From a 6-month internship in 2021 to a permanent position in the “Employee Experience” department, Sophie has experienced a remarkable professional rise at T&S.
Her perseverance, adaptability, and commitment to the company's culture have enabled her to climb the ladder with determination. Her exemplary career path demonstrates that with a targeted application and unwavering determination, anything is possible.
What did you do before T&S?
Before joining T&S, I was in my 3rd year of an International Business degree at the Business and Management School EM Strasbourg.
Why and how did you join T&S?
In the summer of 2020, I was looking for a 6-month internship in Human Resources to validate my bachelor’s degree in international business. I came across an offer from T&S and was immediately interested in the positions offered in the training department. The company description also seemed very promising.
Despite some hesitation, as the offer was open to master’s students and German was a plus, I decided to apply, confident in my B2 level in German.
After applying, I was contacted by Cyrielle from the recruitment team for a phone interview. She assessed my level of German and English and asked me questions about my background. At the end of the interview, I was invited to meet the manager and the training manager for two face-to-face interviews. These interviews lasted about 30 to 40 minutes each and allowed them to assess my skills, motivations, and understanding of the positions.
I left feeling good about myself. I had enjoyed the discussions and was eagerly awaiting to hear back. Furthermore, I was hoping to be selected, as I also really liked the company's premises. However, I didn't forget that the offer was for master’s students, and that I had only sent one CV. A few days later, on a Friday afternoon, my phone rang. It was Mrs. MANGOLD, who announced that I had been selected for a 6-month internship starting in January 2021! I was so happy!
I signed the papers a few months later and joined T&S in January 2021. As they say, one CV can change everything!
What was T&S like at the time? And what has changed?
My arrival at T&S in January 2021 was marked by the pandemic: wearing masks and occasional teleworking.
The training department underwent a few changes during my internship. When I arrived, there were just two of us: Marie Journet and me. The team then grew, and we moved into new offices. Today, the training department has merged with Talent Dev' to become an even bigger and more dynamic team.
In addition, there has been a major expansion of the T&S Group with all the company takeovers since 2021. The arrival of our HR Director, Sophie Breton, has also enabled us to structure and organize our teams.
Could you describe your T&S career path?
I started at T&S as a 6-month intern in the training department. In parallel with my internship, I applied for apprenticeship positions in other companies because the position I was holding was initially not open to apprenticeships.
However, after negotiations with management, I was able to do my apprenticeship at T&S in Master 1 Management and Master 2 Human Resources at EM Strasbourg.
At the end of my apprenticeship, Sophie BRETON offered me a permanent contract in the EMPEX “Employee Experience” department, which focuses on HR administration. I wanted to stay in the training department, but I saw this offer as an opportunity to expand my skills.
I met the EMPEX department manager, and we got along well. So, I accepted the permanent contract and signed my first employment contract.
I am grateful to T&S for giving me this new opportunity!
In the end, I sent one application, and it allowed me to grow as a professional and land this permanent contract.
I would also like to thank all the people who have trusted me throughout my career.
What was your first assignment?
My first assignments with the training department were to support international new employees that were moving to Germany. I helped them find German classes at our partner schools. I also sought alternatives to have more options and create new partnerships.
Not only that, but I also contributed to the management of various training programs, from electrical certifications in France to technical training in France and Germany.
Later, I took over the apprenticeship division, which included tasks such as cost simulation, CERFA drafting, and communications with OPCO, etc.
What the first thing you learned at T&S?
One of the most important things I've learned is to adopt a professional attitude. This is largely thanks to Marie Journet, who taught me how to communicate effectively with managers and passed on to me the company's values and codes of conduct.
What are some of the challenges you've faced in your career, and how did you overcome them?
I quickly had plenty of subjects to take care of, and it wasn't always easy. Moreover, one summer I found myself alone for 1 or 2 weeks managing the department as an intern. But I succeeded with good organization, prioritization of tasks and especially never giving up, always persevering.
What are some of your most memorable experiences at the company?
I think the signing of my very first permanent contract was a turning point in my career. When I think about it, I only sent out one resume during my undergraduate studies for an internship, and it led to a two-year work-study program and then a permanent contract. It just goes to show that one application can change everything.
What are some of the things you enjoy most about working at T&S?
I particularly like the working atmosphere, as well as events like Winter Parties or Group seminars, chocolates, and other goodies.
What are some of the things you would like to see change at T&S?
In my opinion, company management would benefit from greater flexibility, especially when it comes to working hours. I believe that flexible working hours would better meet employees' needs and improve their satisfaction.
What advice would you give to someone who is just starting out in their career?
The advice I would give to someone who is just starting their career is that “hard work always pays off”.
You just need to know how to take a step back sometimes from situations or your feelings/fears. And above all, always persevere.
Finally, stay true to yourself because that's what makes you unique. There's no point in putting on an act or playing a role in front of a recruiter because your natural self will always come out in the end.
