Initially, with a training internship that, after a few months, turned into an apprenticeship. Originally from the United States and having arrived in Italy just over two and a half years ago, the initial idea was to have a temporary experience, but the path within the company led him to stay and grow within the team.

An international and diverse entrance

“My experience began without a defined role. At first I helped with the Spain and Portugal areas, supporting the Territory Managers and handling translations of documents and contracts between English, Spanish and Italian. I also took care of internal organization for clients, meetings and business trips.”

The first approach to the job was therefore varied, allowing Massimo to get to know the company’s processes and to build relationships with international colleagues and managers.

Experience on the ground: the meeting in Valencia

One of the most significant moments was the participation in the Macron Sports Hub Meeting in Valencia, during which about 40 managers from different parts of the world – America, Australia, South Africa – were accompanied in a full immersion into the Spanish market.

“We visited, in three days, almost 9 Sports Hub stores and multibrand stores, and 5 clubs, to show the structure and the potential of our market. It was a lot of work, with little sleep, but very fun and educational. It gave me a complete view, not only of the business side, but also of the people who operate in the territory.”

This experience allowed Massimo to directly compare different store models, from the high level of customization in large establishments to smaller ones, strengthening his knowledge of Macron's international business.

An experience that opens up new perspectives

Macron’s arrival allowed Massimo to discover an international, dynamic and stimulating environment, where everyday work goes beyond individual tasks and offers the opportunity to encounter different realities.

“It’s an intense experience, but incredibly formative. It prepares you to see business from multiple perspectives and to build concrete relationships with different people and markets. And at the same time, it makes you realize that there’s always something to learn and grow from.”

A path that confirms that in Macron, internationalism, the spirit of adaptation and sharing – both inside and outside the workplace – are integral parts of professional growth, offering those who enter the opportunity to take on challenges and make a difference.

Cultural integration: adapting and feeling part of the context

Coming to Italy from another country can be a challenge, but for Massimo the integration process was natural and gradual.

“I consider myself a very adaptable person; I go with the flow. The fact that I lived in Spain before helped me: it wasn’t a strong cultural shock. I had time to learn the language, get used to the customs, and build relationships outside of work as well.”

A fundamental element was precisely contact with everyday life: studying Italian, making friends and integrating into the local context facilitated integration.

“Making friends outside of Macron, joining a team, meeting people are all things that really help you feel part of what surrounds you.”

Sport as a universal language

Sport played a central role both in Massimo’s personal life and in his integration process.

“I have always played football. In Spain I also got into volleyball, while in Italy I returned to football. When I joined Macron, I immediately started playing with my colleagues: it was one of the simplest and most natural ways to get to know people.”

Even before his first day at the company, Massimo had already started building relationships by participating in informal initiatives related to business life with his colleagues. This was a first step that made the onboarding process even more immediate.

“Today we also play together outside of work; we participate in tournaments and sporting events. This creates a different, more direct bond.”

Team building and relationships beyond the office

The experience in Macron extends beyond the working environment, thanks to moments of sharing that strengthen the team spirit.

“Activities outside of work really make a difference. Even just going together to watch a sporting event or spending time together on the weekend creates a closer relationship with colleagues.”

According to Massimo, sport becomes an opportunity for connection even for those who do not experience it in an competitive way.

“Even if you are not a sports fan or don’t follow a particular discipline, these moments allow you to get together, have fun, and build relationships. This is also reflected in your daily work.”