Prieuret, Managing Director, Barjane International Group (Sustainability Award); Chris Labrey, Managing Director UK & Ireland, Econocom (French Chamber Award); Katy Medlock, UK Country Manager, Drivy (Start-Up & SME Award); Marie-Pierre Aulas, General Manager, La Fondation Dassault Systèmes (CSR Award); Stephen Burgin, DeputyPresident, French Chamber of Great Britain; Quentin Michard, President, Ekimetrics (Coup de Coeur Award), Béatrice Bigois, Managing Director Customers, EDF Energy

Main sponsors

Supporting sponsors

info

- winter 2019 - 75

AMBASSADOR’S BRIEF – 29 OCTOBER

A view on future relations F

ifty-three guests were warmly welcomed to the French Residence for an enlivening presentation by the French

Ambassador to the United Kingdom, HE Mr Jean-Pierre Jouyet, in October. The theme of the talk was on the impact of Brexit on Europe and the Franco-British relationship, which together with a discussion with the Ambassador was held under Chatham House rules.

The assembled guests were comprised of the main representatives from Patron and Corporate members, including the Chamber President Fabienne Viala, Chairman of Bouygues UK. The event was moderated by Peter Alfandary, Senior Vice President of the Chamber.

support of our organisation and its members. We would

The Chamber would like to warmly thank the French Ambassador for kindly hosting this event and for his continued

also like to thank the staff of the French Embassy and the Residence for their kind hospitality. I

BREAKFAST SEMINAR WITH ON5 – 19 NOVEMBER

People, Planet and Profit N

early 60 participants gathered for this morning seminar, sponsored

by ON5 Group, on the increasingly important question of climate change and the need for a sustainable approach to business.

Jean-Philippe Verdier, Chairman of the Chamber’s Climate Change Forum, first took to the floor, to comment on the impact of climate change on investment trends, and its growing relevance to financial decisions.

The end user In

CEO,

focus to the end user as it is cheaper

business. The value of a company should

Economie d’Energie SAS, realised that, at

2003,

Myriam

Maestroni,

to keep a client loyal than to attain new

also take into account how they reduce

the liquid petroleum gas (LPG) company

clients. In 2004, she took the radical step

negative externalities.

at which she worked, they were losing

of suggesting the company helps clients

‘We can secure profit but not at the

more customers than they were gaining

save energy and therefore money. She

expense of people and the planet. This is

for fossil fuels. Customers had started to

looked beyond the simple ‘price/product’

the core of sustainability and sustainable

look deeper into how much they would

equation and realised that intangibles

development,’ says Maestroni. ‘People,

allocate to their energy budgets. ‘End

can create value.

Planet and Profit’ can combine in a

users have become more empowered

‘It is a frustrating assumption that

business to ensure all parties can

because we can know everything when

what we did in the past, we need to

win – the company, society and the

we want about anything thanks to the

continue doing in order to maintain

environment. ‘The patterns in the old

internet,’ she says.

value,’ says Maestroni. With this new

economy are not the same, which is

value

mindset, companies can start to look

where the new economy is rooted,’ she

proposition of the company should shift

beyond the material value of their

says. I

She

surmised

76 - info - winter 2019

that

the

E VE NT S – AT THE CHAMBE R

SEMINAR WITH ECONOCOM– 2 NOVEMBER

Digital Reality A

t

Microsoft’s

live

physical can co-exist and interact in

participants

real time. The Hololens is a hero device

experienced the new concept of mixed

for mixed reality, which enables this

reality. Welcomed with prosecco and

interaction.

demo

area,

Paddington sixty

canapés, the technologies that the

Chris Labrey, Managing Director UK

participants had the chance to test

& IRL at Econocom, and David Gregory,

were first explained through a series of

Head of Innovation, JTRS | Econocom,

presentations.

explained how consumer attitudes have

Joe Varrasso, HoloLens Partner Lead, Mixed

Reality

Commercial

changed from purchasing products,

Business

to relying on services. Econocom’s

EMEA, explained the concept behind

proposition of a subscription based

the HoloLens as ‘a new paradigm to

access to the headset and associated

The participants tried the headsets out

transform how we interact with the

apps would allow companies the benefits

for size to test these theories, with the

world.’

of usage, with none of the restrictions

four live demo rooms offering different

of ownership. It allows flexibility and

uses for the technology, created by start-

continual evolution dependent on your

ups Theoris, Immersiv.oi, Immersion and

use of the tech.

HoloForge.

