Éric Trappier today began his new role as CEO of French industrial group Dassault, which includes Falcon and Mirage manufacturer Dassault Aviation, as well as IT specialist Dassault Systèmes and real estate division Immobilière Dassault. In a move announced in February 2024, Trappier is replacing Charles Edelstenne, who has led Groupe Industriel Marcel Dassault since 2018, while retaining his existing position as CEO of Dassault Aviation.

Trappier has spent his entire career with Dassault, having joined the company soon after graduating with an engineering degree from France’s Telecom SudParis university in 1983. He became the head of Dassault Aviation in 2013, taking over from Edelstenne, as well as holding the position of chairman of the company’s U.S. subsidiary, Dassault Falcon Jet.

Groupe Dassault, founded in 1929 by aviation pioneer Marcel Dassault, remains a family-owned venture, with four family members on its board. The group’s business interests also include French newspaper Le Figaro, auction house Artcurial, and a wine estate in the Bordeaux region.

Trappier also serves as president of French aerospace industry group GIFAS and defense group CIDEF. He will now oversee the strategic direction of the Dassault group, as well as leading its business and military aviation division.