Famous French Business People

Bernard Arnault is a prominent French businessman, investor, and art collector known for his leadership in the luxury goods industry. As the founder, chairman, and CEO of LVMH, the world's largest luxury goods company, he has overseen significant growth and expansion into various sectors including fashion, jewelry, watches, and wine. Arnault earned the nickname "The Terminator" due to his strategic acquisitions and revitalization of prestigious brands like Christian Dior. His business acumen and aggressive strategies have solidified his status as a key figure in the global luxury market.

Evan Spiegel is a prominent French-American businessman known for co-founding and leading Snap Inc. He gained international recognition as the youngest billionaire in 2015. Spiegel currently serves as the CEO of Snap Inc., overseeing its strategic direction and growth. Under his leadership, the company has introduced innovative products and expanded its market presence. With a personal net worth of $2.7 billion as of March 2023, Spiegel continues to make significant contributions to the technology and social media industries.

Louis Vuitton was a French fashion designer and businessman who founded the Louis Vuitton brand of leather goods now owned by LVMH. He apprenticed under a successful trunk maker in Paris, gaining a reputation as one of the city's premier practitioners. Vuitton was hired as a personal trunk maker for the Empress of The French, leading to work with elite and royal clients. He eventually opened his own trunk making workshop and introduced revolutionary rectangular canvas trunks. Vuitton also designed the world's first pick-proof lock, showcasing innovation and craftsmanship in his work.

Carlos Ghosn is a prominent businessman and former automotive executive who held leadership positions in several major companies. He served as CEO of Michelin North America, chairman and CEO of Renault, chairman of AvtoVAZ, chairman and CEO of Nissan, and chairman of Mitsubishi Motors. Ghosn gained widespread attention for his high-profile escape from house arrest in Japan while facing trial for financial misconduct during his time at Nissan.

Françoise Bettencourt Meyers is a prominent French businesswoman, philanthropist, and writer. She is the richest woman in the world, known for her successful career in managing her family's wealth and investments. As the heir of Liliane Bettencourt and the granddaughter of L'Oréal's founder, Eugène Schueller, she oversees the family holding company, Téthys Invest. Her strategic investments have significantly increased her net worth, making her a key figure in the business world and a notable philanthropist.

Liliane Bettencourt was a prominent figure in the business world, known for her role as a board member and major shareholder of L'Oréal. With a significant influence in the company, she played a key part in its operations and decision-making processes. Her professional endeavors led her to become one of the wealthiest individuals globally, solidifying her position as a leading businesswoman in the cosmetics industry. Bettencourt's legacy includes her contributions to L'Oréal's success and her impact on the business landscape as a whole.

Henri Fayol was a French mining engineer, mining executive, author, and director of mines. He is renowned for developing Fayolism, a general theory of business administration. Alongside his colleagues, Fayol independently developed this theory, separate from scientific management but around the same time. Widely recognized as a pioneer of modern management practices, Fayol's contributions have had a lasting impact on the field of business administration. His work has cemented his legacy as a foundational figure in the evolution of management methods.

André Arpad Busson is a French hedge fund manager, investor, and philanthropist. He began his career in hedge funds in 1986 in New York and later founded the EIM Group, a prominent fund of funds company where he serves as chairman. Busson is known for his active involvement in various philanthropic causes internationally. In 2013, he was reported to have a net worth of €500 million, according to the French business magazine Challenges.

Edmond James de Rothschild was a prominent member of the Rothschild family, known for his significant contributions to the banking and financial services sector. He played a key role in expanding the family's business interests internationally, particularly in the fields of real estate, mining, energy, agriculture, and winemaking. Edmond James de Rothschild's professional endeavors were marked by a commitment to philanthropy and the establishment of nonprofits, reflecting a dedication to giving back to society and supporting various causes.

