A 1983 appointment as a test engineer at the Creys-Malville Superphénix nuclear plant marked the professional debut of Fabrice Brégier. Since those technical beginnings in France, he has navigated through complex industrial sectors, shifting from government advisory roles to leadership positions within major European aerospace and defense conglomerates, ultimately steering international business operations.
Foundations and Early Public Service
Born in Dijon in 1961, Brégier completed his higher education at École polytechnique and Mines ParisTech. His initial career trajectory moved through various departments within the French government. Following his time at the Creys-Malville facility and a sales role at Pechiney in Japan, he served the DRIRE in Alsace starting in 1986. By 1989, he transitioned to the Ministry of Agriculture as director of economic and financial affairs. His government tenure also included service as a technical advisor to the minister of foreign trade and the minister of post and telecommunications.
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In 1993, Brégier moved to the private sector by joining Matra Défense. He oversaw specific project collaborations, including Apache MAW GIE and Eurodrone GIE. In 1996, he took charge of stand-off activities for Matra BAe Dynamics. By 1998, he served as CEO of that entity. His work culminated in 2001 with the formation of MBDA, a multinational missile systems firm. He served as the chief executive officer of MBDA from 2001 to 2003.
Aerospace and Corporate Transitions
Brégier moved to Eurocopter as president and CEO in 2003. By June 2005, he joined the EADS executive committee. Following industrial delays within the A380 project in 2006, he became chief operating officer of Airbus Commercial Aircraft, collaborating with Louis Gallois to implement the Power 8 reorganization. On 1 January 2017, he was appointed president and chief operating officer of Airbus, serving on the executive committee.
Current Engagements
In September 2018, Brégier began leading the French subsidiary of Palantir Technologies. His broader corporate responsibilities expanded in 2023 when he assumed the role of chairperson at SCOR SE. These positions define his current professional portfolio.
Fast facts
- Born: 1961, Dijon, France
- Education: École polytechnique; Mines ParisTech
- Languages: French
- Awards: Officer of the National Order of Merit (2013); Knight of the Legion of Honour
- Major Industry Roles: CEO of MBDA (2001-2003); COO of Airbus Commercial Aircraft (2006)
- Current Position: Chairperson of SCOR SE (since 2023)
- Technology sector: Lead of French operations for Palantir Technologies (2018)
Questions readers ask
What is Fabrice Brégier's primary field of expertise?
He is a French business executive and entrepreneur who has held executive positions in the aerospace, defense, and technology sectors.
Which major corporations has he led?
He served as CEO of MBDA and Eurocopter, and held the positions of president and COO of Airbus Commercial Aircraft.
Achievements
- Knight of the Legion of Honour
- Officer of the National Order of Merit — 2013
- Affiliated with SCOR SE
- Educated at École polytechnique and Mines ParisTech
