Jacques André Aschenbroich transitioned from a career in French civil service to become a central figure in European industrial management. Born in 1954 in the 6th arrondissement of Lyon, he developed a track record in the automotive and glass sectors before ascending to leadership roles at the highest levels of French corporate governance.
Early Career and Public Sector
Educated at Mines ParisTech, Aschenbroich began his professional life as an engineer in the Corps of Mines. Between 1982 and 1988, he held several public sector roles, including deputy regional director in Lorraine and technical adviser for industrial affairs within the cabinet of Prime Minister Jacques Chirac.
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By 1996, he became president of Saint-Gobain Vitrage. His tenure expanded significantly in 2001 when he was appointed senior vice-president, later overseeing flat glass, high-performance materials, and corporate innovation sectors through 2008.
Transforming Valeo
Appointed CEO of automotive supplier Valeo in 2009, Aschenbroich led the company until 2022. He restructured the organization into four primary business groups: comfort and driving assistance, powertrain, thermal, and visibility systems. His strategic focus prioritized the development of technologies for CO2 emission reduction and expansion into emerging international markets.
Corporate Governance and Honors
Aschenbroich has held various board positions, including roles at BNP Paribas and Total S.A. In 2022, he assumed the role of chairperson for the telecoms company Orange. His professional contributions have been recognized with several distinctions, including Commander of the Legion of Honour in 2025 and Officer of the National Order of Merit in 2011.
Fast facts
- Born: 1954, 6th arrondissement of Lyon
- Education: Mines ParisTech
- CEO of Valeo: 2009-2022
- Chair of Orange: Since 2022
- Officer of the National Order of Merit: 2011
- Officer of the Legion of Honour: 2015
- Commander of the Legion of Honour: 2025
Questions readers ask
What is Jacques Aschenbroich's current role?
He is the chairperson of the board of directors at Orange.
Which major industrial firm did he lead before 2022?
He served as the CEO of the automotive parts manufacturer Valeo.
Achievements
- Officer of the Legion of Honour — 2015
- Knight of the National Order of Merit
- Officer of the National Order of Merit — 2011
- Commander of the Legion of Honour — 2025
- Educated at Mines ParisTech