Robert Louis-Dreyfus was a successful French businessman known for his leadership roles at Adidas and Saatchi & Saatchi. As the CEO of Adidas (then Adidas Salomon), he played a key role in the company's operations. Additionally, he was a majority shareholder of the French football team Marseille, overseeing their resurgence as a prominent European club. Louis-Dreyfus' business acumen and strategic decisions left a lasting impact on the companies he led, solidifying his reputation as a skilled and influential figure in the business world.

Greg Lansky is a French artist, entrepreneur, and investor known for directing and producing adult films that he considers art. As the former CEO of Vixen Media Group, a major player in the adult entertainment industry, he played a key role in its growth and success. Lansky's creative pursuits expanded beyond adult films with the release of the sculpture "Algorithmic Beauty" in 2022, showcasing his talent and innovation in different artistic mediums.

Éleuthère Irénée du Pont de Nemours was a chemist and industrialist known for founding the gunpowder manufacturer E. I. du Pont de Nemours and Company. He was elected a member of the American Philosophical Society in 1807. His professional career was marked by significant contributions to the industrial sector, particularly in the field of gunpowder manufacturing. His legacy extends through the success of his company and the influence of his descendants, the du Pont family, who have been prominent figures in American business, politics, and philanthropy.

James Mayer de Rothschild was a prominent German-French banker known for founding the French branch of the influential Rothschild family. He played a crucial role in the development of the family's banking business, expanding its operations and influence across Europe. James Mayer de Rothschild was highly respected in financial circles for his astute business acumen and strategic investments. His dedication to the banking industry and commitment to excellence solidified his reputation as a leading figure in the world of finance during the 19th century.

Jean-Baptiste Say was a prominent French economist and businessman known for advocating competition, free trade, and the removal of business restrictions. He is renowned for popularizing Say's law, emphasizing the importance of markets in economic theory. Say was a pioneer in the study of entrepreneurship, viewing entrepreneurs as key figures in organizing and leading the economy. He played a significant role in the establishment of the École spéciale de commerce et d'industrie, one of the earliest business schools in history.

Louis Renault was a pioneering French industrialist and one of the founders of Renault, a major automobile manufacturing company that still bears his name. During World War I, Renault's factories played a significant role in the war effort, producing the first tank of modern configuration, the Renault FT tank. However, he faced accusations of collaborating with the Germans during World War II, leading to his company being seized and nationalized by the French government. Renault was known for his dominant and aggressive leadership style within the automaking industry.

Marcel Dassault was a prominent figure in the field of aircraft manufacturing, contributing significantly to the industry through his engineering expertise and entrepreneurial skills. He established himself as an industrialist, founding successful companies that played a crucial role in aviation development. Dassault's influence extended beyond business, as he engaged in politics, serving in the French Parliament for over three decades. His legacy is characterized by innovation, leadership, and a lasting impact on the aerospace sector, solidifying his reputation as a pioneering figure in aviation history.

Alain Wertheimer is a prominent French billionaire businessman with a base in New York City. He serves as the chairman and controlling shareholder of the renowned fashion house Chanel. Alongside his brother Gérard, Alain oversees the watch division of the company. With an estimated net worth of US$40 billion as of October 2022, he is recognized as one of the wealthiest individuals globally, ranking 26th on the Bloomberg Billionaires Index. Wertheimer's influential leadership and strategic decisions have played a significant role in Chanel's success and global reputation.

André Citroën was a prominent French industrialist known for founding the renowned automaker Citroën. He made significant contributions to the automotive industry, particularly through his innovative use of double helical gears. Citroën's engineering expertise and business acumen played a crucial role in the success of his company, which became a leading force in the automobile market. His pioneering spirit and commitment to technological advancements left a lasting impact on the automotive world, solidifying his legacy as an influential figure in the industry.

Xavier Niel is a prominent figure in the telecommunications and technology industry, known for his involvement in various successful ventures. He is the founder and majority shareholder of the French Internet service provider and mobile operator Iliad, trading under the Free brand. Niel is also involved in other businesses, such as owning Monaco Telecom, Salt Mobile, and Eir. He holds key positions within Iliad and serves on the boards of companies like KKR and Unibail-Rodamco-Westfield. With an estimated net worth of US$6.9 billion, Niel is a respected entrepreneur and strategist in the business world.

