Jean-Francois Heuse
Here at the MaastrichtMBA, we love our alumni and enjoy staying in touch! We recently caught up with class of 2014 alumni Jean-Francois Heuse and his role as Sales Director for Europe, Russia and Africa.
FAST FACTS
- Name: Jean-Francois Heuse
- Started: September 2011
- Graduated: December 2014
- Nationality: Belgian
- Company: Sekisui S-Lec Europe BV
- Function: Sales Director Europe-Africa-Russia & Global Key Account Manager
WHY DID YOU WANT TO GET AN MBA?
Since my youth at the University of Liège (Belgium) or in Salamanca (Spain), I always had this secret dream to do an MBA because it seemed to me to be the “top” for a business student. Later on, I only heard positive comments from colleagues and friends who did an MBA – in terms of learning, getting a wider business view and meeting people from all over the world.
WHY DID YOU CHOOSE THE MAASTRICHTMBA IN PARTICULAR?
Working in Roermond (The Netherlands) and living in Liège, it was simply the best location to do it. In addition, the MaastrichtMBA acquired a very good reputation in the last few years among others schools also proposing MBAs.
WHAT WAS YOUR MOST CHALLENGING MOMENT?
To manage my company sales in Europe, Russia and Africa and finding the time to do all the MBA homework.
CAN YOU EXPLAIN WHAT YOU DO NOW AND WHERE?
Since June of 2012 I am in charge of all Sekisui S-Lec (European Division) sales in Europe, Russia and Africa as the Sales Director in our company. I also have the role of Global Key Account Manager with worldwide responsibility for one of our biggest customers. My focus is to develop new products of top quality for the automotive and architectural industries. We are a pioneer company and leader in the high added value products: our goal is to have a win-win relationship with our customers and make sure each partner can grow in terms of profit and innovation.
HOW DID YOU BENEFITED FROM THE MAASTRICHTMBA?
The MaastrichtMBA offered me the chance to broaden my business skills. Sales is one part but to be an efficientsales manager you also need to learn more diversity, financial tools, corporate responsibility, etc… This was a “plus” in my learning life.
CAN YOU GIVE AN EXAMPLE OF SOMETHING THAT YOU EXPERIENCED IN THE MAASTRICHTMBA THAT HELPED YOU IN YOUR CAREER?
Our European slogan is: “Let’s enjoy all together”. Then you can imagine the link between some modules learned during the MBA and my job today. The Leadership Development Trajectory was, and still is, really important for me. It stimulated a self-awareness about my impact at work which has been key to making sure the job is done correctly.