Jean-Marc: As a chemical and physical engineer by training, I had a well-paid job as a sales manager in a printing company near Paris. I travelled a lot to develop our product, but despite the success and the comfortable lifestyle, I didn't have time to enjoy life. I actually only took the job out of respect for my parents, who had financed my studies, and because the business was going so well, I just kept on going.

I have always been fascinated by flying. My dream was to become a private pilot. As my family couldn't afford the ENAC private pilot course, I worked hard as an engineer and got my licence as my first present.

Longing for a deeper meaning in life

At 34, I came to a point in my life where I wanted to change everything. So in 2010 I started Sophrology, a dynamic relaxation method, and worked a lot with pregnant women. At the same time I was working as a sales manager. I had more and more clients and soon it became overwhelming. That’s when I decided to quit and look for a job where I could practice Sophrology on the side. I was also longing for a deeper meaning in my life.

I realised that I wanted to fulfil my dream of flying when I was on layovers in New York, Singapore and Los Angeles with my best friend, who is a flight attendant with Air France. I heard that SWISS was recruiting Cabin Crew Member in Geneva and successfully applied. I quit my job as a sales manager near Paris and moved to Geneva. On 9 January 2014, I joined SWISS. It was like a dream, and the aircraft was the most beautiful office I could have ever imagined.

I was promoted to Deputy Team Leader Cabin Crew in Geneva after just four months, to Maître de Cabine after a year and a half, and finally to Team Leader Cabin Crew in 2017. I still fly 50 per cent of the time. My work experience helps me to assist our guests if they are not feeling well during the flight. I also use my experience to coach my team members. I encourage them to pursue their dreams and ambitions so that they can get on with their lives. 

I am delighted to have fulfilled my dream by working for SWISS. I like the philosophy of SWISS and Switzerland, which is based on tolerance and diversity. Different nationalities, religions, orientations and values come together here. As a Frenchman who grew up with a Spanish mother and an Italian father, I am proud to be part of this diverse group of people. At SWISS I can be who I am, and that is priceless. That is something I could not take for granted in my previous work environment.

Jean-Marc, how have people around you reacted to your career change?

My boyfriend realised that I was not fulfilled in my life and encouraged me to change something. Most people around me thought I was crazy. They thought I was stupid to give it all up after I had achieved so much.

What do your parents think of your decision today?  

They are proud and very happy for me now. And so am I. I wouldn't change it for the world.