Benoît Potier (born 31 March 1957) is a French business executive who served as chief executive officer (CEO) of the multinational industrial gases company Air Liquide from 2006 to 2022, and has been chairman of its board of directors since 2006. He is recognized for guiding the company through a period of international expansion and diversification into new markets such as health and environment.
Early life and education
Potier was born in France. He graduated from the École Polytechnique, one of France’s leading engineering schools, and subsequently earned a degree from the École des Mines de Paris (now Mines ParisTech). He also holds an MBA from the Harvard Business School.
Career
- Air Liquide (1981–present): Potier joined Air Liquide in 1981 as a research engineer. Over the following decades he held a series of technical and managerial positions, including director of the company’s research and development department, and senior vice‑president for the Europe, Middle East and Africa region.
- Chief Executive Officer: In 2006 Potier succeeded Alain Bourges as CEO. Under his leadership, Air Liquide pursued a strategy of organic growth combined with acquisitions, expanding its presence in emerging economies and increasing its portfolio of services for the healthcare and environmental sectors. The company’s revenue more than doubled during his tenure.
- Chairman of the Board: Potier has chaired the board of directors since 2006, overseeing corporate governance and long‑term strategic direction. In February 2022, he stepped down as CEO and was succeeded by the company’s former deputy CEO, while remaining as chairman.
Other professional activities
Potier has held positions on several industry and advisory bodies, including:
- Member of the Board of Directors of the European Round Table of Industrialists (ERT).
- Chairman of the French Business Confederation (MEDEF) in 2015–2016.
- Member of the International Advisory Council of the World Economic Forum.
Honors and recognition
- Officer of the Legion of Honour (France).
- Commander of the Ordre national du Mérite (France).
Personal life
Potier is married and has children. He is known for his interest in scientific research, technology innovation, and corporate social responsibility initiatives.
This entry reflects information available from publicly documented sources up to 2023.