Fabienne Lupo, President of the Foundation de la Haute Horlogerie, is a lady whose name and reputation precede her. Not because she holds a high power job in a seemingly male dominated industry, but because of the strides she has made throughout her career. She is a powerful woman in a Watch’ world!
All along, she never lost sight of what is important in life and what it means to be a woman. Fabienne embraces her femininity and the gentleness that accompanies it. Her aim is to spread the message about the fine craft of watchmaking while creating a safe environment for everyone around her, no matter their gender .
Quickly about the Foundation of Haute Horlogerie (FHH)
“Established in Geneva in 2005 by three founders (the Richemont Group, Audemars Piguet and Girard Perregaux) to promote Fine Watchmaking internationally. The Foundation, through its activities, fosters and promotes Fine Watchmaking’s values of creativity, culture and tradition. The Fondation de la Haute Horlogerie is active in the three areas of information, training and Think Tank.”
INTERVIEW QUESTIONS:
What was your dream job as a kid and why?
I wanted to be an actress. I liked the idea of playing different people with different lives, having a new role each time.
Can you describe your job and what it entails?
In all modesty, I see myself as a kind of minister or an apostle taking the message of fine watchmaking into the world to enhance its desirability.
Define a leader. What are some traits you think great leaders possess?
All good leaders are human first. They believe in their dreams, and are able to get everyone behind them thanks to their energy and courage.
How is it to be a woman in a seemingly male dominated industry?
Every industry is male-dominated, including watchmaking. I just get on with being a woman in a man’s world.
What do you think is the most significant barrier to female leadership?
Women’s lack of self-confidence, which is a consequence of our education.
What is one leadership lesson you’ve learned in your career?
Be yourself. Have faith in yourself.
What woman inspires you and why?
Coco Chanel, Simone de Beauvoir, Simone Veil: all free-thinking, beautiful, intelligent women.
What man inspires you and why?
Prince Charming because he doesn’t exist. Or because he’s everywhere!
What is the One thing you want to achieve more than anything before your time here is over?
I’d love to write a book. And be a grandmother and spoil my grandchildren!
Have you ever failed? What did you learn from it?
Of course I’ve had my share of failures, and they taught me there is a time for everything in life. Possibly it wasn’t the right moment, or the right place, or the right people. As they say, “everything comes to those who wait”. You could say I was meant to work with time, and the measuring of time!
What advice will you give the younger you?
Be yourself and have faith in yourself. Smile and have fun!
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