5 minutes with... Jérôme Copin

Hi Jérôme, can you tell us a bit about yourself? 

Hi everyone, I’m Jerome! I graduated from a Parisian business school, concluded in an international exchange program in Madrid. Shortly after, I began my career at the Safran Group within the Defense division, focusing on European and Middle East customers. In February 2009, I joined Thales in the Avionics GBU, where I mainly worked on programs for the Airbus A380 and A350, as well as collaboration with the Chinese airframer AVIC. To enjoy the incredible opportunities in China, my family and I moved to Beijing at the end of 2014. During this time, I took on a Key Account Management role within the International Development directorate at Thales, which allowed me to interface with various Thales business and contribute to the growth of our governmental customer base. 

My first four years in international roles provided a solid foundation for my career, leading me to become the Country Director for the Andean region, based in Colombia. Recently, in late 2023, I transitioned to a new position at the Airspace Mobility Solutions Business Line as the LATAM Competence & Service Center Director, as well as the Airspace Mobility Solutions Domain Director for Mexico. 

In summary, over the past 15 years, I’ve had the privilege of working in four different countries across Europe, Asia, and Latin America, navigating in diverse roles that include sales, key account management, general management, P&L, and operations. Beyond my professional life, my family and I love exploring the world and discovering the rich cultures and breathtaking landscapes these regions offer. To maintain my energy and focus at work, I've transitioned from almost 20 years of practicing judo to embracing the challenges of running triathlons. I firmly believe that both work and sports share common values, such as teamwork, the importance of routine, and the lessons learned from both failures and successes. 

Can you tell us what your job is about?

My job is a fascinating blend of diverse activities that encompass Business, Transformation, Project Execution, and Finance. The AMS Business Line which delivers systems like Control Tower, Air Traffic Control Centers, Air Traffic Messages Systems, Surveillance Radars and Navaids has decided to expand its global presence by adopting a more local approach. This strategy leverages our leading position in Latin America and Mexico, allowing us to transfer projects activities, platforms, and expertise into the region. Our goal is to provide projects and services with greater intimacy from Mexico to our customers in Latin America and the Caribbean, including ANSPs and Air Forces. I am fortunate to work with a multicultural and multidisciplinary team spread across Brazil, Panama, and Mexico. This team, which includes professionals in Sales, Bids, Engineering, Projects, and Services, is essential in driving our top line and ensuring our bottom line, all while maintaining the satisfaction of our demanding customers in their mission to monitor and ensure airspace safety. 

Why did you choose to join Thales? 

I clearly remember encountering Thales during the LAAD show in Brazil in 2006 and being impressed by their booth and international strike. Their booth was highly digital, with various solutions displayed on screens. So, when I had the opportunity to work at the Aerospace division to work on the Thales Avionics program for the A380 and A350XWB, it didn't take long for me to decide. I was eager to become part of such an innovative and international company. 

Do you have any advice for people interested in joining Thales?  

If you are looking for a career where your talent will impact and serve technology that play a crucial role in improving people's lives, Thales is the perfect place for you. With opportunities on both domestic and international exposure, you can embark on a journey of growth and impact. At Thales, you can transition into leading global positions in Space, Radars, Aerospace, Defense, Cybersecurity, and Identity, regardless of your background or origin. Join Thales and make a real difference with technology that matters. 

Last but not least: Be curious, Dare to do, inspire your teams to generate a lasting impact. 

If you had to convince engineers to join AMS, what would you tell them?   

Airspace Mobility Solutions (AMS) is a global leader and internationally recognized business line within Thales, operating in an amazing and rapidly transforming high-tech sector. At AMS, we work with state-of-the-art technologies that play a crucial role in air traffic flow, passengers safety, and environmental impact considerations. Our workday often involves collaboration with colleagues from around the world, from Melbourne to Lisbon, Paris, or Gorgonzola, but also Salt Lake City, Mexico City, and São Paulo. This global reach brings incredible diversity and richness to the teams and in the professional journey, making a significant difference in our contributions.