An Inspiring Dinner with Jean-Luc Allavena, Patron of the MBA Entrepreneurship Specialization

This fall, the HEC Paris MBA Entrepreneurship Specialization had the honor of hosting its patron, Jean-Luc Allavena, for an exceptional dinner held on the HEC campus. This unique event brought together students and Professor Michel Safars, Academic Director of the specialization, highlighting HEC Paris’s commitment to connecting students with key figures in entrepreneurship and industry.

Under the guidance of Michel Safars, the Entrepreneurship Specialization offers students both practical and theoretical frameworks to understand the fundamentals of entrepreneurship. Professor Safars, who recently received the prestigious Pierre Vernimmen Award, emphasizes teaching essential skills often absent from textbooks, such as decision-making, human dynamics, and team management. Jean-Luc Allavena shared inspiring recommendations and anecdotes on the importance of humility, resilience, and vision in building extraordinary careers – principles that resonate deeply with the values taught in the specialization.

Discussions during the event covered topics ranging from work-life balance and discipline to the impact of giving back to society. These rich and authentic exchanges allowed students to explore the human and strategic dimensions of entrepreneurship. Jean-Luc Allavena also emphasized the importance of staying humble while surrounding oneself with exceptional talent—a valuable lesson for future entrepreneurs.

This event perfectly exemplifies HEC Paris’s philosophy: combining theory, practice, and pedagogy to inspire students to become responsible and innovative leaders. Jean-Luc Allavena and Michel Safars embody this balance, each in their own way, serving as mentors, guides, and sources of inspiration. A special thanks to students Nishka Hemrajh and Thibault Roubertie, the class leads, who served as a vital link between students and Professor Safars over the course of the specialization. 

About Jean-Luc Allavena

Jean-Luc Allavena, a 1986 HEC Paris graduate, is Honorary Chairman of HEC Alumni and the HEC Foundation, as well as a member of the International Advisory Board. He is a pioneer in private equity, with over three decades of experience, including managing one of the first large buyouts in France (Techpack in 1992 with Pechiney and LBO France) and working as an investor with Apollo Management and Atlantys.

In addition to his extensive private equity background, he served as Chief Operating Officer of the Lagardère Media Group and as the first Chief of Staff of H.S.H Prince Albert II of Monaco (2005-2006). Jean-Luc Allavena is also the Honorary Chairman of the French-American Foundation and the Aspen Institute in France. Known for his leadership, philanthropy, and entrepreneurial success, he continues to inspire the next generation of leaders through his engagement with HEC Paris and other prestigious institutions.