Philippe Pascal has been appointed Interim CEO of the airport management company Groupe ADP, pending the officialization of his appointment by the Council of Ministers. He has chosen the director of Paris-Orly as Deputy Managing Director, the company announced.
Previously Deputy Managing Director of Finance, Strategy, and Administration of ADP, Philippe Pascal, 53, was nominated in January by President Emmanuel Macron to succeed Augustin de Romanet as head of the company, which is 50.6% owned by the State.
The relevant committees of the National Assembly and the Senate approved this nomination on February 12. According to procedure, it must be the subject of a decree issued by the Council of Ministers. Accordingly, the appointment announced Tuesday is "interim, by decision of the State Shareholding Commissioner, by delegation of the Minister of the Economy, Finance, and Industrial and Digital Sovereignty, dated February 18, 2025, until the publication of the decree in the Council of Ministers," according to the group.
One of Philippe Pascal’s first decisions was to appoint a Deputy Managing Director. This is the current director of Orly Airport, Justine Coutard, ADP specified in a press release. Justine Coutard will have "the same powers as the Chairman and CEO with regard to third parties" and "will be in charge of sustainable development and development issues within the company," according to the same source.
A graduate of the École Nationale d’Administration, École Normale Supérieure, and Sciences-Po Paris, Justine Coutard, 39, has been managing the second-largest French airport since the end of 2020. An Inspector of Finances, she was Deputy Director between 2018 and 2020, then Chief of Staff to the Minister of Action and Public Accounts Gérald Darmanin, current Minister of Justice.
Philippe Pascal’s Background and Qualifications
Philippe Pascal brings a wealth of experience and expertise to his new role as Interim CEO of ADP. With over 25 years in the aviation industry, he has held various leadership positions within ADP, including Deputy Managing Director of Finance, Strategy, and Administration.
Pascal’s strong financial acumen and strategic vision have been instrumental in driving ADP’s growth and profitability. He played a pivotal role in the company’s successful expansion into new markets and the development of innovative services.
Justine Coutard’s Background and Qualifications
Justine Coutard is a highly accomplished executive with a proven track record in airport management. As the former Director of Paris-Orly Airport, she oversaw the operations of one of France’s busiest airports, ensuring efficient and seamless passenger experiences.
Coutard’s expertise in sustainable development and airport planning will be invaluable to ADP as it navigates the challenges and opportunities of the industry’s transformation.
ADP’s Future Outlook
Under the leadership of Philippe Pascal and Justine Coutard, ADP is well-positioned to continue its growth trajectory and strengthen its position as a leading global airport operator.
The company’s focus on innovation, customer service, and sustainability will be key to its success in the years to come. ADP is committed to providing seamless and sustainable travel experiences for its passengers while driving economic growth and job creation in the regions it serves.
Conclusion
The appointment of Philippe Pascal and Justine Coutard marks a new chapter for ADP. Their combined experience and vision will enable the company to navigate the evolving aviation landscape and emerge stronger than ever. ADP is well-poised to continue as a global leader in airport management, delivering exceptional services and driving sustainable growth.
