[FEATURED MEMBER] Valérie Stéphan

Valérie Stéphan

Global Head of International Mobility
Safran

What is your role?

To contribute to Safran’s international business development by managing everything expatriation-related for 280 experts and talents from the group’s 12 companies. What sets Safran apart is that we are involved as soon as a candidate is identified and we support them throughout their assignment and until they return to their home country. We are their main point of contact.

What is your hidden talent?

My children! Since I had my twins, they have been at the core of my mindset, changing how I see the world. In both personal and professional situations, I have had to become very adaptable, generally let go in order to avoid wasting energy, prioritize, and build endurance (essential with 2 little boys). In some ways it has really rejuvenated me, physically and mentally.

What do you like the most about your job?

Working in an international context with colleagues from different countries and cultures, and the vast range of subjects that international mobility can cover. In a single day we can go from analyzing the effects of a new tax rule in Mexico to having to urgently arrange the transport of an expatriate’s cat from Xian to Shanghai.

Any advice for people new to the profession?

Do a French international business internship (VIE)! It’s a great opportunity to work abroad in a major French company, to get to know another culture, to discover other ways of thinking and to build a strong professional and personal network.

About Safran:

Safran is an international high-technology group, operating in the aviation (propulsion, equipment and interiors), defense and space markets. Its core purpose is to contribute to a safer, more sustainable world, where air transport is more environmentally friendly, comfortable and accessible. Safran has a global presence, with 79,000 employees and sales of 16.5 billion euros in 2020 and holds, alone or in partnership, world or regional leadership positions in its core markets. Safran undertakes research and development programs to maintain the environmental priorities of its R&T and Innovation roadmap. https://www.safran-group.com/group-0