The tenure of Augustin de Romanet as président-directeur général of Groupe ADP spanned from 2012 until 2025, marking a transition in the management of French airport infrastructure. Throughout his career, he bridged the sectors of public policy and corporate finance, utilizing an extensive background in government administration to navigate large-scale state-affiliated projects and international corporate strategy.
Early Government Career
Born in Boulogne-Billancourt in 1961, de Romanet attended Sciences Po and the École nationale d'administration. Following his graduation, he entered the budget directorate of the Ministry of Finance. His early political trajectory included roles as a technical assistant to Minister Alain Madelin and chief of staff for François d'Aubert. Between 2005 and 2006, he served as the Assistant Secretary General of the Presidency of the French Republic, providing a foundation for his later executive roles.
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Beyond his political appointments, de Romanet engaged in investment banking as a managing partner of Oddo & Cie from 1999 to 2002. In 2007, he moved to the Caisse des dépôts et consignations, the state-owned financial institution. During his tenure there, he held board positions at entities including Accor, Dexia, and La Poste. He also directed the Fonds stratégique d'investissement starting in 2008 before transitioning to the aviation sector.
Leadership at Groupe ADP
Appointed to lead Groupe ADP in 2012, de Romanet oversaw a strategic pivot towards retail integration and international expansion. His Connect 2020 plan rebranded the organization's logistics and customer-facing operations, introducing luxury commercial spaces at Paris-Charles de Gaulle and Paris-Orly. During this period, he also served as vice chairman of TAV Airports Holding and president of ACI Europe, while contributing to the oversight of the Louvre-Lens museum and SCOR.
Fast facts
- Born: 1961, Boulogne-Billancourt
- Citizenship: France
- Education: Sciences Po; École nationale d'administration
- Positions held: Assistant Secretary General of the Presidency (2005-2006)
- Positions held: président-directeur général, Groupe ADP (2012-2025)
- Award: Knight of the Legion of Honour (2007)
- Award: Officer of the Legion of Honour (2023)
- Membership: Conseil des prélèvements obligatoires
Questions readers ask
What major roles did Augustin de Romanet hold prior to managing airports?
He served as the Assistant Secretary General of the Presidency of the French Republic and as chairman of the Caisse des dépôts et consignations.
What was his focus at Groupe ADP?
He focused on retail partnerships, developing the Paris Aéroport brand, and international market growth.
Achievements
- Knight of the Legion of Honour — 2007
- Officer of the Legion of Honour — 2023
- Affiliated with Sciences Po
- Educated at École nationale d'administration and Sciences Po
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