Joseph Marie Jacquard was a French weaver and merchant who made significant contributions to the development of the programmable loom known as the "Jacquard loom." His invention revolutionized the textile industry by enabling the automatic production of complex woven patterns. The Jacquard loom served as a precursor to modern computing technology, inspiring the creation of other programmable machines. Jacquard's innovative work paved the way for the development of digital compilers used by companies like IBM in the creation of modern computers, leaving a lasting impact on the world of technology and automation.

Jules Rimet was a prominent figure in the world of football administration, serving as the President of FIFA for a record 33 years, from 1921 to 1954. He played a significant role in the establishment of the FIFA World Cup, with the inaugural tournament taking place in 1930 under his leadership. Rimet's contributions to the sport also included founding the French club Red Star and serving as the president of the French Football Federation. His legacy lives on through the prestigious Jules Rimet Trophy, named in his honor.

Jacques Delors was a prominent French politician known for his significant contributions to the European Union. He served as the eighth president of the European Commission from 1985 to 1995, where he played a crucial role in creating the single market and introducing the euro currency. Delors was also a member of the French Socialist Party and held various positions such as France's finance minister and a member of the European Parliament. His leadership and advocacy for European unity left a lasting impact on the EU's development.

François-Henri Pinault is a prominent French businessman known for his successful leadership in the luxury fashion industry. He assumed control of his father's retail conglomerate in 2005, transforming it into the prestigious Kering Group in 2013. Additionally, he serves as the president of the family-owned investment holding Groupe Artémis, overseeing a diverse portfolio that includes renowned brands and companies. His strategic vision and business acumen have solidified his reputation as a key figure in the global fashion and luxury sector.

Marguerite Steinheil was a French woman known for her intriguing professional endeavors. She gained notoriety for her various love affairs with influential men. Steinheil was present during the controversial death of President Félix Faure, which sparked rumors and speculation. She faced legal scrutiny when she was accused of the murders of her husband and mother, but ultimately was acquitted. Despite these controversies, Steinheil's professional life was marked by a mix of scandal and intrigue, capturing the attention of the public and media.

Pierre Olivier Sarközy de Nagy-Bocsa is a French banker with a successful career based in the United States. He has established himself as a prominent figure in the financial industry, known for his expertise and leadership skills. Throughout his professional life, Sarközy has made significant contributions to the banking sector, demonstrating a strong commitment to excellence and innovation. His accomplishments and reputation have solidified his position as a respected and influential figure in the world of finance.

Henri de Castries is a prominent French businessman known for his leadership in the insurance industry. He served as the chairman and CEO of AXA, a multinational insurance firm, where he made significant contributions to the company's growth and success. During his tenure, he implemented strategic initiatives that strengthened AXA's position in the market and enhanced its global reputation. Castries' leadership and vision played a key role in shaping the company's direction until his retirement in 2016.

Laura Mercier is a renowned French makeup artist and successful businesswoman known for her eponymous cosmetics brand. With a career spanning decades, Mercier has established herself as a prominent figure in the beauty industry. She is celebrated for her innovative approach to makeup artistry, creating high-quality products that cater to a wide range of skin tones and types. Mercier's brand has garnered a loyal following worldwide, solidifying her reputation as a trailblazer in the cosmetics world.

Madame Clicquot Ponsardin, also known as Widow Clicquot or Veuve Clicquot, was a pioneering figure in the world of Champagne production. After inheriting her husband's wine business at a young age, she demonstrated exceptional skill and innovation in the industry. She played a crucial role in developing early champagne using a novel technique, ultimately leading to the success and renown of the Veuve Clicquot Ponsardin brand. Her legacy as the "Grande Dame of Champagne" continues to be celebrated in the world of wine and business.

