Inspiring Entrepreneurship: An Evening with Marc Chaya, CEO of Maison Francis Kurkdjian at HEC Paris

On the evening of January 16th, 2025, HEC Paris was honored to host an exclusive conference in the Amphitheater Bellon featuring Marc Chaya, Co-founder, President, and CEO of Maison Francis Kurkdjian. This unique event, titled "Ignite Your Entrepreneurial Spirit," drew a captivated audience of 200 students eager to gain insights into the luxury and entrepreneurship world. The session was moderated by HEC Professor Anne Michaut, adding a layer of academic insight to the engaging discussion.

During the event, Marc shared the remarkable journey of Maison Francis Kurkdjian, which has emerged as a global luxury phenomenon since its inception in 2009. His narrative was not just about scent but also about the essence of luxury, innovation, and sustainable growth within the prestigious LVMH portfolio.

Addressing the audience, Marc emphasized the importance of responsible luxury and environmental consciousness in today's business practices. He highlighted the paradox of excessive packaging in the luxury sector, urging future leaders to advocate for sustainability. "How can we have a future if we continue destroying the planet we live in?" he asked, challenging the students to think critically about their roles as both executives and consumers.

The event not only illuminated the successful strategies behind Maison Francis Kurkdjian but also inspired HEC students to embody the entrepreneurial spirit that drives France’s luxury sector forward. It was an evening of profound insights and inspiration, reinforcing the core values of entrepreneurship and innovation championed by HEC Paris and LVMH.

This memorable encounter with Marc Chaya provided the students a rare glimpse into the art of building and sustaining a brand that respects both heritage and modernity, setting a powerful example for aspiring entrepreneurs everywhere.