Inès Multrier
Master of Science X - HEC Entrepreneurs
It was in this Master's program that I found my true calling as an entrepreneur, and it provided me with the knowledge, skills, and confidence needed to turn my entrepreneurial aspirations into reality.
Why did you decide to join the MSc X-HEC Entrepreneurs at HEC Paris?
I decided to join the MSc X-HEC Entrepreneurs for the 360° view it gives on entrepreneurship, and for its solid cohort of alumni which I admired.
What are your biggest takeaways from your experience within the program?
I really enjoyed the first phase of the Master’s, where we get to take on a variety of missions as well as really interesting classes. Top-notch entrepreneurs are invited, and we get to interview them in a small committee: this is a real privilege given how precious their time is! Thanks to this phase, I learnt about the right mindset to have as an entrepreneur, as well as important mistakes others had made on their path to entrepreneurship, which enabled me to avoid making such mistakes (for now at least!).
Furthermore, the Master's program taught me the art of collaboration, emphasizing the importance of surrounding yourself with the right people. Learning to work seamlessly within a team, alongside passionate and like-minded individuals, was a fundamental lesson. This emphasis on teamwork and collaboration became a cornerstone in my entrepreneurial ventures, as I still work with the team that we formed within the Master’s, on solid foundations.
What is your current job? What types of responsibilities do you have?
I co-founded Nelson with 3 classmates from the Master’s. We help companies transition to electric mobility, and thus decarbonize their activity. I am Co-CTO, focusing on data topics within the tech team, and as a founder, I also work on building a team, a strategy and a vision for the company.
How did the program help define your career path and secure your job?
The Master’s created the ideal conditions for me to launch my start-up, even though I did not plan on doing so from the very start! During my Master's journey, I acquired a comprehensive understanding of entrepreneurship. The international exposure, especially the three months spent at UC Berkeley as part of the 'Learn 2 Launch' program, challenged my perspectives and honed my skills on a global scale.
To summarize, this immersive experience not only taught me the practical aspects of entrepreneurship but also instilled in me the confidence to dive headfirst into the entrepreneurial world. It was in this Master's program that I found my true calling as an entrepreneur, and it provided me with the knowledge, skills, and confidence needed to turn my entrepreneurial aspirations into reality.
What are your long-term career aspirations, and how the MSc X-HEC Entrepreneurs help you achieve those aspirations?
By immersing me in intensive, practice-based classes and seminars, the program provided me with a robust understanding of the key approaches and strategies vital for startup success. Furthermore, the emphasis on real-world applications, especially during the 'Start-up' and 'Restructuring' missions, has allowed me to develop a practical mindset crucial for entrepreneurial endeavors, the “test and learn” mindset.
Additionally, the Master's program has provided me with a valuable network of mentors, fellow entrepreneurs, and industry professionals. This network is an asset for my future endeavors, as it gives me access to a pool of knowledge, expertise, and potential collaborators. Having this network means that even beyond Nelson, I have a group of experienced individuals who I can call upon for advice and collaboration.
In essence, this Master's program has not only set up the right conditions for me to succeed in my entrepreneurial journey but has also given me a supportive community that will be precious in achieving any long-term career aspirations.
Any advice for students considering joining the MSc X-HEC Entrepreneurs and wishing to follow the same career path?
My advice to students considering joining this Master's program and aspiring to tread a similar entrepreneurial path is to seize every opportunity and be actively engaged. The resources, mentorship, and experiences provided here are rich and diverse, but their full value is realized when you actively participate, ask questions, and engage in discussions.
In addition, don't be afraid to think outside the box. Use this Master's program as a platform to explore diverse ideas, experiment with different approaches, and challenge conventional wisdom. Failure is often a stepping stone to success in entrepreneurship, so embrace it as a learning opportunity rather than a setback.
Lastly, make the most of the expert advice and mentorship available to you. Seek guidance from experienced entrepreneurs and industry experts during the juries and beyond. Their insights can provide you with invaluable advice that can shape your entrepreneurial journey.