Home>Olivier, International Security
22.03.2019
Olivier, International Security
Olivier Lallement studied International Security at PSIA with concentrations on Intelligence and Africa. His first semester was strongly focused on studying international relations, Law and governance. Then He slowly moved to Defense and Security subjects during the following semesters. Olivier is currently International Sales and Business Development Manager at Safran Electronics & Defense.
How did you secure this role?
I did two internships at the French Ministry of Défense during my studies at Sciences Po. Realizing I would need more private-sector knowledge, I enrolled in an executive Master at Université Paris II Panthéon-Assas, meanwhile doing an apprenticeship at Safran E&D. I built a satisfying professional network during this year and managed to get a permanent position as Sales and BD Manager.
What is your role and main responsibilities?
I am taking care of sales for some of the company's key accounts for Land vehicles equipment. I only work with export customers, so it makes me travel the world a few times a month.
My main responsibilities include :
- Ensure international development of the company's businesses worldwide on Land vehicles equipments.
- Lead responses to Requests for Proposal ("appels d'offre") from foreign countries and companies, in coordination with Safran E&D's industrial and programmatic teams.
- Draft and negotiate contract terms and conditions with customers.
- Promoting Safran E&D's solutions and services towards prospective customers.
What is the most fascinating and/or surprising aspect at your role?
One of the most motivating drives to my work is its geopolitcal aspect. Selling Defense & Security product is highly regulated worldwide and deeply controlled on the national and transnational levels. This type of products being highly strategic for any country, especially France, I need to participate often in meetings at the French Ministry of Defense, talking about strategic topics. This is really fascinating.
How did your PSIA experience help you with the role?
PSIA, and Sciences Po as a whole, gave me the curiosity and the knowledge that are necessary to comprehend the international political dynamics amongst global actors of defense industry worldwide.
PSIA enabled me to think beyond the criticism towards the stereotypical "arms dealer" and see the true implications of defense industry in France and abroad, far from what we usually hear about it daily.
What advice would you give to others?
I would advise students not to neglect the deep relevance of networking. Sciences Po is a wonderful place to meet fellow students or professors that may help you in your career, or at least surely know someone that can help you. I had previously no contact in the French Defense industry other than the ones I got by myself during my last year of studies at Sciences Po. My advice is: don't be shy, go to people, they will be delighted to help you (also, people usually love talking about themselves).
