Societe Generale announced the appointment of Francois Bloch as Head of International Retail Banking for Africa, Mediterranean Basin Overseas. Francois Bloch will take his new position on 1 November 2023, replacing Laurent Goutard who will leave the Group in 2024 to pursue new professional and personal projects. Francois will report to Delphine Garcin-Meunier, Head of Mobility and International Retail Banking Financial Services.

Francois Bloch joined the Group more than 30 years ago. He has held several key positions within International Retail Banking. He was First Deputy Chairman of Rosbank in Russia from 2012 to 2016.

After that, he was Chief Executive Officer of BRD in Romania until September 2023. In both countries, he successfully transformed the bank's operating model to improve profitability and efficiency while also successfully developing commercial activities. In Romania, he also accelerated the rollout of BRD's digital offer.

His experience in retail and corporate banking, and his in-depth management knowledge of Societe Generale's international subsidiaries, will be major assets in his new role. As Head of International Retail Banking for Africa, Mediterranean Basin Overseas, Francois will be responsible for overseeing the region's activities, optimizing the organization, and increasing its efficiency to ensure sustainable profitability. He will also ensure that risk management and compliance are carried out to the highest standard.

Alongside expert and committed teams, Francois will be responsible for shaping a simplified, integrated and synergetic business model by strengthening proximity between the Group's various business lines.