Marylise Léon, professional degree in sales management, sales manager for Axa

Marylise Léon, who graduated fromUCO Guingamp 's Business Management program in 2010, is currently a sales manager at AXA in Ille-et-Vilaine. She supervises a team of 35 traveling sales advisors. In this interview, she looks back at her career path, the choices that have shaped it, and shares her advice for future professionals in the sector.

Can you tell us a little about your career since graduating from UCO?

After graduating from UCO in 2010 with a Bachelor's degree in Business Management (formerly Bachelor's degree in Sales Team Management), I joined AXA for a year on a sandwich course. Although this training didn't lead directly to an additional diploma, it did offer a valuable opportunity to gain hands-on professional experience. This period enabled me to put into practice the skills I had acquired during my training, and to familiarize myself with the workings of a major corporation. At the end of the year, I was offered a permanent contract with AXA, which marked the start of my career with the company.

What motivated you to choose the Business Management degree at UCO after your BTS MUC?

After my BTS in Business Unit Management (MUC), I was looking for a course that combined professionalization and accessibility. The UCO's Licence Pro MEC was an excellent compromise between a business school, which is often expensive, and a Master's degree, which requires a longer commitment. I particularly appreciated the practical, business-oriented approach of the course, as well as the diversity of students from all over Western France, which enriched my experience and broadened my horizons.

What are your current responsibilities at AXA?

I'm currently a sales manager for AXA in the Ille-et-Vilaine region. I supervise a team of 35 traveling sales advisors. My role is to steer sales activity, define objectives, support employees in their professional development and ensure customer satisfaction. It's a job that requires skills in management, sales strategy and human support.

What do you love most about your job?

What I'm most passionate about is the human dimension of management. I love recruiting new talent, watching them develop, blossom and achieve their goals. Accompanying employees on their career paths, helping them to overcome challenges and achieve their full potential is extremely gratifying. It's this dynamic of growth and development that motivates me every day.

What advice would you give to current students of the Business Management degree?

I'd advise them to stay true to themselves. In sales, it's essential to retain your personality and develop your own professional identity. Technical skills are important, but it's your authenticity, your ability to build trusting relationships and understand customer needs that will make the difference.

Be curious, open to opportunities and don't hesitate to step out of your comfort zone to progress!