Welcome to October’s NAVBLUE Employee Spotlight Feature! We’ve created these stories with the goal of shining a spotlight on the pivotal role our employees play in the tech and aviation field, their journeys so far, and how NAVBLUE aims to create an innovative and inclusive workforce with their help.
Today we are sharing the story of Sarah Bessadi, Deal Manager Apprentice at NAVBLUE in Toulouse, France.
Fun Facts
✈️🌍 I love traveling. I have a mission to visit at least 30 countries before turning 30 and I’m currently at 14 !
🎨🏊 You could say my main hobby is actually collecting hobbies. I just love a new challenge, whether it’s pushing my limits with swimming and volleyball, or tapping into my creative side by painting, baking, and playing guitar.
Hello Sarah! Can you share a bit about your background and what led you to NAVBLUE?
Since I was a kid, I’ve always been a curious bean, and that curiosity led me straight to Engineering. Then, I wanted to get the full picture, not just the technical how but also the business why. That’s what made me go for a second masters in International Business to get my “double hat.”. NAVBLUE was a clear choice for me because it’s where those two worlds collide, allowing me to translate technical innovation into strategic business growth.
What does a typical day look like for you as an apprentice at NAVBLUE?
A typical day for me isn’t a checklist; it’s a series of strategic sprints. I’m trusted to manage projects that have a direct impact on our operations, whether that’s optimizing a process or collaborating across different teams to solve a complex challenge. My role is to connect the dots and ensure our work is as agile as the industry we serve.
What has surprised you most about the company or the aviation industry?
What surprised me most, in the best way, was the company culture. I expected a high-pressure environment, but I discovered that NAVBLUE is genuinely on a human scale. Everyone I’ve met has been incredibly helpful and generous with their time, always willing to answer questions and share their expertise. This supportive atmosphere has made all the difference and truly accelerated my learning.
How has your apprenticeship at NAVBLUE helped you grow both professionally and personally?
This apprenticeship has been a truly transformative experience for me. Professionally, I’ve gone from a student with theoretical knowledge to a professional with a more strategic mindset. I’ve learned to navigate complex project lifecycles, communicate effectively with stakeholders across different continents, and gain the confidence to lead a room. Personally, it’s taught me the importance of resilience and adaptability. You really learn to think on your feet, embrace ambiguity, and see challenges as opportunities for innovation.
What advice would you give to someone who is considering an apprenticeship at NAVBLUE?
My advice is to be more than just present, be proactive and curious. Take ownership of your projects and don’t be afraid to ask the tough questions. Don’t just ask what you should do; ask why you are doing it and how it fits into the bigger picture. Network with people outside of your immediate team; the best insights often come from unexpected places. Treat your apprenticeship not as a stepping stone, but as a genuine opportunity to contribute and prove your value from day one.
How would you describe the future of NAVBLUE, in one word?
With all the change it has seen in the past few years, the one word that immediately came to mind was pivotal.