THE FINAL FRONTIER

As Cartier celebrated the Closing Ceremony of the Women’s Pavilion at Dubai Expo 2020, Bazaar India spoke to one its key members, Sophie Doireau, the Maison’s CEO for the Middle East, India, and Africa.

- Radhika Bhalla

What is the most beautiful thing a woman can wear, one that will make her sparkle? It’s 2022, and it’s safe to say that we’re looking beyond the trinket box. And so, we’ll venture to say it’s her power, confidence, and most of all, her happiness...concepts that were the bedrock of the first-of-its-kind Women’s Pavilion at the Dubai Expo 2020, created in collaboration with Cartier. This special exhibit, followed by a daylong seminar, was dedicated to the achievements and travails of women, across history and the world. Bazaar India spoke to one of the key driving forces behind the Women’s Pavilion—Sophie Doireau, Cartier’s CEO for the Middle East, India, and Africa—about the Maison’s commitment to the female force, empowering women in their teams, her own journey, the timeless appeal of Cartier, and more...

Harper’s Bazaar: You’ve been associated with Cartier for 14 years. What is your first memory of Cartier?

Sophie Doireau: “When I was a student, there was a talk on Cartier in my Business School, and I remember saying to myself, ‘This is a company I’d love to work for’. Many years later, I had the opportunity to join Cartier and I remember my first experiences with the Maison, when Alain Dominique Perrin was still the President [from 1975 to 1998]... I remember him speaking about Cartier’s values, his belief in the Maison, and the vast opportunities in luxury. Back then, luxury wasn’t at all what it is today...”

HB: Along your journey, who have been your greatest mentors?