A lifelong French industrialist, he navigated the complexities of international energy markets, managing large-scale operations across the Middle East, Asia, and Russia during his multi-year tenure at the firm.
Professional Ascent
Born in Mareuil-sur-Lay-Dissais in 1951, de Margerie graduated from the ESCP Business School before joining Total in 1974. He gained early experience within the finance department and the exploration and production division. By 1995, he attained the role of president of Total Middle East. He rejoined the executive committee in 1999 as head of the exploration and production division, eventually joining the board of directors in 2006.
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De Margerie assumed the position of chief executive officer in February 2007. By May 2010, he also took on the role of chairman of the executive board, a dual capacity he maintained until his death in 2014. Under his leadership, the corporation expanded its operational footprint into regions including Iraqi Kurdistan, Myanmar, and Qatar, while solidifying its interests in Russia.
Strategic Stance and Controversy
As the head of the company, de Margerie maintained a vocal position regarding international sanctions on Russia, characterizing them as ineffective and advocating for continued energy sector cooperation. His tenure also involved significant legal scrutiny. In 2013, Total faced a settlement regarding allegations of bribery to secure oil and gas contracts. During the same year, he was acquitted by a Paris court concerning charges related to the Iraq oil-for-food scandal.
Accident and Legacy
On 20 October 2014, de Margerie died after the Dassault Falcon 50 aircraft transporting him collided with a snowplow during take-off. He was returning from a meeting with the Russian Prime Minister. Posthumously, he received the Order of Honour, and in 2017, an icebreaking LNG carrier was named in his memory. Previous recognitions included his 1996 appointment as Knight of the National Order of Merit and becoming an Officer of the Legion of Honour in 2014.
Fast facts
- Born: 1951, Mareuil-sur-Lay-Dissais
- Died: 2014, Vnukovo International Airport
- Education: ESCP Business School
- Positions: CEO and Chairman of TotalEnergies (2007-2014)
- Citizenship: France
- Language: French
- Awards: Knight of the National Order of Merit, Officer of the Legion of Honour, Order of Honour
Questions readers ask
What was the final position held by Christophe de Margerie at Total?
He served as the chief executive officer and chairman of the executive board from 2010 until his death in 2014.
How did the death of Christophe de Margerie occur?
He died in an aircraft crash at Vnukovo International Airport in Moscow when his jet struck a snowplow during take-off.
Achievements
- Officer of the Legion of Honour — 2014
- Order of Honour
- Knight of the National Order of Merit — 1996
- Educated at ESCP Business School
