Jad Hajj

I would like to begin by expressing my deep gratitude to CMA CGM for this unparalleled opportunity.
 
My experience at HEC has been overwhelmingly positive. Coming from an engineering background and overcoming challenges in Lebanon, I had the privilege of enrolling in one of Europe's finest programs. This opened my eyes to a broader spectrum of opportunities beyond consulting in the GCC.
 
The program facilitated my seamless integration into the French system and the broader EMEA business environment, starting with a thorough introduction to the fundamentals of finance and business through the M1 program.
 
My subsequent internship at a boutique advisory firm provided me with exposure far beyond the typical for someone of my age and experience. I participated in a diverse array of transactions, from assisting European clients with international expansion through cross-border mergers and acquisitions in West Africa, North Africa, and the Middle East, to securing export financing for major infrastructure projects in West Africa, and advising European and West African governments on significant transactions.
 
This hard work led to increased responsibilities, positioning me in client-facing roles involving top management from CAC 40 companies, high-level government officials, and senior executives at major banks like Standard Chartered, Citi, and Deutsche Bank, as well as top funds in the UK, France, and the UAE.
 
I represented my company and our clients at several notable events, including the Africa CEO Forum in Rwanda, the Africa Financial Industry Summit in Togo, Abu Dhabi Finance Week in the UAE, Investopia in the UAE, the British Exporter's Association's yearly Gala in London, and the UK Export Finance West and Central Africa Trade and Investment Forum in London, and multiple UK trade missions in West Africa.
 
On the technical side, I managed tasks including business plans, valuations, value-for-money assessments, and sustainable lending questionnaires.
 
Looking ahead, I will join the MIF program to further enhance my finance skills. I plan to continue with the company that provided me with these remarkable opportunities after completing HEC, as the experience I’ve gained is truly unique for someone my age. I have been involved in significant transactions in emerging markets, working out of Paris and directly collaborating with government entities, leading companies, and renowned funds.
 
I am profoundly thankful for the support from CMA CGM that has made these experiences possible. Thank you once again.
 
Warm regards,
 
Jad