Stephanie Thiebault
Graduate, MCom, Management
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Captivated by the dynamics of cultural differences
Stephanie Thiebault is fascinated by the dynamics around culture and management – which makes her Auckland-based job as a product manager for Japanese company Sony ideal. Especially when you consider Stephanie is herself French.
“I love working for a Japanese company. I like the culture aspect and being based in the Asia Pacific.”
Stephanie first found her way to New Zealand during an OE in 2002 and decided she would one day like to make it her home. With that goal in mind, she sought out postgraduate study options in New Zealand. At the time, Otago and her business school, ESDES in Lyon, had an exchange agreement.
“I didn’t know what to expect from Dunedin but I got excellent feedback from those who’d already been there on exchange. I have to say I was impressed by the level and quality of the teaching. It was very high.”
After a successful exchange year in 2004, Stephanie worked as an assistant brand manager for power tool and household appliance giant Bosch before deciding it was time to action her New Zealand goal. She returned to Otago to study a Master of Commerce in International Management, focused on the marketing of luxury brands.
In her current role, Stephanie is responsible for MP3 players and portable audio devices. She plans to move up through the ranks to a senior position and eventually take a step sideways into marketing.