Didier Jodocius: from international trade to social entrepreneurship

"Being the captain of industry [...] is not about money, it's about human value, and I think that entrepreneurship is something that really deserves to be supported and encouraged".

In the academic world, we sometimes follow winding paths to discover our true passion. For Didier Jodocius, this path led him from the sciences to international business and then on to a successful entrepreneurial career. But that's only part of his remarkable story. Didier embodies social commitment, mentoring and a belief in innovation by supporting young entrepreneurs. Let's delve into the inspiring story of Didier, a 1984 graduate of ESC, and discover how he forged his own path, while contributing to the well-being of others and to entrepreneurial development.

His academic background and career

Didier began his academic journey in the sciences, first at the University of Caen and then at the University of Angers. However, his destiny was not anchored in the world of science, and he soon discovered his true passion: international trade. In 1983, he joined the ESC and graduated in 1984 (equivalent to an MSc in International Commerce). Didier then worked for an SME in the flooring sector in France before taking up an opportunity in Germany for a decade. He returned to France with the same SME to develop sales, mainly in export markets.

A socially committed graduate

"I've had a lot of luck in my life and I think it's time I gave a little of it back to others who have had less than I have". 

In the last phase of his career, Didier spent seven years working in collaboration with the Yvelines Chamber of Commerce and Industry in Versailles, where he undertook initiatives to integrate prisoners at the end of their sentences, including those on electronic monitoring devices, into his factory. He went even further by setting up a manufacturing workshop in the Maison Centrale de Poissy, a long-sentence prison, offering prisoners an opportunity for reintegration and gradual rehabilitation. Didier has shared this exciting experience with other industrialists and has contributed to the growth of these practices. He is currently working on projects to set up tailoring workshops for women prisoners, an ongoing voluntary commitment to the rehabilitation of prisoners.

At the same time, he is involved in philanthropic activities, seeking to reinvest his capital in promising and promising industrial sectors, in particular by supporting people and industry.

A passion for entrepreneurship and support for promising initiatives

"You just have to take the time to look at how lucky you are and how much you can give back to others, so you just have to stop running and say to yourself that it's worth devoting a little time to those who need it." 

Over the course of his career, Didier has been able not only to undertake and create wealth, but also to share this success with entire families thanks to the growth of his business. It's a human adventure that strengthens team cohesion and creates a unique working atmosphere that goes far beyond the figures.

His passion for entrepreneurship has also led him to support other initiatives, from young entrepreneurs to promising projects such as Capillum. He is convinced that entrepreneurship deserves to be encouraged because it generates a positive dynamic and shares prosperity while creating inestimable human value. This is why he is committed to supporting these initiatives and encourages other graduates to do the same, creating a solid network for entrepreneurial development.

A "debt" to the School

"I have a debt, a debt of honour, in that the Master's in International Business in 84 at Clermont has conditioned and even, I would say, energised my career and my whole life".

Didier shares his deep attachment to ESC Clermont, its teachers and mentors, who have played an essential role in his career. 

For him, supporting his school and future generations of students is an act of gratitude, a way of returning the favour and contributing to the success of other young talents. This is also reflected in the mentoring of interns from the School.

His support for Capillum

"It's for the energy that James and Clément develop. The faith I have in them and in their success, they have the profile of a company director, they have a desire to take on the world, a desire to go far, to go fast".

The story of Didier and Capillum began in the virtual world of LinkedIn. Initially, he was intrigued by the publications of the Graduate Association and spotted this start-up through their activities and development. It was only later that he moved into direct mode, following their progress and news closely. The graduates' network and passion for entrepreneurship played a key role in this meeting. Amongst the many opportunities that present themselves, there are sometimes initiatives that shine through their energy and determination. For Didier, there's no doubt: the key lies in the enthusiasm and vision of young entrepreneurs like James and Clément.

Didier is convinced that this drive and vision will propel them to success. That's why he has decided to make a financial commitment and put his industrial experience at their disposal. For him, supporting these young entrepreneurs is a way of passing on his knowledge and encouraging innovation in the business world. It's a story of entrepreneurship and mentoring that promises great things to come.

Didier embodies a belief in innovation, generosity towards others and a desire to give back to society. His passion for international business, his social commitment, his desire to support young entrepreneurs and to invest in future generations make him an inspiring role model for building tomorrow's world.

If you too would like to support Capillum or other graduates and/or students who are entrepreneurs or project leaders, please let us know by email.

* Capillum = the 1st hair recycling and recovery business, founded by 2 graduates: James Taylor class of 2018 and Clément Baldellou class of 2019. They are both double graduates of the Master Grande École and MSc Project Manager programmes.