Jeanne Lanvin was a prominent French haute couture fashion designer, known for founding the Lanvin fashion house and Lanvin Parfums. She revolutionized the fashion industry with her elegant and sophisticated designs, earning her a reputation as a leading figure in the world of high fashion. Lanvin's creations were highly sought after by elite clientele, and her influence extended beyond clothing to include beauty and perfume products. Her legacy continues to inspire and shape the fashion landscape, cementing her status as an iconic figure in the industry.

Richard Mille is a co-founder of the Swiss luxury watch company that bears his name. He has made a name for himself in the world of horology by creating high-priced, intricate timepieces that have pushed the boundaries of traditional watchmaking. Despite facing criticism for the extravagant nature of his creations, Mille's innovative designs and attention to detail have garnered a loyal following among watch enthusiasts and collectors worldwide. His professional legacy is marked by a commitment to craftsmanship and a relentless pursuit of excellence in the luxury watch industry.

François Pinault is a French billionaire businessman known for founding the luxury group Kering and the investment holding company Artémis. He began his business career in the timber industry in the 1960s and eventually transitioned towards luxury and fashion, leading to the transformation of his company into Pinault-Printemps-Redoute (PPR). In 2003, he delegated the management of his companies to his son François-Henri to pursue his interest in contemporary art.

François Coty was a prominent French perfumer, businessman, and patron of the arts, known for founding the Coty perfume company. He achieved early success with the fragrance La Rose Jacqueminot, expanding his business globally by establishing subsidiaries in major cities. Coty faced challenges during the Russian Revolution and later became a staunch opponent of Communism. He diversified into media by acquiring newspapers to influence public opinion. Coty's political involvement included serving as a senator and mayor, while also supporting right-wing movements and founding his own political group, Solidarité française.

Philippe Chatrier was a prominent figure in the world of tennis, transitioning from a successful player to a respected journalist and sports administrator. He served as the president of the French Tennis Federation for two decades, from 1973 to 1993, overseeing significant developments in the sport in France. Additionally, he held the position of president of the International Tennis Federation for 14 years, from 1977 to 1991, contributing to the global growth and governance of tennis during his tenure.

Delphine Arnault is a prominent figure in the fashion industry, serving as the executive vice president at Louis Vuitton and the chairwoman and CEO of Dior. Her leadership and strategic vision have played a crucial role in the success of these iconic luxury brands. With a strong background in business and management, Arnault has been instrumental in driving innovation, expanding market presence, and maintaining the prestigious reputation of both Louis Vuitton and Dior. Her exceptional expertise and dedication have solidified her position as a respected and influential businesswoman in the fashion world.

Vincent Bolloré is a prominent French billionaire businessman known for his leadership in the investment group Bolloré. He served as the chairman and CEO of the company until his retirement in 2022. Throughout his career, Bolloré made significant contributions to the business world, establishing himself as a successful and influential figure in the industry. His achievements and strategic decisions have played a key role in shaping the growth and success of the Bolloré Group, solidifying his reputation as a key player in the business world.

James Goldsmith was a prominent French-British financier, tycoon, and politician known for his controversial business dealings, which often resulted in legal disputes with the British media. He was elected as a Member of the European Parliament in 1994 and later founded the Eurosceptic Referendum Party in the UK, advocating for Britain's withdrawal from the European Union. Goldsmith's professional life was marked by his financial success, political activism, and outspoken views on European integration.

Guy de Rothschild was a prominent French banker who served as the chairman of the French Banque Rothschild between 1967 and 1979. He also held investments in various French and foreign companies, including Imerys. Known for his financial acumen, he navigated the complexities of the banking industry with skill and expertise. His contributions to the financial sector were widely recognized, earning him a place in the International Best Dressed List Hall of Fame in 1985.

Thierry Hermès was a French businessman known for founding Hermès International. He began his career as a saddle maker in 1837 before expanding into jewelry, home decor, and silk scarves. After moving to Paris in 1821, he established a successful business that would become a renowned fashion house. Following his passing in 1878, his son and grandsons took over the family business, ensuring its continued success and growth.

