“What makes the difference in our industry is the quality and the reputation of the trade show we are working for.”
Nice Premium: Introduce us to the company you work for and your role within it?
Eve Puertolas: I work for the multinational REED EXHIBITIONS S.A, the world leader in organizing professional trade shows, which organizes over 450 trade shows around the world each year. For the past two years, I have held the position of Sales Executive and Show Coordinator for the “Expo Reclam” trade show in the promotional and corporate gift sector, as well as for the “Intermercería” trade show, a professional event in the sewing and crafts sector.
NP: What have you done since you graduated? What is your professional background?
EP: During my final year at the IPAG Paris Business School, I decided to move to Spain. I did my final internship in Barcelona, in the Marketing Department of the Blue Water Shipping subsidiary in Spain. Once I graduated in July 2005, I searched for work in the Catalonia region via the internet and was finally hired by Reed Exhibitions in September 2005.
NP: Have you always wanted to work in this field, or is it the result of opportunities?
EP: It’s purely a coincidence. I was looking for a position in the fashion sector and that’s what led me to work for the sewing trade show organization.
NP: What is your educational background, and what degree(s) have you obtained?
EP: Holder of a BTS in Business Action in June 2002.
Admitted directly into the second year at IPAG Paris Business School in September 2002. Graduated from IPAG Paris Business School in July 2005.
NP: What is the image of the students from your former school within your professional environment?
EV: They are young people who are very well-prepared, professional, and have very good knowledge of professional life, acquired through internships during their studies.
NP: What advice would you give to students considering a career in your sector? In your opinion, is it better to start with SMEs or large organizations?
EP: I think there are no rules; the more well-known the companies, the more it helps. As for experience itself, what makes the difference in our sector is the quality and reputation of the trade show you work for.
NP: Why did you choose to work internationally?
EP: Because I think good opportunities are more numerous in a country that is not your own. In the end, as an expatriate, you become an atypical profile that some companies are looking for.
NP: Currently, what are your career prospects and professional aspirations?
EP: To stay in the events sector, possibly with my current company but in another country, I have a strong preference for Asia.
NP: Would you like to add something?
EP: You have to move, discover, and take advantage when you’re young, and free to fill yourself with new experiences.
For more information about Reed Exhibitions: www.reediberia.com
