Constance Martiny Sondag

Describe yourself in a few words. Curious, authentic, passionate and very very humble.

What scares you? War.

Best way to spend the weekend? With family and friends, and learning or discovering something new.

Where would you most like to travel?

Japan. For the mix of cultures – tradition versus modernity – and its stunning landscapes and sights.

Favourite time of the year? Summer.

Your guilty pleasure? Dark chocolate.

What song always puts you in a good mood?

Coffee Cold by Galt MacDermot.

If you could have the answer to any question, what would you ask?

What will the world look like in 2200?

Your childhood ambition?

I wanted to be a notary – so glad I changed my mind.

Favourite book?

Patrick Süskind’s Perfume

What skill would you like to master? Learning Italian is my personal ambition for the next couple of years. Now I’ve put it out there, I feel the pressure.

What subject should be taught in schools but isn’t?

Non-violent communication.

CAREER Q&A

Describe your current job.

I’ve been VP of Sales

Northern & Southern Europe of Unite (previously Mercateo) since October 2022. I am responsible for the development and growth of this B2B e-commerce marketplace in France, the Netherlands, Belgium, Italy and Spain.

Your worst ever job?

As a student, I had a job in which I had to ask bakery customers the same 15 questions for a survey – over and over again.

If you weren’t doing your present job, what would you like to be doing?

Either a short story writer or a painter (artist, not decorator).

Best moments in your career so far?

One was getting the signature on my first contract with an OP supplier following months of prospecting. Another great moment was hiring the second employee of (then) Mercateo France after being on my own for the initial 18 months.

Your best piece of advice to someone who has just joined the industry?

Always consider the different challenges and goals of all the various stakeholders.

Best way to stay motivated and complete targets? Define clear objectives, find the fun in the challenges and encourage team spirit.

The winners of the 22nd European Office Products Awards will be announced at a presentation dinner on Monday 13 March 2023

View this year’s shortlist at www.opi.net/ EOPA2023