Q: Let’s start at the beginning, can you tell us a little about your background and how you got to where you are today?
I’m originally from France and lived there until I finished university. I started my career working for Airbus, and that took me to Mexico and the U.S., and eventually I landed in Barcelona, where I did my MBA, at IESE of course!
I’ve always been passionate about entrepreneurship and have dedicated the past 25 years to it: as a founder, business angel, VC fund manager, and teacher. I live a “double life”: investing in startups and teaching others how to do the same, and guiding companies and individuals on their entrepreneurial journeys from idea to success.
Q: Who are the most influential figures in your life?
Two stand out. Winston Churchill – he fought for freedom and democracy, staying true to his beliefs through victories and defeats. When I face uncertainty, I think of him. And of course, my wife – a true entrepreneur who takes full responsibility for her actions and beliefs. Having both public and personal role models offers me a well-rounded perspective on life.
Q: At IESE, we aim to develop leaders with a deep and lasting impact through professional excellence and service. What role does entrepreneurship play in society?
Entrepreneurship is fundamental. It drives innovation and gives people – not just founders, but also employees – a sense of freedom and ambition. It’s also key to tackling pressing challenges like technological shifts and climate change. Entrepreneurship doesn’t just create companies; it generates solutions.
Q: What accomplishment, personal or professional, are you most proud of?
I believe the reason why I spend a significant amount of my time investing in startups is not only because of the impact but also because all those investments I’ve been making over the years are providing people new ways to make a living. As an investor, being behind the creation of thousands of jobs is something I feel proud about. Beyond that, I’ve been compiling my experiences into a book to help entrepreneurs navigate the full journey of building a business, and to encourage investors to invest in startups. It was hard work, but I’m proud of the result.
Q: Your book is called Hablando en Plata, which roughly translates to ‘Let’s Get Real.’ What motivated you to write this book and what are the key messages behind it?
After years of teaching entrepreneurship, I saw the impact of sharing real-world insights with my students. So why not aim at a broader audience? My two main messages in the book are:
Transparency and accessibility: Providing straightforward, easy-to-understand insights to help entrepreneurs anticipate challenges and dilemmas along their journey.
Encouraging investment in startups: Inspiring private investors to support entrepreneurship, so we can continue to see entrepreneurship and new ventures flourish.
Q: What inspires you most about your work inside and outside IESE?
Impact. I love teaching more every day. Helping students become better entrepreneurs, leaders, and people is incredibly rewarding. Seeing them pursue their ambitions and make a difference in the world inspires me constantly.
Q: What do you think will be the next big trend in startups and entrepreneurship?
Right now, the answer to everything is AI. But as an investor, I remain cautious. I’ve seen trends rise and fall – blockchain, e-commerce… The impact of AI is undeniable, but I believe it remains a tool, a vehicle. The real question is: What comes next? AI will produce a few major successes, but many ventures will fail. The key is anticipating the next big thing beyond AI.
Q: Finally, what advice would you give to students and future entrepreneurs?
Entrepreneurship is a tough, uncertain path full of ups and downs. My advice: work on yourself. Know your strengths and weaknesses. If you truly believe in your idea, go all in – but only if you can thrive in uncertainty. Otherwise, it will be a miserable experience.
Thank you, Mathieu. Now, for the speed round.
Q: What do you do in your free time?
Cycling! I love the workout and the community around it.
Q: What are you reading, watching, or listening to these days?
I often listen to The ITNIG Podcast – raw, candid conversations about startups, entrepreneurship, and business innovation. It resonates with me because I believe transparency is key to fostering the entrepreneurial spirit.
As for books, The Mom Test – a must-read. It has helped thousands of entrepreneurs transition from an idea to an opportunity, a challenge many struggle with.
Q: Something that makes you happy?
Seeing the real impact of helping entrepreneurs.
Q: Favorite place?
Barcelona!
Q: Explain early-stage equity financing to a 10-year-old.
Starting a business requires two things: effort and money. If you don’t have the money, an investor provides it in exchange for a share of your success. Imagine organizing a bike race – you have the legs to race, but no bike. An investor gives you the bike (equity financing), and together, you work to win the race.