With a background in finance and a passion for creativity, French student Oscar Valeur made a bold shift—trading Montreal’s winters for Singapore’s fast-paced, tropical innovation hub. Today, as a student in ESSEC’s MSc in Marketing Management and Digital (MMD) program, Oscar is pursuing his long-term vision of working in luxury brand strategy with the same analytical edge that defined his earlier career in wealth management.

“What attracted me to ESSEC was the mix of academic rigor, international exposure, and practical relevance,” Oscar shares. “Singapore’s position as Asia’s luxury and innovation hub made the decision even easier.”

Bridging Strategy, Creativity, and Culture

Having specialized in Brand Strategy and Digital Marketing with a focus on the luxury sector, Oscar is diving deep into the intersection of heritage, consumer behavior, and cutting-edge innovation.

“The luxury space fascinates me because it balances timeless tradition with constant reinvention,” he explains. “It’s more than selling a product—it’s about crafting value that transcends time.”

ESSEC’s balance of case-based learning, real-world consulting projects, and an internationally diverse cohort has made the experience both intellectually challenging and professionally fulfilling.

From Wealth Management to Watchmaking Ambitions

Before joining ESSEC, Oscar spent three years working in finance in Montreal. His entrepreneurial spirit also led him to launch a global nightlife and food guide—a side project that, while not a commercial venture, helped him sharpen valuable skills in audience engagement, branding, and execution.

Looking ahead, Oscar is clear about his ambitions.

“I plan to stay in strategy consulting in the short term,” he says, “and my long-term goal is to join a Swiss watch company in a strategic leadership role, where I can shape brand, product, and marketing strategy. I want to merge data-driven thinking with emotional storytelling—the essence of luxury.”

Active on Campus and in the Community

Oscar doesn’t just lead in the classroom – he serves as President of the Sports Club, student ambassador for the MMD program, and a pro-bono strategy consultant for a French social enterprise.

“It’s a great way to meet people outside of your usual circle and build a community,” he says.

He also stays connected to his passion for horology by participating in watch-related events and discussions with like-minded peers.

Advice to Future Candidates

Oscar’s advice to prospective students is direct and pragmatic:

“Be clear about what you’re after. This program is demanding, but it gives back a lot. Don’t just follow the prescribed path—bring your own vision. And leverage the diversity around you. That’s one of your biggest source of learning.”

Life in Singapore: Food, Culture, and Curiosity

Oscar spends his free time exploring Singapore’s vibrant food and cultural scenes. His top hangout spots?

• Tanjong Beach, Sentosa – for relaxed weekend afternoons.
• Boat Quay – for its weekend vibe and food scene.
• Atlas Bar – for stunning Art Deco interiors and world-class cocktails.

His favorite meals near campus include pizza from Pepperoni Pizza, dry noodles and Indian food from Koufu, and Thai dishes at Timber food court. Away from campus, he recommends Zamzam near Arab Street, Lau Pa Sat, and the bustling flavors of Chinatown.

As for downtime, Oscar enjoys walking in the Botanic Gardens and MacRitchie Reservoir, as well as exhibitions and concerts at the Esplanade.

“Exploring Singapore has been as enriching as the program itself—it’s a city that challenges you to think globally, live locally, and stay curious.”