Early Life and Education
Born on May 12, 1972, in Boulogne-Billancourt, France, Alexandre Ricard is a distinguished French businessman who carries the legacy of one of the world’s leading distillers, Pernod Ricard. As one of the grandsons of Paul Ricard, the company’s founder, Alexandre was immersed in the culture of conviviality and craftsmanship from an early age. He pursued his education at ESCP Europe, earning a degree in business in 1995. Alexandre further honed his expertise with an MBA in Finance and Entrepreneurship from the Wharton School of Business and an MA in International Studies from the University of Pennsylvania, both completed in 2001. Fluent in French, English, Italian, and Spanish, he possesses a rich understanding of diverse markets and cultures.
Career Path
Ricard’s professional journey began outside the family business, allowing him to gain a fresh perspective on the industry. He first worked at Indosuez in Milan and then joined Accenture as a strategy consultant from 1997 to 1999. His time at Morgan Stanley in London (2001-2003) further developed his skills in mergers and acquisitions, providing him with valuable insights into the financial dynamics of the corporate world.
In 2003, Ricard returned to Pernod Ricard, starting in the audit department, where his expertise in M&A was instrumental during the acquisition of Allied Domecq. His career progressed rapidly; by the end of 2004, he had become the Finance and Administration Director for the Pernod Ricard subsidiary, Irish Distillers, based in Dublin. In September 2006, he took on the role of Managing Director of Pernod Ricard Asia Duty Free in Hong Kong. Two years later, he enthusiastically led the Jameson Whiskey brand as CEO of Irish Distillers, a position that deepened his appreciation for the craftsmanship behind their products.
In 2012, following the sudden passing of his uncle and then-CEO Patrick Ricard, Alexandre was appointed Chief Operating Officer and Deputy Chief Executive Officer. This pivotal role laid the groundwork for his ascension as Chairman & CEO of Pernod Ricard, a position he officially assumed on February 11, 2015. At just 43, he became the youngest CEO of any company listed on the CAC 40, reflecting his exceptional leadership capabilities and strategic vision.
Vision and Leadership
As CEO, Alexandre Ricard has emphasized the importance of “convivialité,” the French concept of social connection and togetherness. Under his guidance, Pernod Ricard has maintained its status as the world’s second-largest distiller by sales while fostering a culture of innovation and sustainability. Ricard believes in building communities around their brands, enhancing genuine connections between people, and creating memorable experiences that transcend mere transactions.
In his vision for Pernod Ricard, he focuses on sustainable growth and an agile operating model that empowers teams to adapt to changing market dynamics. His commitment to social responsibility is evident in the company’s dedication to sustainability, ensuring that every product reflects the land and people behind it. By leveraging technology and data, Ricard aims to deepen the company’s understanding of consumer preferences and drinking occasions, allowing Pernod Ricard to stay ahead of trends.
Global Influence and Board Memberships
Alexandre Ricard’s influence extends beyond Pernod Ricard. He is a member of the Board of Trustees for the Brookings Institution, reflecting his engagement in broader economic and social issues. His extensive experience in global markets and cross-cultural dynamics positions him as a key player in the industry.
Conclusion
Today, Alexandre Ricard leads Pernod Ricard with a unique blend of heritage and modernity, creating a business culture that thrives on optimism, authenticity, and the pursuit of excellence. Under his leadership, the company continues to craft not just spirits, but moments of connection that resonate around the world. As he often states, his mission is to “unlock the magic of human connection,” a testament to his belief in the power of conviviality in an increasingly complex world.