Eugène Schueller was a French chemist and entrepreneur known for founding L'Oréal, a global cosmetics and beauty company. He played a pivotal role in revolutionizing the beauty industry, creating innovative products and establishing L'Oréal as a market leader. Schueller's expertise in chemistry and business acumen led to the growth and success of the company. His vision and dedication to quality and innovation helped L'Oréal become a household name, setting new standards for the cosmetics industry worldwide. Schueller's legacy continues to influence the beauty world today.

Alain-Philippe Malagnac d'Argens de Villèle had a diverse professional life. He started as a child actor in the film Les Amitiés particulières and later became a personal secretary to Roger Peyrefitte. Malagnac went on to manage the nightclub Le Bronx in Paris and briefly oversaw the career of singer Sylvie Vartan. He also became an art collector and was involved in the sale of artworks and antiquities. Additionally, Malagnac married singer Amanda Lear and their union lasted 21 years until his tragic death in a house fire.

Jean-David Blanc is a renowned French entrepreneur, angel investor, film producer, writer, and jazz musician. He founded AlloCiné, a successful cinema information service, at the age of 22, which later expanded to the internet. After the success of AlloCiné, he launched Molotov in 2016, a streaming distribution service for television channels. Jean-David Blanc is also a prominent angel investor, supporting various startups such as Meetic, Stripe, and Square. Additionally, he is involved in artistic and literary endeavors, having authored a book titled Three Days in Nepal.

Thierry Roussel is a French businessman known for his involvement in managing his daughter's fortune. He gained notoriety as the former co-trustee of his daughter's trust, which led to legal disputes with the Greek trustees of the fortune. In 1999, the court intervened and transferred the administration of the trust to a private auditing firm, resolving the ongoing conflicts. Roussel's professional life has been marked by his controversial role in managing his daughter's inheritance and the legal battles that ensued.

Tidjane Thiam is a prominent businessman with a diverse professional background. He has held executive positions at renowned companies such as Credit Suisse, Prudential, and Freedom Acquisition Corp. Thiam's career includes roles as CEO of Credit Suisse and Prudential, as well as membership in the International Olympic Committee. With a strong foundation in management consulting and executive leadership, Thiam has demonstrated expertise in finance and business strategy. He continues to contribute to various organizations, such as the Kering Foundation, where he serves on the board of directors.

La Païva, born Esther Lachmann, was a prominent French courtesan in the 19th century known for her lavish lifestyle and influential connections. Rising from humble beginnings in Russia, she became renowned for her opulent literary salon at Hôtel de la Païva in Paris. A notable investor and patron of architecture, La Païva was described as having a hardened personality and was considered the most famous courtesan of her time. She inspired literary characters and left a lasting legacy on French society.

Edouard de Rothschild is a prominent businessman known for his contributions to various industries, particularly in the financial sector. He has played a significant role within the French branch of the Rothschild family, leveraging his expertise to drive success in investment banking and other financial ventures. With a keen strategic mindset and a deep understanding of global markets, Edouard has established a reputation as a skilled professional who has made impactful decisions and investments that have shaped the industry landscape.

Jérôme Kerviel is known for his role as a French rogue trader involved in the 2008 Société Générale trading loss scandal. He was convicted and imprisoned for breaching trust, forgery, and unauthorized use of the bank's computers, which led to losses totaling €4.9 billion. Kerviel's actions highlighted the risks associated with unauthorized trading and the potential for substantial financial losses within the banking industry.

Ned Lamont is an American businessman and politician affiliated with the Democratic Party. He served as a Greenwich selectman and was the party's nominee for the United States Senate in 2006. Lamont ran for governor in 2010 and 2018, winning the latter election. During his tenure as governor, he signed legislation legalizing cannabis, sports betting, and online gambling. Lamont defeated Republican Bob Stefanowski in both the 2018 and 2022 gubernatorial elections.

Louis Lumière was a French engineer and industrialist known for his significant contributions to the development of photography and cinema. He co-invented the Cinématographe, an early motion picture camera and projector, which led to the birth of cinema as we know it today. Along with his brother Auguste, Lumière made pioneering advancements in the field of cinematography, including creating the first moving picture shows and producing numerous short films that showcased the potential of this new medium.

