CELINE Information Session with Emma Grillet and Clara Montré
Written by Iman Salem AMT’23
On Thursday, November 17th, CELINE employees Clara Montré, Junior Collection Merchandiser and Fashion Studies Parsons Paris Alumna 2020, and Emma Grillet, Talent Development Officer did the honor to be at Parsons Romainville and livestream to Saint Roch campus during the lunch break to present an information session on their roles and requirement for future applications to more than 30 students, all majors!
Before the talk students had to fill a form that later revealed some interesting information. Out of the many students that attended, 65.5% are enrolled in the fashion design program. Most of them are interested in the positions of studio assistant, embroidery and even PR. While students from other majors are more keen to visual merchandising, curation and digital marketing positions. They also communicated the values CELINE reflects, everyone agreed on the feminine yet empowering image of the brand, however, elegance, simplicity and sophistication were also brought up.
They started with a thorough review of the company’s history and LVMH, the institution it is part of and the previous designers before Heidi Slimane. The milestones of the company were covered with an emphasis on the arrival of Heidi Slimane that marked a transition in the brand’s identity. From bringing back the symbol of the “triomphe” to reaffirming the image of the parisienne. In order to do that, strategies in brand ambassadors were implemented to establish CELINE legitimacy around the world. One thing that shouldn’t go unnoticed from this presentation is the sustainable transition of CELINE. #CELINECARES and everyday they are acting in a more caring and inclusive environment through the use of sustainable raw materials and eco-friendly packaging & products. Moreover, they have been making sure their faculties and transport were low impact throughout the supply chain and they have been relying on a unique savoir-faire.
After asking students not to share the information over the presentation for confidentiality, Emma Grillet, from the HR department, presented students with insights on mobility within the company and LVMH as well as the internship opportunities offered by CELINE. She also highlighted the importance of retail on your resume and the prominence of CELINE stores that create an immersive experience for customers. Clara Montré was very refined in sharing her journey from high school to Parsons Paris to CELINE. As Parsons Paris students, it is always helpful and inspiring to see where previous students have landed and where they are successful.
Having CELINE employees share what it’s like to world there, gave an idea of the work culture and disclaimed all negative stereotypes on working in luxury. In addition, it was inspiring for students and faculty members to get an idea of a student’s journey after Parsons Paris.
At the end of the presentation, students had the chance to ask more detailed questions such as: How was your transition from a university environment to Celine? How did Parsons prepare you for the position? What would you wish you had known before graduating? How did you affirm your own ethos while working within luxury brands? Etc…