Eri Takahashi 

HEC Paris

“An empathetic learner with high adaptability dedicated to solving challenges and creating a sustainable world.”

Hometown: Tokyo, Japan

Fun Fact About Yourself: I love travelling, and I have visited 48 countries so far. I am from Japan, but I also lived in Hong Kong, Germany, and the US. For the last 2.5 years, I was working in the greater Philadelphia area. I am very excited to start a new journey in France with my husband, Kota, who is also a HEC Paris class of 2026 student!

Undergraduate School and Major: Tokyo University of Foreign Studies, Bachelor of Arts – German studies

Most Recent Employer and Job Title: AGC Group, Sales and Marketing Manager

Aside from your classmates, what was the key part of HEC Paris’ MBA programming that led you to choose this business school and why was it so important to you? The well-balanced program of HEC Paris attracted me. In the first half of the program, we are able to learn fundamental business skills. The latter half is highly customizable, ranging from specializations, electives, international exchanges, and internships. Through this flexible program, I would be able to learn the basics and choose what aspects to concentrate on for my future career. Moreover, the strong alumni network in various industries was appealing to me, as I am interested in the latest trend of renewable energy and sustainable economy in Europe, which is the most advanced in the world.

What course, club or activity excites you the most at HEC Paris? HEC Paris has so much to offer, so it is very difficult to choose – however, I am very excited about the various sessions to foster leadership, such as the Outdoor Leadership Seminar and The Executive Club (TEC). One of my career goals is to be an international leader who could lead a diverse team, and these experiences will help me develop my skills to become the person that I envision.

HEC Paris is just 17 kilometers from Paris. What do you see as the best part of earning your MBA so close to Paris?  Paris is definitely one of the best cities with rich culture, fabulous culinary and dynamic international businesses. Personally, I love going to museums, so I can’t wait to visit the Louvre, Orangerie, Orsay, and Pompidou! In addition, HEC Paris is in a great location, since you are still very close to the city, but at the same time you can enjoy nature and stay away from the hustle of the city. I also like the fact that a lot of students live on-campus and get to spend the time together.

What is your unique quality that will enable you to make a big contribution to the Class of 2026?  My uniqueness is my communication skills and cross-cultural understanding that I have developed through living, studying, and working in different parts of the world. I can adapt easily to new environments. I largely value the connection with people I have met throughout my life and make an effort to keep a good relationship. I am eager to contribute to my wonderful cohorts through my characteristics!

Why did you choose a 16-month program over a one-year program? How do you see a HEC Paris MBA giving you an advantage in the marketplace? HEC’s 16-month program was ideal for me, since it gives me enough time to study fundamentals and obtain new skills, and at the same time not being out of the workforce for too long. Considering my future career and family life plans, I did not want to apply for a full two-year program. However, a one-year program also seemed too short to experience all the attractive aspects that MBAs offer. I am very happy that I was able to find a school that is a perfect fit for me!

Describe your biggest accomplishment in your career so far: I am most proud of establishing a regional sales function and designing strategic plans for hydrogen related business in the US, with a projected 200% YoY sales increase. I lead the marketing strategy planning and execution, including initiating participation in US consortiums to connect with policymakers and industry leaders. This experience has fueled my passion for creating impact for a more sustainable world. It also made me think that I would like to enhance my skillsets in order to build a strong business strategy, which led me to pursue my MBA.

Looking ahead 16 months, what would make your MBA experience successful? I would like to encourage myself to always be confident and not be afraid to accept challenges. Growing up in Japan as a woman, sometimes I felt I was treated not equally as men, which made me feel discouraged. I am willing to take leadership in the class, club activities, and MBAT so that I can become a leader who could overcome biases and discrimination. Besides, I am looking forward to connecting with my classmates and making life-long friends from diverse backgrounds!

DON’T MISS: MEET THE HEC PARIS MBA CLASS OF 2026