QFirstly, thank you for taking the time to speak with us, Aurélie. To begin, could you tell us a little about your career journey and what originally led you to join VITEC?
Aurélie: I joined VITEC in a junior role somewhere between sales and marketing because I wasn’t quite sure which direction I wanted to take. I quickly realized marketing was the right fit for me, and I’ve never looked back. Over the years, I’ve worked on many different projects, from events and communications to global marketing initiatives. I’ve learned a lot, met great people, and enjoyed being part of VITEC’s journey.
QYou’ve not long celebrated an impressive milestone, 20 years with the company. Congratulations! Looking back, how has your role evolved during that time, and how has the business changed around you?
Aurélie: My role has evolved quite a bit over the years. Early on, I was focused on delivering marketing activities and supporting individual projects. Today, while I still enjoy being involved in the details, a much bigger part of my role is about setting direction, supporting the team, working across business units, and making sure marketing contributes to wider business goals.
The business has also changed significantly. VITEC has become a more global and diverse organization, serving a wider range of markets and customers. Marketing has evolved alongside that growth, adapting to different industries, products, and regional needs.
That’s probably what I enjoy most. The variety of markets, customers, and people I work with means no two days are ever the same, and there’s always something new to learn.
QWhat does a typical day in your role at VITEC look like?
Aurélie: There isn’t really a typical day, and that’s what I enjoy most. One day I might be discussing strategy, the next planning an event, reviewing campaigns, or working with teams around the world. I also spend a lot of time bringing people together and making sure we’re all working towards the same goals. The variety keeps things interesting.
QFrom your experience, which aspects of your role do you find the most rewarding, and which have presented the biggest challenges?
Aurélie: The most rewarding part is seeing ideas turn into successful projects and knowing they’ve made a real impact on the business. I also enjoy helping team members grow and develop over time.
The biggest challenge is balancing multiple priorities across different topics, teams, and regions while adapting to constant change. But that’s also what makes the role so engaging.
QWhen you’re not at work, how do you like to spend your free time?
Aurélie: Outside of work, I enjoy spending time with family and friends and finding opportunities to switch off from my daily routine. Whether it’s discovering a new place, enjoying a good meal, or simply relaxing, I value the moments that help me recharge and gain a fresh perspective.
QFinally, can you tell us something people may not know about you?
Aurélie: Many people know me through marketing projects, events, and meetings, but they may not know that I’m a bit of a travel addict. I love discovering new cultures, and I’m fascinated by languages, so I always try to learn a few local words wherever I go.
During a recent trip to Peru, I learned about the Quechua concept of ayni, which is built around mutual support and the idea of “today for you, tomorrow for me”. It really struck me because it says so much about the importance of community in Andean culture. Moments like that are one of the reasons I love travelling. They remind me that languages are much more than words; they’re a window into how people live and think.
People are often surprised to learn that when I travel, I usually go backpacking and leave as much room as possible for spontaneous adventures and changes of plan. It’s probably the complete opposite of how I approach marketing!
Travelling is also when I do my best to switch off my planning mode and be more spontaneous… although my next trip is usually being planned before the current one is over!
