EDF's Chief has taken control at Suez
Suez Group Set to Install Xavier Girre as New Director General
Four months after the departure of former CEO Sabrina Soussan, the water and waste management giant Suez is set to welcome a new leader. The nomination committee of the company has officially endorsed Xavier Girre, an executive committee member at EDF, as Soussan's successor, according to multiple sources and BFM Business reports. Thierry Déau, head of Meridiam infrastructure fund, which owns 39% of Suez, will retain the presidency he assumed on New Year's Day, just prior to Soussan's exit.
After circulating names such as Stéphane Richard, former CEO of Orange who transitioned to investment banking, and Yann Leriche, CEO of Getlink, the operator of the Channel Tunnel, it is Girre who is anticipated to be confirmed by the board of directors on June 2. Previously serving as CFO at EDF for almost a decade, Girre brings extensive experience in managing financial aspects of large-scale operations related to utilities and environmental services to his new role.
Prior to his tenure at EDF, Girre was the CFO at Veolia – a direct competitor of Suez in the water and waste management sector. His professional journey began at the Cour des Comptes (Court of Auditors), and he holds a degree from HEC (Hautes Études Commerciales) and a master's degree in business law. He is also recognized for his roles as an independent administrator and chair of the Audit and Risk Committee for FDJ United.
Girre's appointment as Director General of Suez follows the departure of Soussan and signals a shift in leadership for the company. Suez's shareholders, including Meridiam, GIP, and the Caisse des Dépôts, were involved in the decision-making process. The change comes during a period of significant transformation for the company, and Girre is expected to steer Suez through these changes with his industry expertise.
Xavier Girre, with his extensive experience in the financial management of utility and environmental services businesses, is anticipated to be confirmed as the new Director General of Suez by the board of directors on June 2. His appointment follows the departure of former CEO Sabrina Soussan, signaling a shift in leadership for the company, and comes during a period of significant transformation in the business sector of Suez.
