Stephane - Hydraulics and Plant Sales Manager

The Story

It seems obvious, but career planning is important – no matter where you are in your career. Stephane has collected a broad range of experiences in a number of roles. But now, he’s focused on progressing with DNV, and has a couple of options that excite him.

What have you achieved here – before and since your return?

I had just finished my Engineering Masters when I landed a sales job here in 2013. I really enjoyed getting out from behind the desk, and was first responsible for the Middle East, Mediterranean and Africa. Then I moved to Sydney in 2016 to take on Oceania. When I re-joined in 2021, I moved into Hydraulics and Plant sales.

What did you do during your time away?

When I moved back to France in 2018 for family reasons, DNV didn’t have the right role for me. A move into explosion welding risk management was good technically, but very niche. Then, I worked in business development for an EHS software company. I had lots of freedom, but, when COVID hit, I couldn’t meet potential clients face-to-face.

Why did you come back?

The two roles away from DNV taught me the importance of thinking long-term. When I heard the Hydraulics and Plant team were looking for a Sales Manager, I jumped at the opportunity. It’s similar to my last role here, but a wider area. And while everyone is remote now – I already know much of the team from before.

When have you felt at the heart of it at DNV?

The way we’re structured helps you feel at the heart of it. You know you’re bringing value to the team. Equally, I know I can always get support from brilliant people too. In sales, this means I’m more of a partner than a supplier. Clients trust me, and I don’t have to talk up what we do.

What do you like most about working here?

It’s been great to blend my learnings outside DNV into my current role. I’ve been able to explore new areas, markets and clients – and use different methodologies. We’re a big company. But you can seed ideas and watch innovations take root. The business is investing in me too: I’ve spent a great amount of time developing my leadership skills.

What are your ambitions for the future?

DNV are opening doors for me. I’m exploring two routes right now. My current role gives me lots of customer interaction, but I could progress into management and share my experience with my own team. Or, I could become an internal project lead, using my technical expertise to promote innovations and new products.