HEC Paris class of 1971 graduate Henri Proglio developed a high-profile corporate career navigating the complex landscape of French industry. Emerging from Antibes in 1949, he rose through the management ranks of major conglomerates, serving in leadership roles that spanned water, environmental services, and energy production sectors over several decades of professional activity.
Early Career at Compagnie Générale des Eaux
Proglio joined the Compagnie Générale des Eaux in 1972. His tenure within the organization led to an executive appointment as chairman and CEO in 1990. Following this period, he transitioned into roles at Vivendi Universal in 1999, where he functioned as vice-president and oversaw Vivendi Water as its chairman and CEO.
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In 2000, Proglio became chairman of Veolia Environnement, adding the role of CEO to his responsibilities three years later. By November 2009, he accepted an appointment as the chairman and CEO of Electricité de France, a position he held until 2014. Subsequently, in December 2014, he took on the position of second-in-command and chairman of the Thales Group.
Directorships and Professional Affiliations
Beyond his primary executive roles, Proglio has held various non-executive directorships. These include positions at CNP Assurances, Dassault Aviation, and Natixis. He has participated in advisory capacities for the Pictet Water Fund and maintained memberships in organizations such as Le Siècle, the Association Française des Entreprises Privées, the Groupement de recherche et d'études pour la civilisation européenne, and HEC Alumni.
Honours and Recognitions
Proglio has received several distinctions for his professional work. He was named manager de l'année in 2005. His state-recognized accolades include being appointed an Officer of the Legion of Honour, Commander of the Legion of Honour, and Commander of the National Order of Merit.
Fast facts
- Born: 1949, Antibes
- Education: HEC Paris, class of 1971
- Nationality: France
- Manager de l'année: 2005
- Thales Group role: Chairman, 2014
- Electricité de France role: Chairman and CEO, 2009-2014
Questions readers ask
What major utilities did Henri Proglio lead?
He served as the chairman and CEO of both Veolia Environnement and Electricité de France.
What is his educational background?
He graduated from HEC Paris in 1971.
Achievements
- Officer of the Legion of Honour
- Commander of the National Order of Merit
- Commander of the Legion of Honour
- Educated at HEC Paris