As an observer of the world of new technologies for two decades, both in France and internationally, I wanted to share with you what I consider to be those who make and break the tech industry in France.
Disclaimer : this list is purely subjective, I am sure that not everyone will agree with me, and I certainly hope so! Feel free to share in the comments those you consider indispensable in France.
1. Charlie Perreau – Head of High-tech/Media/Startup department at Les Échos
Charlie is THE tech journalist of the moment. Her thorough, sometimes scathing articles put a finger where it hurts. She is also in high demand to moderate panels and comment on major trends at important tech events.
2. Carlos Diaz – Serial entrepreneur, founder of the Silicon Carne podcast and the L’Hacienda community (AKA El Gringo)
Carlos is a valuable voice for understanding Californian tech with a French perspective. His analyses, often incisive, are accompanied by a newsletter that is an absolute must-read!
3. Xavier Niel – Do we still need an introduction?
A visionary entrepreneur, Xavier Niel embodies audacity. From Station F to his numerous investments in French Tech, he is a key player. His recent masterclass "How to Become a Billionaire" has once again generated considerable attention.
4. Roxanne Varza – Director of Station F
A charismatic leader, Roxane propels French startups to the forefront of the international scene. An essential figure in innovation in France.
5. Matthieu Stefani – Founder of CosaVostra and podcaster (Génération Do It Yourself, La Martingale)
With his captivating interviews of leading entrepreneurs, Matthieu is an inspiring voice. He is also the podcaster who interviewed the president!
6. Jean de La Rochebrochard – Managing Partner at Kima Ventures
He is a reference for any entrepreneur in the startup scene. A seasoned investor, he knows how to spot talent and opportunities.
7. Frédéric Mazzella – Founder of BlaBlaCar
A pioneer of the collaborative economy, Frédéric Mazzella has changed the way we travel. BlaBlaCar is one of the greatest successes of French tech.
8. Laure Closier – Anchorwoman on BFM Business
With her clear and direct style, Laure popularizes tech and economics subjects to make them accessible to everyone.
9. François Sorel – Host at BFM Business (Tech & Co)
François is a well-known figure among the general public. He decodes technological innovations and their impacts with passion.
10. Anthony Morel – Tech columnist at BFM TV
Always enthusiastic, Anthony popularizes technological trends and innovations, making tech accessible and fun.
11. Sébastien Couasnon – CCO at Sowefund, podcaster and former host of Tech&Co
Sébastien Couasnon has an informed view of economic and tech issues, with a unique ability to make them clear and captivating.
12. Dr. Luc JULIA – Co-creator of Siri and expert in artificial intelligence
He is a world-renowned genius, combining innovation and pragmatism. His insights on the future of AI are essential. I really enjoyed his participation in the latest documentary produced by Arte, which I can't recommend enough: Silicon F***ing Valley.
13. Clara Chappaz – Secretary of State in charge of AI and Digital, former director of the French Tech Mission
After successfully leading the Mission French Tech, Clara Chappaz now serves in the government, navigating a difficult landscape of budget restrictions
14. Julie Chapon – Co-founder of Yuka
Julie Chapon has revolutionized the way we consume thanks to Yuka. Today, she is tackling the US market with the same ambition. I remember, during a visit to an innovation lab in Silicon Valley with my former classmates from Stanford University, mentioning Yuka and everyone in the room being revolted, telling me: “rating products (badly), it will never work in the United States!” Well done to the Yuka team!
15. Adrien Lelièvre – Tech Journalist at Les Échos
With his incisive and enlightening pen, Adrien deciphers the transformations of tech and major trends.
16. Yann LeCun – AI Researcher and Chief AI Scientist at Meta
A pioneer of deep learning, Yann LeCun is a world figure in artificial intelligence. Follow his verbal jousting with Elon Musk on Twitter: pure spectacle!
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