Luis Raul Martinez

“Mexico City-born relationship-builder, HEC alum, Paris-based – people first, impact-driven, gritty and always up for fun” 

Class / Grad Year: MBA, Class of 2020

Current Employer / Role: Global Retail Performance Director, Chloé (joined 2021).

Is this the industry and role you envisioned yourself in upon entering the program?

No – I arrived at HEC dreaming of aviation. HEC opened new horizons: thanks to my friends who led the Luxury Club, I discovered luxury and found my place in Paris.

Why was HEC Paris and their MBA program the right fit for you among all of the options out there?

HEC gave me a European runway: deep corporate access, an influential alumni network, and the opportunity to test new paths. It’s an MBA for explorers who want both credibility and the space to pivot.

How has the program helped you grow personally or professionally since graduating?

I pulled a triple jump: Mexico City → Paris, chemicals → luxury, procurement → global sales – all during COVID. Professionally sharper and personally bolder: more confident, more international, and a fuller 360° profile. I joined to learn and build.

What’s a standout moment or memory from your time at HEC Paris that really stuck with you?

MBAT – producing a three-day, 1,500-person event with themed parties, sports and a masquerade gala. Tremendous pressure for me and my amazing team, huge joy, and proof I can deliver at scale. I’m not sure I will ever organize something of this caliber (and budget)!

How did you balance your work/school/home life during your degree? What were the biggest challenges?

Balance wasn’t achieved – I leaned in. I joined many extracurriculars because they were transformative. My advice: pick activities that build a unique, value-adding profile.

What are some of the biggest takeaways or skills you gained from the MBA experience?

People skills became my superpower. HEC amplified my ability to build genuine, lasting relationships – the network and friendships I made are now a core professional asset.

What is your advice for those who are considering applying to the HEC Paris MBA program?

Identify what makes you different. That distinctive trait will make your application stand out – and it will be the same thing that makes you thrive at HEC.

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