Hanna Laurent: From MBS to the Heart of the World’s Biggest Sporting Events
At just 25, Hanna Laurent already has an impressive career in sports and cultural event management. From her studies at MBS to Roland-Garros, the Rugby World Cup, the Paris Olympics, and now the 2026 Winter Olympics in Milan, she shares her experience and passion for large-scale events.
An Unconventional Entry into Event Management
Originally from Normandy, Hanna joined the MBS Grande École Program in 2019, after completing a French baccalaureate in economics and a preparatory class (ECE). Her first years, however, were disrupted by the pandemic: remote classes, adapted internships, and canceled exchanges.
“Our school years were a bit disrupted by the pandemic… I finished my final undergraduate year remotely, and my exchange in Finland was canceled.”
She completed her first internship at Asphalt, an online clothing brand, in customer service, laying the foundation for her future career in business and event management.
First Steps in Cultural and Sports Event Management
During her gap year between M1 and M2, Hanna joined the Delta Festival in Marseille. Managing partners, overseeing the CSR village, coordinating suppliers… she discovered the behind-the-scenes of event management and confirmed her interest in sports events.
“It was my first step into events… and it made me want to go further in this sector.”
She then joined the French Tennis Federation for Roland-Garros 2022, specializing in hospitality and VIP reception, before continuing there during her Master 2 internship.
From Roland-Garros to the Rugby World Cup
After graduation, Hanna joined World Rugby for the 2023 Rugby World Cup, managing guests, coordinating ticket sales, and overseeing on-site operations.
“I love the adrenaline of being there, knowing we have to deliver… it’s a unique feeling to see the event unfold successfully.”
She then joined the Paris 2024 Olympic Committee, this time handling accreditations—a demanding but highly instructive role, managing suppliers, partners, and media across all sites.
The Milan Winter Olympics: A New Challenge
Since November 2024, Hanna has continued her journey with the 2026 Winter Olympics in Milan, overseeing accreditation centers for six Olympic and Paralympic villages.
“At each site, we provide a center to collect accreditations and solve any issues… it’s a very hands-on role, but incredibly stimulating.”
For her, this is a natural continuation of her past experiences, combining logistics, organization, and international interactions.
Unforgettable Encounters and Intense Moments
Hanna shares some of her standout moments: meeting Roger Federer at Roland-Garros, or staying up late to prepare accreditation centers.
“Even in hospitality, you find yourself talking to major personalities… those are the moments that stick with you.”
She emphasizes the collective energy of these events, where sport brings entire nations together and creates a unique sense of shared experience.
The Impact of MBS and Advice for Students
Although MBS was not specialized in sports events, the school’s network played a key role:
“I got my first internship thanks to the alumni network. My manager was a former student, and it made all the difference.”
Her advice to students: dare to experiment, be visible, and build a strong network.
“It’s never too late to pivot and follow your passion… determination and the ability to learn make all the difference.”
Hanna Laurent embodies the passion, adaptability, and discipline needed to succeed in sports event management. From festivals to the Olympics, her journey is an inspiration for anyone dreaming of working on the world’s biggest events.