Michel Leclercq is a prominent French billionaire businessman known for founding and owning a significant stake in Decathlon, the largest sporting goods retailer globally. With an extensive network of over 1647 stores in 57 countries and regions as of January 2020, he has played a pivotal role in establishing Decathlon as a leader in the industry. Leclercq's strategic vision and leadership have been instrumental in the company's growth and success, making him a respected figure in the business world.

Isabel Sylvia Margaret Maxwell is a notable entrepreneur known for co-founding Magellan, an early search engine later acquired by Excite. She has been recognized as a Technology Pioneer of the World Economic Forum and served as President of Commtouch, which later became CYREN. Maxwell also contributed to the growth of the Social Entrepreneur program at Israel Venture Network during her tenure as a Director. Her professional journey highlights her expertise in technology, internet companies, and social entrepreneurship in Israel.

Élie de Rothschild was a prominent figure in the French branch of the Rothschild family banking dynasty. He succeeded his father as a partner in de Rothschild Frères, the family bank, where he played a key role in managing its operations. Additionally, he oversaw the renowned Château Lafite-Rothschild premier cru claret vineyard for nearly three decades, from 1946 to 1974. His leadership and expertise contributed significantly to the success and reputation of both the family bank and the prestigious vineyard during his tenure.

Richard Hennessy was an Irish military officer and businessman who founded the renowned Hennessy cognac dynasty. He established the brand in France after going into exile due to his Jacobite political beliefs. Hennessy's legacy as a successful entrepreneur and key figure in the cognac industry endures today, with the Hennessy brand being recognized globally for its luxury and quality. Through his military service in the French Army, Hennessy further solidified his reputation as a skilled and accomplished individual.

Alexandre Darracq was a prominent French investor, engineer, cycle manufacturer, and automobile manufacturer. By 1904, he was a key player in the French automobile industry, producing over ten percent of all vehicles in the country. Darracq's business success led him to sell a significant portion of his company to British investors. Despite facing challenges with the rotary valve engine he introduced, Darracq remained committed to its production. His ventures extended to Italy, where he founded Società Anonima Italiana Darracq, later transforming into Alfa Romeo.

Claudie Haigneré is a French doctor, politician, and former astronaut. She made history as the first woman astronaut of both the French space agency CNES and the European space agency ESA. Haigneré's professional life is marked by her significant contributions to the field of space exploration. Her achievements include successfully traveling to space and conducting important research while aboard spacecraft. Additionally, she has been involved in politics, using her expertise to further advancements in the aerospace industry and beyond.

Ludovic Lefebvre is a renowned Michelin-star French chef, restaurateur, author, and TV personality. With 12 years of training in France, he later moved to Los Angeles where his culinary skills earned him the prestigious Forbes Travel Guide Five Star Award at L'Orangerie and Bastide. He further established his presence with innovative ventures like LudoBites, a successful multi-city restaurant tour, and the acclaimed restaurants Trois Mec and Petit Trois in Los Angeles. Lefebvre's contributions have been recognized with numerous awards, including LA Weekly's Best New Restaurant and Best Chef accolades.

Pierre Nanterme was a prominent French business executive known for his role as chairman and CEO of Accenture, a leading global management consulting and professional services firm. During his tenure, Nanterme guided Accenture through a period of significant growth and expansion, establishing the company as a key player in the industry. He was widely recognized for his strategic leadership, innovative thinking, and commitment to driving organizational success. Nanterme's legacy includes a lasting impact on Accenture's business operations and reputation within the global business community.

Robert I Estienne, also known as Robertus Stephanus, was a renowned 16th-century printer in Paris. He inherited the Estienne print shop from his father and established himself as a prominent figure in the world of printing. Estienne was recognized for publishing classical texts, Greek and Latin translations of the Bible, and the influential Thesaurus linguae latinae. He was known as the "Printer to the King" and was the first to print the New Testament with standard numbered verses. Estienne's work faced opposition from Catholic theologians, leading him to flee to Geneva, where he continued his printing uncensored.