The technology has evolved from virtual

reality,

providing

complete

immersion in a digital world, and augmented reality, in which digital and

Mixed reality can be used in many

The Chamber would like to thank

physical can co-exist but not interact.

ways, enhancing human decision making

Econocom for their kind sponsorship of

Now, with mixed reality, digital and the

and allowing a change in perspective.

this interactive event. I

WOMEN NETWORK EVENT – 22 NOVEMBER

Women’s rights T

he high ceilings of the Lansdowne Club echoed with the

been made in women’s rights, suggesting that we shouldn’t

sounds of networking on 22 November as the traditional

‘look at what hasn’t been achieved with a glass half empty

private club welcomed 100 participants for the Women Network

outlook’, but instead we should look to the ‘glass half full with

event, kindly sponsored by Joffe & Associés.

achievements.’

The choice of location for this event was particularly relevant,

She commented on the surprising fact that married French

with the Lansdowne opening as a social club in 1935 to both

women only obtained the right to work without their husband's

men and women, unusual for the time.

consent in 1965. For the men in the audience, she highlighted

Following a Champagne reception, Wassime Haouari, Events Manager at the Chamber, welcomed Stephanie Milano, Managing Partner for Joffe & Associés.

Milano gave a positive overview of the progress that has

the importance of paternity leave, which demonstrates evolving mentalities and the shared responsibilities of parenting life.

Onto the performance of ‘Adult Orgasm Escaped the Zoo’.

Vanina Arias played a suffering house wife with gusto and perfect comic timing. A serious feminist theme cleverly turned on its head with humour, it was written by Dario Fo, recipient of the 1997 Nobel Prize in Literature, and Franca Rame.

The announcement of raffle winners in aid of the charity ‘Rights of Women’ rounded off the evening. Prizes were a private Masterclass and Champagne Reception at Vacheron Constantin, a gift box from Caviar Petrossian, a private guided tour of 'Les Caves du Louvre' with premium wine tasting and two bottles of Champagne Drappier.

The Chamber would like to express their thanks to Joffe & Associés for co-organising and sponsoring this unique event. I

info

- winter 2019 - 77

Sponsored by:

BEHIND THE HEADLINES – 30 NOVEMBER

A future special relationship?

T

he second edition of Behind the Headlines took place at L’Institut

Français, on the topic of 'France and

the UK: political leadership in a comparative analysis and the future of our special relationship'.

Olivier Morel, Vice President of the French Chamber, represented the Chamber in welcoming all participants in his opening speech. Claudine RippertLandler, Director of L’Institut Français, then said a few words welcoming everyone to the médiatheque itself.

Chaired by Philippe Chalon, Director of External Affairs at International SOS and Managing Director of the Cercle d’outre-Manche, the views of

thoughts on how relations between

book, authored by Sophie Pedder, to

Florentin Collomp, UK correspondent

France and the UK would potentially

commemorate the event.

for Le Figaro, and Sophie Pedder,

progress.

The Economist's Paris Bureau Chief,

The Chamber would like to thank:

Both before and after the debate,

L’Institut Francais for hosting once

were representative of the Franco-

the 40 guests indulged in a selection

again; PAUL UK for the breakfast; and

British slant of the debate. Held under

of treats from PAUL UK who kindly

Philippe Chalon for his kind support in

Chatham House Rules, their expertise

partnered the event. Guests also had

organising the event. I

shone through as they shared their

the opportunity to purchase a signed

SAY CHEESE & WINE – 12 NOVEMBER

The finer things T

he French and the British have a common love of good wines

As the name of their boutique would suggest, they were

and cheese. The 8th edition of ‘Say Cheese and Wine’ once

well equipped to kindly provide the first element from the event

again exemplified this shared passion, gathering 30 participants

title, the cheese. Wine Story, represented by Director Thibault

at the premises of La Cave à Fromage, in their South Kensington

Lavergne, provided the complementary wines to ensure the

shop.

second part of this winning combination was catered for.

Not just limited to a standard tasting, the participants were treated to the story behind each aspect of the gastronomic pairings. David Deaves, General Manager representing La Cave à Fromage and Thibault Lavergne, Director at Wine Story, described both the origins of their products and how the flavours of the wines and cheeses complemented one another.

Prizes of a tasting session for two and a magnum of wine were then announced, kindly provided by La Cave à Fromage and Wine Story respectively.

