Cédric, Network Expert, smiling in front of a bush

Published on 06 June 2024

Cédric, Network Expert for Paris 2024: “I’ll always remember my experience at the Olympic and Paralympic Games as an enriching professional and human experience”

Cédric is a network expert on the competition venues of the Paris 2024 Olympic and Paralympic Games. He tells us about his daily life and his missions.

Cédric, what role do you play in the Paris 2024 preparations and organization?

As an Orange network expert at a Paris 2024 competition venue, my job is to supervise the installation and optimization of our various items of equipment such as switches, to meet the technical requirements set out by the Paris 2024 Organising Committee for the Olympic and Paralympic Games. I’ll also be supporting our on-site technicians and ensuring information exchange between our technical department and Paris 2024.

How does your experience lend itself to events like the Paris 2024 Olympic and Paralympic Games?

I have a varied professional background, ranging from Cisco router configuration to DSLAM network production, and also experience in various sporting events, such as the 2023 Rugby World Cup. This has prepared me to take on the challenges of the Paris 2024 Games. My technical versatility and ability to adapt quickly to the specific needs of major competitions are essential qualities to ensure our network infrastructure runs smoothly during such a large-scale event.

What do you think your biggest challenges will be during the Paris 2024 Olympic and Paralympic Games?

The Paris 2024 Olympic and Paralympic Games represent a major challenge in terms of infrastructure organization and coordination. A key challenge is adapting to the specific technical requirements of the various Olympic venues, ensuring the availability and reliability of network services in the event of faults or incidents, as well as collaborating effectively with the many players involved in the event, whether they are French or foreign. There’s also a diverse range of nationalities and languages to deal with, requiring a high level of intercultural flexibility.

After Paris 2024, what will you take away from this experience?

I’ll always remember my experience at the Olympic and Paralympic Games as an enriching professional and human experience. Working in a such a close-knit and dynamic team, facing complex technical challenges and contributing to the success of such a large-scale event are moments I’ll never forget. This experience will also strengthen my project management skills and ability to remain flexible.

How has your job helped your personal development?

My job as a network technician has taught me autonomy and adaptability, essential skills in my daily working life. I often have to work alone in the field, so I’ve learned to make decisions quickly and solve technical problems effectively. This experience also taught me the importance of teamwork, especially when it comes to collaborating with colleagues and partners to tackle complex challenges.

Why Orange?

Working for Orange evolved naturally because I initially joined the Group as an apprentice while I was still studying. I have followed the company and its heritage from its France Telecom roots, and belonging to a large company recognized for its expertise in the field of telecommunications offers diverse and challenging career opportunities. What’s more, I have always been motivated by the work environment and team spirit within the company, contributing to my professional development.