A new chapter in Saint-Gobain's history

This July 1 marks the beginning of a new chapter in the history of Saint-Gobain. Today, I become the Chairman and hand over the General Management to Benoit Bazin

At a time when the Group has completed its transformation and is preparing a new strategic plan for the next 3 to 5 years, it seemed both timely and logical to hand over the reins this summer, one year before the end of my term as Chairman and CEO.

Benoit now has the task of writing a new page in Saint-Gobain's unique 350-year history. He will be able to do so from a solid foundation, based on today's reality:

• A revitalized “multi-national” group with an exciting purpose
• A promising long-term vision: to be the leader in sustainable construction
• Strong values fortes embodied by talented teams,
• Sound governance,
• Very bright prospects, benefitting from a strong positioning on buoyant markets.

All these combined strengths of the Group are reflected in the very powerful momentum of our results, which are growing with new records expected. Yes, Saint-Gobain is doing well, with financial results for the second half of 2020 and early 2021 at historic levels, employees more committed than ever and a robust and widely recognized non-financial performance.

Preparing one's succession is one of the main duties of a business leader.

I have known Benoit for many years. He is a man who truly personifies the values of Saint-Gobain. He is a man of conviction who knows how to inspire his teams to give their very best.

He also has a long experience in the Group - in France and internationally - combined with a strong customer culture.

He has an in-depth knowledge of the company's businesses, activities and markets.

I am very happy to hand over to him. He perfectly embodies the values of our company, which he will be able to lead in the interest of all its stakeholders. He is working on a new strategic plan, which he will present in October before implementing it. It is a smooth transition, in line with our tradition at Saint-Gobain, and in the continuity of the work I have been doing.

As I prepare to concentrate on my role as Chairman, I would like to take this opportunity to reiterate my pride in having led this group for 14 years and in being able to ensure that this handover takes place under the best possible conditions and at the best possible time.

 Saint-Gobain has a bright future ahead of it, right at the very heart of the major challenges of the world to come. I have every confidence in Benoit to lead Saint-Gobain to brilliant successes and to help bring its purpose to life: Making the World a Better Home.

For my part, I will carry on with the commitments that are dear to me and that will continue to resonate strongly with those of Saint-Gobain: the climate, industry, the reinvention of our cities, the integration of young people into the company and, more broadly, the transmission with the younger generations.

I am deeply moved as I reflect on the extraordinary human adventure I have experienced at the head of a great team, and as I think about the professional future of the 167,000 employees of our wonderful group. It is to them, to whom I owe so much, that I dedicate these last words and say thank you.