Dean Nicolas Huchet sets the course for his mandate
Nicolas Huchet, new Dean of the Toulon Faculty of Economics and Management, sets out his mandate's goals.
In July, Nicolas Huchet took office as Dean of the Faculty of Economics and Management at the Université de Toulon, after several years as Vice-Dean.
He succeeds Philippe Gilles, who served several terms. In a competitive regional environment undergoing academic changes, he details the priorities of a mandate he intends to be continuous, open, and internationally focused.
Education, student experience, and international outlook
Even before talking about a personal vision, certain deadlines require our immediate attention, particularly reflecting on the future degree offer. We must adapt our programs to meet student expectations and regional needs.
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I also want to enhance the student experience: provide better support, foster community engagement, and boost campus life. A strong strategic focus will also be placed on internationalization, which brings visibility, dynamism, and employment opportunities.
Between continuity and openness
The faculty has a unique characteristic: its human scale. With around 700 students, we know them, and they know us. This proximity promotes support and individual attention. I also wish to preserve the spirit of consensus among the teams and sound management practices.
However, I would like to add an extra dimension: greater outward focus, visibility, and communication, notably through international and local partnerships.
The unique partnership with the Bundesbank
It is a unique partnership in France, of which we are very proud. It attracts motivated students and offers them high-level academic content. We have expanded it to Turin and Bratislava through Erasmus.
The objective is to maintain a trajectory of excellence and train generations capable of projecting a strong image of the university.
Between finance, maritime economy, and development: a plural identity
Finance is a core competence of the Université de Toulon, present across several departments. But the faculty also focuses on major fields: urban economics, maritime economics, development, and risk management.
Each division deserves support. The evolution of our educational offerings must meet student expectations while building on our diverse expertise.
A controlled internationalization
International outlook will remain a major priority. But it must be controlled: the goal is not to multiply partnerships to the point of losing our capacity for student mentoring.
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We are committed to supporting students, organizing social events, introducing them to the region, and addressing their individual needs. Internationalization must remain beneficial and manageable.
Strengthening the link between research and teaching
Lecturer-researchers already form a natural bridge between research and teaching. However, we can highlight the laboratory's work more effectively, notably through conferences and stronger synergies. There is great potential to better showcase what already exists.
Employability, attractiveness, and local integration
The MBFA master's program benefits from strong immersion in European finance, particularly through work-study options. Employment rates are excellent. But other programs—maritime economics, risk management, international trade—are also performing very well. Work-study agreements, internships, and local partnerships play a key role. Students are our best ambassadors.
We are located between Aix, Marseille, and Nice. Competition is real but healthy. Our asset is close proximity to students, quality support, and coherent programs. By maintaining this momentum, we will stay attractive.
The faculty is already deeply rooted locally: partnerships with the Banque de France, regional museums, the Comité départemental des banques, and local businesses. Students strengthen this bond through internships and work-study programs. They demonstrate versatility and adaptability, keeping us connected to local economic realities.
Pedagogical modernization and digital challenges
Telomedia is a rare asset in France: a professional audiovisual studio integrated into the university. It is a fantastic opportunity. We must leverage these tools while respecting a diversity of teaching practices.
Some teachers excel without projectors; others innovate with hybrid content. The goal is not to impose a single model.
Preparing students for tomorrow's challenges
Digital transformation, evolving career paths, artificial intelligence... The challenges are numerous. Our role is to train students to step back, challenge ideas, and foster intellectual maturity. AI must remain a tool, not a substitute for critical thinking.
A message to students
Enjoy learning, stay curious, and stay committed. Opportunities will follow. Students demonstrate great resilience despite sometimes significant hardships. We are working to provide them with the best environment for success.
In short, balancing continuity and openness, controlled internationalization, educational innovation, and local integration, Nicolas Huchet maps out a clear path for his mandate.
A coherent vision, backed by solid field experience and a strong commitment to students.
Interview conducted by Pierre Bégliomini.