Charles d'Haussy, Founder & Managing Director Diligent Group Ltd, Hong Kong

Could you describe the milestones of your carreer since your graduation ?
Once graduated from ESC Rennes Business School , I took a couple of months off to sail across the Atlantic, a kid dream. From Athenes to the Caribbean, that was a memorable experience.

Back in France, I was looking for a job overseas. I quickly moved to Guangzhou, China for a sales manager position within the purchase office of La foirfouille – Pier import. I learnt very quickly to deal with sourcing, product range building, inspection and shipping to international destinations. Very intense and profitable entry in the retail world.

Convinced I would stay for sometime in China, I decided to skill myself with some solid Chinese language foundations. I spent 2 semesters in the Guangzhou university learning mandarin with russians, americans, japanese and oversea chinese.

Hong Kong was my next stop. I took the challenge to launch EverFast. The company manufactures rechargeable batteries and battery chargers for consumer markets. That was an interesting switch from the buyers side to the sellers side. We served major retailers such Auchan, Carrefour, Wal-mart and large OEMs like Duracell, Polaroid, Kodak... The company was designed for OEM productions, 100% export to USA, Europe and South America.

After 5 years in the battery industry, I decided to start my own venture and founded Diligent group (Adj : working with attention and persistence). We specialize in LED lighting manufacturing and now operate a 50 people factory in Shenzhen, China. Our customers are retailers and lighting specialists spread over 25 countries. http://www.diligent.pro

What are your missions & responsabilities in your current position ?
I am managing director of Diligent, my main missions are to supervise and drive my teams on products developments, manufacturing and financial dash boards. I spend a fair amount of my time as well on business development. Young companies request hands-on working style and multi-tasking.

Which opportunities did you catch to work overseas ? Did ESC Rennes School of Business give you solid foundations ?
During my stay at Rennes Business School, I took every opportunities to mix entrepreneurship with international perspectives. From Paris' Silicon sentier, Delhi's  Euro RSCG consulting unit, Germany Industrial marketing and Canada year of study, that was all fun and intense learning. No doubt, Rennes Business School helped a lot to  spice up my resume and career.

Which differences did you notice between French and Hong Kong working culture ? Is there a pioneer spirit ?
I haven't worked enough in France to share a meaningful thought on that one. Visitors in China and HK are always surprised by the speed of decision, the way we dedicate to international markets at very early stage. Asia is welcoming the challenge of being tomorrow's world leaders, that give them the passion & energy to work harder.

How does your company responsibility act toward the environment protection ?

This is a growing concern of our customers and we are addressing that. Our LED lighting products are massive energy saver by design (90% enery saving, zero mercury).

Our suppliers are mostly within 300 km range around our factory, this limitate the transportation footprint of our productions. Logistics focus on faster and greener ways to reach our ends users.  Packaging is minimalist yet sales supportive. Our offices use lots of online software solutions, which allow us to move toward a paperless office. We are in the process of a ISO certification with a focus on green manufacturing.

Which advice would you share with alumnis willing to work in Hong Kong ?
Come with a good understanding of what your skills can bring on the top of the local talents.  Turn off your TV, drop  magazines, come visit and find out by yourself.
Hong Kong and China are regions to experience. The city's energy will surprise you.

Which memories do you keep from ESC Rennes School of Business ?
ESC Rennes Business school was for me a great immersion into international business and cultures. I truly appreciate the working session with school mates from Asia, Europe, U.S.

I recall 2 teachers from my years in Rennes. Mme Laurence Fort-Rioche & Mr Alan Darricote, teaching marketing. Both were tough and demanding, pushing the students to deliver more and impress themselves. Their from the field teaching style made a difference.

How do you see our ESC Rennes Business School Alumni network ? Are you involved ?

The main European & American Business schools got their alumni networks present and active in China and Hong Kong. Thanks to the school support and active members, Rennes' Alumni network was present early. We are today active and growing in Asia.  As soon as my agenda allows it, I join Rennes' events.

 

Which advices would you share with young alumnis and students ?
ESC Rennes Business school diploma is a complete tool box. The amount of work you will put on these tools will determine of the value you will get out of it.

Choose your boss. One of those ones who will teach & expose you the more.
 

A final word ?
Being Diligent toward your colleagues and customers offers the best careers and opportunities.