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Valérie Blanchot-Courtois
President, Human Ventures
Professional Background
Valérie Blanchot-Courtois is a highly respected expert in the realms of startup innovation and personal transformation, with a rich and diverse career that spans over three decades. Her journey began after graduating from the prestigious École Polytechnique in 1989. She then earned her PhD in Chemistry in 1992, setting a strong foundation for her analytical thinking and innovative mindset. Transitioning from an accomplished career as an intrapreneur at Gaz de France to a successful entrepreneur, Valérie has dedicated her life to coaching others on how to successfully pivot their businesses and their personal lives.
As the founder of Human Ventures, established in 2004, Valérie has played a pivotal role in helping numerous organizations foster innovation through intrapreneurship. Her work focuses on empowering individuals to unlock their inner potential, which is reflected in her motivational approach to coaching. Valérie's extensive expertise in innovation management, energy transition, and digital strategies has enabled her to impact countless clients dramatically.
Valérie is also a strong advocate for sustainable energy solutions. Her journey in this field included co-founding Dune Solutions in 2010, where she contributed to developing energy dashboards tailored for executives. Additionally, she served as the transition CEO for GreenLeaf, an innovative startup in home automation from 2014 to 2018. These roles exemplify her commitment to combining the latest technologies with sustainable practices, helping organizations navigate the complexities of the energy transition.
In her capacity as a business angel, Valérie has actively invested in energy transition startups since 2010, further strengthening her influence in the sector. She currently chairs the PACA Est Incubator StartUp Selection Committee, where she guides emerging entrepreneurs in their journey towards innovation and growth.
Education and Achievements
Valérie’s educational background is as impressive as her professional journey. She completed her engineering degree at the École Polytechnique, one of the foremost institutions in France, and further solidified her expertise with a doctorate in organic chemistry. Her commitment to lifelong learning continued as she became a Certified Executive Coach at HEC Paris, equipping her with the necessary skills to facilitate meaningful transformations in individuals and organizations alike.
Valérie's contributions to the field of innovation are numerous. As an affiliated professor at SKEMA Business School from 2007 to 2019, she led the SKEMA Innovation & Knowledge Cycle, organizing an impressive 164 conferences focused on disruption and innovation. This initiative helped foster a deep understanding of the dynamics at play in entrepreneurial ecosystems, making her an invaluable resource for both academics and practitioners.
In 2010, she was honored as a Knight of the French National Order of Merit, a recognition that underscores her significant contributions to innovation and her commitment to helping others succeed. Valérie's dedication to fostering women's professional development is evident from her leadership roles, including serving as Vice President of Fédération Femmes 3000 and Chair at Côte d'Azur Pionnières.
Achievements
Valérie Blanchot-Courtois has numerous notable accomplishments throughout her established career. Her company, Human Ventures, has gained recognition as a leader in training and consulting, providing tailored incubation programs designed to accelerate innovation while cultivating essential skill sets in entrepreneurship. Under her guidance, many aspiring entrepreneurs and intrapreneurs have successfully navigated complex business landscapes, illustrating her capability to inspire others to achieve their goals.
Her innovative mindset has led her to create significant economic value for various clients through her expertise in managing innovation. As a former manager at Gaz de France, where she spent over 12 years holding various pivotal positions, Valérie paved the way for her subsequent achievements in the entrepreneurial sector. Her experience at Gaz de France not only honed her management abilities but also increased her understanding of the importance of sustainable practices within large organizations.
In addition to her achievements in the startup ecosystem, Valérie continues to impact the community through her dedication to mentorship and coaching. As a facilitator and advisor, she has shared her wealth of knowledge with startups and emerging entrepreneurs, helping them craft their business models and embrace innovative practices that drive success.
Valérie’s multifaceted career as a coach, entrepreneur, and invested mentor underscores her passion for sparking transformation and encouraging growth in individuals and organizations alike. With her proven track record in innovation management, energy transition, and personal coaching, Valérie Blanchot-Courtois remains a significant influence and thought leader in both the entrepreneurial and academic arenas.
