Jean-Michel Besnier, born around 1968, is a prominent French billionaire heir and a major shareholder of Lactalis, one of the world’s largest dairy companies. He hails from a distinguished family deeply entrenched in the dairy industry. His grandfather, André Besnier, founded the Besnier Group in 1933, which later evolved into Lactalis, while his father, Michel Besnier, served as the company’s CEO from 1955 until 2000.
Growing up in Laval, Mayenne, France, Jean-Michel was exposed to the dynamics of the family business from an early age. He has a brother, Emmanuel, who is the current CEO of Lactalis, and a sister, Marie. Following the retirement of their father, Jean-Michel and his siblings inherited 100% of Lactalis, cementing their significant stake in a company that boasts an annual revenue of approximately $30 billion.
Under the leadership of Jean-Michel and his brother, Lactalis has expanded its operations internationally, reaching over 150 countries. The company is known for a wide array of dairy products, including popular brands like President brie, Milkmaid yogurts, and Valbreso feta. This expansion has solidified Lactalis’s position as the largest dairy producer in Europe and a major player in global markets, particularly in regions like China and Southeast Asia.
As of July 2021, Jean-Michel Besnier’s net worth was estimated by Forbes to be around $6.6 billion, reflecting the significant impact of his family’s legacy in the dairy sector.
Beyond his business acumen, Jean-Michel is known for his philanthropic efforts, contributing to various charitable organizations and initiatives aimed at improving local communities. He resides in his hometown of Laval, where he continues to support the local economy and promote dairy industry advancements.
In his personal life, Jean-Michel is a passionate collector of classic cars and motorcycles. He enjoys skiing and various outdoor activities, reflecting a lifestyle that balances his business responsibilities with personal passions.
Jean-Michel Besnier remains a pivotal figure in the dairy industry, upholding his family’s legacy while steering Lactalis towards further growth and innovation in the global market.