Many thanks to both for partnering once again on this event. I

78 - info - winter 2019

FORTHCOMING EVENTS

12

February

CORPORATE COCKTAIL AT HOME HOUSE At Home House, 20 Portman Square, Marylebone, London W1H 6LW Open only to Corporate member’s Main Representatives and Luxury Club members

18.30 - 21.00

The French Chamber of Great Britain and the private members’ club, Home House, are delighted to invite Corporate and Luxury Club members to an exclusive event in the club’s stunning neo-classical Front Parlour and Eating Room.

For further information, contact Lauriane Véron at: lveron@ccfgb.co.uk or 020 7092 6670

6

March 08.00 - 10.00

Sponsored by:

Hosted by: BREAKFAST WITH JOHN KITCHINGMAN At Hotel Café Royal, 10 Air St, Soho, London W1B 4DY £40+VAT single participation, £60+VAT special price for two Open to all members Guest speaker: John Kitchingman, Managing Director, EuroNorth, at Dassault Systèmes

John Kitchingman joined Dassault Systèmes in early 2018, following a successful 15-year career at IBM where he held senior roles covering the Oil & Gas, Automotive, Aerospace & Defence, Electronics and Manufacturing industries. Most recently he was Global Sales Leader for Automotive and Aerospace & Defence, responsible for multibillion dollars of business across IBM globally, defining and driving a programme that returned these industries to sustainable growth.

For further information, contact Leïla Hafez at: lhafez@ccfgb.co.uk or 020 7092 6644

13

March

EXCLUSIVE TOUR OF CHRISTIAN DIOR: DESIGNER OF DREAMS At Victoria and Albert Museum, Cromwell Rd, Knightsbridge, London SW7 2RL Open only to Patron members main representatives, by invitation only

18.30 - 20.30

Join us to experience a private tour of « Christian Dior: Designer of Dreams » exhibition.

A chance to discover or rediscover the renowned French couturier and his remarkable creations.

For further information, contact Lauriane Véron at: lveron@ccfgb.co.uk or 020 7092 6670

info

- winter 2019 - 79

21

LONDON LUXURY THINK TANK 2 At Spring Studios, 10 Spring Pl, Kentish Town, London NW5 3BH

Host partner:

March

The French Chamber of Great Britain is organising the second edition of its London Luxury Think Tank on the theme of ‘Ethical & Sustainable Luxury’.

This one day event will feature three in-depth panels and debates as well as inspirational keynote talks from prominent speakers. It is an exclusive opportunity to share expertise and best practice but also to meet, influence and network with a targeted audience of 200 senior executives in the global luxury goods and services market.

For further information and sponsorship opportunities, contact Wassime Haouari at: whaouari@ccfgb.co.uk or 020 7092 6642

26 March

DINER DES CHEFS WITH MICHEL ROUX JR At The Langham Hotel, 1C Portland Pl, Marylebone, London W1B 1JA £120+VAT single participation, £1100+VAT table of 10, Open to all members

19.00 - 22.30

Do not miss the opportunity to meet Michel Roux Jr, owner and Chef of the prestigious Roux at the Landau and to be inspired by his creativity and legendary culinary expertises.

For further information, contact Leïla Hafez at: lhafez@ccfgb.co.uk or 020 7092 6644

4

June

DINER DES CHEFS AT BELMOND LE MANOIR AUX QUAT’SAISONS At Belmond Le Manoir aux Quat’Saisons £130+VAT, Open to all members

17.00 - 23.00

Join us to discover Raymond Blanc OBE’s culinary talents and be part of a ‘unique dining experience’ while networking with business contacts from a wide range of Member Companies.

For further information, contact Leïla Hafez at: lhafez@ccfgb.co.uk or 020 7092 6644

80 - info - winter 2019

PRACTICAL REFLECTIONS ON THE FRENCH AND BRITISH IN BUSINESS

“Fascinating bilingual guide... full of shrewd insights into both sides’ codes.”

- THE FINANCIAL TIMES

£6

Meetings may not start until the most senior person arrives.

Meetings start on time.

A meeting is a debate.

A meeting is a process.

Latecomers enter, shake hands with everyone present, and then sit down.

“Non c’est impossible” – often means “start convincing me”.

•••

Latecomers slip in quietly, apologise and sit in the nearest available seat.

“No, I’m afraid that it really is impossible” usually means just that. Non-negotiable.

• • •

Patron Members of the French Chamber in Great Britain

Today’s London and the London of tomorrow thrives with over 10 million people on any given day speaking 233 languages, connecting capital, tech and talent and enabling businesses to grow.

Join them and be part of our future.

Want to learn more?

Every year London & Partners helps hundreds of international companies set up and grow in London.

Take advantage of our free advice and assistance.

Visit us at business.london @L_Pbusiness