From one of the biggest Maisons to one of the newest, Antoine’s journey in the Group has been one of growth. In this business of dreams, he brings his positivity, spreading good vibes wherever he goes.
My career journey...
I started my career 7 years ago as a VIE, where I was in charge of business development for fragrances and eyewear in the travel retail team of Cartier. I moved to several retail positions until 2019. I left my position as Area Manager for a travel retail operator to join WatchFinder as Head of Hong Kong and Macau. One of the exciting things about WatchFinder is that it is like a start-up. My day-to-day is never the same. It is constantly changing. I am in charge of business development, sales, marketing, finance, HR, etc.. to make WatchFinder shine in these cities. It is very hands-on and very entrepreneurial. We are a small team, but we have a lot of flexibility to make the dream happen!
What I have learned…
I learned a lot about the luxury industry, especially travel retail during my 6 years at Cartier. With WatchFinder, I have learned more about timepieces and the pre-owned industry. On a personal level, I learned entrepreneurship. For example, how to make the dream happen, how to be creative, and how to use the resources from Richemont to acquire more customers. It is definitely a page that you have to write for yourself with your team.
How have I changed...
Richemont has been the main employer in my career that shaped the person that I am today, both personally and professionally. In the past 7 years, I really learned a lot. On a more personal level, I moved to Hong Kong for work, but I met my wife here and I had my first son here. A lot of positive things have happened because of my choice to join the Group in Asia.
What has surprised me…
Two things deeply surprised me. The first is linked to people. It is a great feeling. I have always felt that Richemont is a sort of family regardless of the Maison or business that you work in. People are very open-minded, easy to talk to, and accessible. Everybody at every level across the Group that I have discussed with has been really nice. I truly believe that people are one of the key assets of the Group. The second is that the Group is giving everyone a chance to shine. As long as you are motivated and up for the challenge, the Group will offer you opportunities and trust you to succeed.
My favourite Richemont memory…
I remember my first annual dinner with the team. I had only been working for the Group and living in Hong Kong for a few months. It was a great opportunity to get to know better my colleagues, teams and managers while having fun. I remember the theme was Casino Royale and everyone dressed accordingly. It was a fun and relaxed event. Great memory!
Wise words I live by:
Teamwork makes the dream work – We go together towards the same goal. We succeed together. We are stronger together.