Polytechnic Graduate Excels at OECD-Paris in Anti-Corruption Sector

Rocío Castañeda

In the historic and majestic City of Light, as Paris is commonly known, Instituto Politécnico Nacional (IPN) graduate Samantha Fernanda Sánchez Moreno is making her way in a multicultural environment.

"Admiring the Eiffel Tower every day serves as a reminder that professional and personal aspirations can be achieved through effort and perseverance," said the Polytechnic graduate, who has built an impeccable career at the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD), headquartered in Paris, France, where she has lived for nearly three years.

At ESCA Santo Tomás, where she pursued a degree in International Business, she had the opportunity to learn about and engage with the activities of this organization. She completed social service at the OECD's Mexico office and later worked as a financial and administrative consultant. She currently serves as a financial advisor in the Anti-Corruption and Integrity Division for Government at the OECD in Paris.

Grateful to her professors at ESCA, who inspire and motivate their students to broaden their perspectives and excel not only nationally but also internationally, she knows from experience that Polytechnic graduates are well-prepared to succeed in a competitive global job market.

How did the opportunity to collaborate with the OECD arise?

ESCA was pivotal because it organized a competition during International Business Week in 2014. My team won second place, and the prize was a visit to the OECD offices in Mexico. From that moment, I was impressed by the work they do. A year later, the organization offered a social service position, and I applied. I never thought I would be selected because I believed they were looking for a much more specialized profile, but I succeeded and completed a one-year internship.

After finishing my undergraduate studies, I was hired as a consultant. I gradually became more involved in my role, gaining experience, and after six years, I had the opportunity to transfer to the headquarters in Paris, France.

How does your professional development at the OECD in Paris impact your career?

As a financial and human resources advisor in the Anti-Corruption Division, I prepare the necessary financial information; I am responsible for managing a budget of over 10 million euros, which requires strict organization and planning to allocate funds and determine financing for new projects, as well as the human capital needed to develop them.

"It is an honor to be a Polytechnic graduate because I acquired solid foundations in finance and administration at this institution."

The financial resources in question are public funds—taxpayer money—which makes it essential to use and optimize them in the best possible way. That is why I am committed to upholding fundamental values such as integrity, honesty, transparency, and professional ethics, which make a difference in society and the world.

What level of competitiveness and skills are required to work at the OECD?

At the OECD, we have around 4,000 employees, and many factors are considered when hiring to maintain cultural diversity. There is significant competition because professionals from many countries and universities apply. Personally, I have sometimes struggled to believe that I belong here, but at the same time, I know I have the skills, abilities, and knowledge to take on any professional challenge.

Polytechnic graduates have a high academic level, comparable to any professional from the world's top universities.

What does it mean to you to be a Polytechnic graduate?

It is an honor to say that I am Mexican and a graduate of IPN because I acquired solid foundations in finance and administration there, as well as the values that shape us into successful professionals, which have a significant impact on our country.

The Polytechnic provides us with the tools to compete internationally. Other classmates from my generation also work in different countries, in the private sector, or in other organizations. For me, it is a privilege to be part of one of the most important institutions in the country, recognized internationally. I am deeply grateful to ESCA, to the Polytechnic, and to the people I have met along the way.

Samantha, who has specialized in corporate finance, dedicates countless hours of hard work to the OECD, where she has demonstrated professional skills and competencies that continue to propel her toward her international goals. However, she never forgets her Polytechnic roots as she enjoys French culture and pastries, and spends her free time running and rock climbing.