Eugène Schneider was a prominent French industrialist and politician. In 1836, he co-founded the Schneider company with his brother, Adolphe Schneider. Throughout his career, he held various roles, including serving as a Deputy for many years. His contributions to the industrial sector were significant, and he also briefly held the position of Minister of Commerce and Agriculture in 1851. Schneider played a key role in the growth and development of the Schneider company, leaving a lasting impact on the industrial landscape of France.

Jean-Louis Dumas was a prominent French businessman known for his leadership at the luxury brand Hermès. Serving as chairman from 1978 to 2006, he played a pivotal role in transforming the company into a global powerhouse. Dumas also held the position of artistic director at Hermès, contributing to the brand's reputation for elegance and sophistication. His strategic vision and creative direction were instrumental in solidifying Hermès' status as a leading luxury brand in the fashion industry.

Éric Boullier is a highly experienced French motor racing engineer and manager. He served as the racing director of the McLaren F1 Team from 2014 to 2018, after previously holding the role of team principal at Lotus F1 from 2010 to 2013. Boullier's career also includes positions such as chief engineer at Racing Engineering, managing and technical director at DAMS, and CEO of Gravity Sport Management. He has been involved in various Formula One teams, overseeing their performance and strategic direction with notable successes. Boullier later joined the French Grand Prix organization in advisory and leadership roles.

Marcel Bich was an Italian-born French manufacturer known for co-founding Bic, a renowned company specializing in ballpoint pens, lighters, and razors. Throughout his professional life, he played a pivotal role in establishing Bic as a global leader in the production of these everyday essential items. His vision and innovative approach revolutionized the industry, making Bic a household name synonymous with high-quality, affordable writing instruments and other products. Marcel Bich's legacy continues to influence the world of consumer goods to this day.

Samuel D. Waksal is a biopharmaceutical executive known for founding ImClone Systems and Kadmon Pharmaceuticals. His leadership at ImClone resulted in the development of the cancer drug Erbitux. Waksal's professional life took a controversial turn due to an insider trading scandal involving improper communications with friends and family during a FDA review of Erbitux. As a result, he was convicted of securities violations, served time in federal prison, and was later released.

Henri de Saint-Simon was a French political, economic, and socialist theorist, as well as a businessman. He developed an ideology known as Saint-Simonianism, emphasizing the recognition and fulfillment of the needs of the industrial or working class for an effective society and economy. Saint-Simon highlighted the threat posed by the idling class and advocated for a merit-based social hierarchy and economy. He is considered the father of socialism and communism, with his ideas influencing a wide range of thinkers and movements, from utopian socialism to Marxism and institutional economics.

Albert Kahn was a prominent French banker known for his philanthropic endeavors and his significant contributions to the field of photography. He is best known for initiating The Archives of the Planet, an extensive project that spanned over two decades and resulted in a remarkable collection of 72,000 color photographs and 183,000 meters of film. Through his work, Kahn made a lasting impact on the preservation of cultural heritage and the documentation of historical events through the lens of photography.

Auguste Lumière was a French engineer, industrialist, biologist, and illusionist known for inventing the cinematograph with his brother Louis. They created the first animated photographic camera and projection device, achieving global success. Lumière worked at his father's photographic company before being inspired by Thomas Edison's Kinetoscope. Following the success of their first film screening in 1895, the brothers opened cinemas worldwide. Auguste later focused on biomedical advancements, pioneering the use of X-rays for examining fractures and developing innovations for military aircraft.

Maurice de Hirsch was a prominent German Jewish-French financier and philanthropist known for his efforts to support oppressed European Jewry. He established charitable foundations dedicated to promoting Jewish education and improving the living conditions of Jewish communities. De Hirsch founded the Jewish Colonization Association, which facilitated significant Jewish immigration to Argentina. Through his financial expertise and philanthropic endeavors, he played a crucial role in supporting and empowering Jewish populations in Europe and beyond.

