Bordeaux Airport recently launched an ambitious internal innovation program in the form of an Innovation Challenge aimed at boosting creativity and enhancing employee engagement. With over a quarter of the staff participating and continued experimentation, the objectives of their program seem fully achieved.
A few months after the program launch, Caroline Renou, Head of Partnerships at Agorize had a conversation with Bordeaux Airport‘s Pierre Dejean, Innovation Manager, Noémie Ortiou, Innovation Mission Manager.
What were the main goals of the innovation program?
Pierre Dejean: We had two key objectives. First, we aimed to create a true innovation dynamic through our new strategy, Ressource 27, which guides our direction from 2023 to 2027. We wanted to identify new projects and enrich our roadmap with concrete solutions. Second, we aimed to encourage the emergence of ideas coming directly from on-the-ground employees, while fostering an innovation culture within the airport.
What were the initial results of the program?
Pierre Dejean: It far exceeded our expectations. We saw not only incremental innovations but also radically new ideas.
“The Challenge was a resounding success with 25% of our employees submitting at least one idea.”
For example, the winning project involves the use of drones to optimize certain operations. An experiment, in partnership with a local startup based in Mérignac, is currently in progress. We hope to finalize it by the end of the year. Concurrently, another project, identified by our executive committee, will be launched next year.
How do you explain such a high participation rate?
Noémie Ortiou: We were pleasantly surprised by this strong turnout, especially since it was our first attempt.
“That said, this result didn’t happen by chance. We had structured a battle plan focused on proximity and team mobilization.”
Initially, we secured the buy-in of managers and visited offices to talk directly with employees. We also organized workshops and a Café to introduce the initiative. Lastly, we expanded our availability hours to allow everyone to come and discuss in our office, whether between noon and 2 PM, early in the morning, or late in the evening. This groundwork was key to successfully mobilizing employees.
What advice would you give to companies looking to launch a similar internal innovation program?
Pierre Dejean: It’s crucial to reassure employees. Many hesitate to share their ideas, thinking they are not “big” or innovative enough. It’s important to remind them that all ideas, even the most modest, can make an impact. Additionally, be available and responsive. Supporting them throughout the process, through workshops and regular exchanges, is critical for encouraging participation.
Any final thoughts?
Pierre Dejean: An Innovation Challenge is a significant moment for a department and a catalyst for an innovation culture in an organization. We are proud of the results achieved and the commitment of the teams. We look forward to seeing these projects come to life, always in the spirit of the motto displayed in our offices: “Helping each other is a success accelerator.”
A big thank you to Pierre Dejean and Noémie Ortiou for sharing their insights.
