Working in France: Saurabh Srivastava, Senior Business Analyst at Ubisoft

Transitioning into a new job in a foreign country is an exciting yet daunting prospect for many professionals. Saurabh Srivastava, a Senior Business Analyst at Ubisoft in Paris, France, shares his experiences and invaluable advice for individuals embarking on similar journeys.

At Ubisoft, Saurabh plays a pivotal role in analysing business data, providing insights, and contributing to strategic decision-making processes. His path to Ubisoft was paved through diligent networking and an empirical approach to the recruitment process, which included case studies and assessments.

Tell us a bit about your journey:

I came to France for a Masters in Supply Chain and Purchasing Management (MSCPM) at Audencia Business School Nantes, after which I did an internship at Axys Consultants. I was fortunate that the internship translated into a job opportunity. Finding the right opportunity at the right time was tricky. I had to prepare case studies for the interviews, and the recruitment process required an empirical approach, practical, hands-on activities rather than just theoretical or abstract assessments.

Was it easy to find this current position?

It was quite difficult. I spent a long time networking and exploring my options before I landed this job. Even the recruitment process took around 3 weeks.

While talking about the challenges he faced during the job search, Saurabh emphasised that proficiency in French is indispensable for anyone seeking to establish themselves in France professionally. He had pushed hard to complete a B1 in French before leaving India for his Masters program, and continued to upskill and polish his French skills once he landed in France. He believes that it played a key role in landing this job.

Reflecting on his own experiences, Saurabh offers practical advice for navigating the complexities of cultural integration:

1. Master French Language Skills: Fluency in French is essential for effective communication and integration into the workplace and society.
2. Remain Open to Adaptation: Embrace change and approach new experiences with an open mind, recognising the value of cultural diversity.
3. Ask Questions and Seek Understanding: Curiosity fosters learning and facilitates smoother integration into unfamiliar environments.
4. Blend Cultures, Embrace Diversity: Embrace the best aspects of both your home culture and the French culture, while respecting and appreciating differences.
5. Stay Connected to Your Roots: Despite cultural adaptation, maintain a connection to your heritage and identity.

Saurabh Srivastava’s story exemplifies the transformative power of adaptability and cultural integration in achieving professional success in a globalised world. With determination and a willingness to learn, the possibilities for career growth and personal enrichment are limitless.