Ariane de Rothschild is a prominent Salvadorean-French banker who has made history as the CEO of Edmond de Rothschild Group since March 2023. Known for her leadership and financial expertise, she is the first woman and non-Rothschild lineage individual to head a Rothschild-branded financial institution. Throughout her career, she has demonstrated a strong commitment to excellence and innovation in the world of finance, earning recognition for her strategic vision and business acumen on a global scale.

Sue Youcef Nabi is an Algerian entrepreneur and innovator in the global beauty industry. With 20 years of experience at L’Oreal, she held prestigious positions such as President for Lancôme and L’Oréal. In 2017, Nabi founded the vegan skincare line Orveda, showcasing her commitment to sustainability and innovation. Her leadership skills and expertise caught the attention of Coty Inc., where she was appointed CEO in July 2020. Nabi's remarkable career trajectory reflects her passion for beauty and her ability to drive success in the industry.

Anne-Sophie Pic is a highly acclaimed French chef known for regaining three Michelin stars for her restaurant, Maison Pic, in southeast France. She has a total of 10 Michelin stars across her various restaurants. Pic initially trained in management but eventually returned to the family restaurant to become a chef. She successfully regained Maison Pic's three Michelin stars in 2007, becoming only the fourth female chef to achieve this honor. Pic has expanded her culinary empire with successful restaurants in Switzerland, Paris, London, Singapore, and Megève.

Paul Durand-Ruel was a pioneering French art dealer known for his pivotal role in promoting and supporting artists of the Impressionist and Barbizon School movements. He was instrumental in modernizing art markets by championing artists such as Claude Monet, Camille Pissarro, and Pierre-Auguste Renoir. Durand-Ruel's entrepreneurial spirit led him to establish art galleries and exhibitions in major cities worldwide, helping to cultivate international interest in French artists. He also played a significant role in decentralizing art markets in France by challenging the dominance of the Salon system.

Juan Sartori is a prominent Uruguayan businessman, senator, and co-owner of Sunderland. He is best known as the president and founder of Union Group, a leading investment management and private equity firm with diversified interests in various industries globally. Sartori has made significant contributions to sectors such as agriculture, technology, energy, and real estate through his company. His entrepreneurial skills and strategic vision have established him as a successful leader in the business world, shaping his reputation as a key figure in the international business community.

Paul Ricard was a French industrialist known for creating an eponymous pastis brand that later merged with Pernod to form Pernod Ricard. He was also an environmentalist who developed two Mediterranean islands and built the Circuit Paul Ricard in Le Castellet. Ricard's contributions to the business world include his successful brand creation and merger, as well as his ventures in environmental conservation and infrastructure development, showcasing his diverse interests and impact across different industries.

Christophe Plantin was a French Renaissance humanist, book printer, and publisher based in Antwerp. He founded the renowned Plantin Press, which became one of the most prominent publishing houses of his era. Plantin's contributions were instrumental in establishing Antwerp as a major hub of book publishing in Europe. His legacy endured through his successors who continued to run the publishing house until 1867, solidifying his impact on the world of printing and publishing for centuries to come.

Robert Guérin was a French journalist and one of the founders of FIFA. As a journalist for Le Matin newspaper, he played a crucial role in the early development of football. He served as the secretary of the Football Department of the Union des Sociétés Françaises de Sports Athlétiques, where he was instrumental in bringing together representatives from the first seven member countries to sign FIFA's foundation act. Elected as the 1st President of FIFA in 1904, he oversaw the organization's growth to include eight more associations during his two-year tenure.

Marie Besnier Beauvalot is a French billionaire heiress known for her significant role as a major shareholder of Lactalis. She is actively involved in managing the family business and has played a key role in the company's growth and success. With a focus on the dairy industry, Marie has demonstrated strong leadership skills and business acumen in overseeing Lactalis' operations and strategic decisions. Her contributions have helped solidify the company's position as a prominent player in the global market.