Students Inspired by Global Industry Leaders During Sodexo Live! Visit to Paris
Students from the University of Wales Trinity Saint David (UWTSD) Tourism, Hospitality and Events programmes were inspired by an exceptional industry engagement experience hosted by Sodexo Live! in Paris, as part of a Taith-funded Academic Adventure to France.
The visit featured an industry presentation and question and answer session delivered by Roshith Rajan, Chief of Staff at Sodexo, and Ophélie Larangé, Global Director of Talent. Their insights provided students and staff with a valuable understanding of Sodexo’s global reach and its exciting developments across hospitality, events, sport, travel, tourism, healthcare, and education.
It was made possible thanks to the support of UWTSD alumnus Craig Jarrett, Vice President of Operations at Sodexo Live!, and Boris Pincot, Sodexo’s Senior Vice President for Human Resources, whose leadership, and organisation enabled this outstanding opportunity.
This unique opportunity enabled students to engage directly with global industry leaders, applying both theoretical and practical learning in a real-world context. The interactive Q&A sessions challenged students professionally and academically, encouraging them to aspire to become the next generation of leaders within the global hospitality and events industry.
A strong focus was placed on Sodexo’s commitment to excellence, sustainability and talent development, inspiring students, and staff alike to embrace the values of becoming Sodexo Experience Makers. Discussions aligned closely with students’ academic studies, particularly within hospitality innovation, guest service, sports events, MICE, operations management, sustainability, and strategic management.
Jacqui Jones, UWTSD Programme Manager said: “This experience was truly transformative for our students. Meeting global industry leaders at Sodexo Live! gave them a deeper insight into the scale, innovation and professionalism driving the international hospitality and events sector. Opportunities like this ignite ambition, deepen understanding, and help our learners see themselves as future leaders. We are incredibly grateful to everyone at Sodexo for making it possible.”
During the visit, the group also enjoyed an exclusive tour of the historic Hôtel de Poulpry, Maison des Polytechniciens, one of Sodexo Prestige’s premier venues and convention centres, located in the heart of Paris.
The Academic Adventure was described by students as life-changing, with a significant impact already evident among the 32 participants. Sustainability was central to the experience, with the group travelling by train from Swansea High Street Station to Paris using Interrail passes. While in France, students participated in industry visits and independently planned excursions, including visits to Stade de France, Roland Garros Tennis Stadium, and exploring Paris via Batobus, all venues managed by Sodexo.
Further Information
Rebecca Davies
Executive Press and Media Relations Officer
Corporate Communications and PR
Email: rebecca.davies@uwtsd.ac.uk
Phone: 07384 467071