A graduate from France’s HEC business school, Francois-Henri Pinault joined the Pinault Group in 1987, where he held positions in several of the Group’s operating businesses.

Mr. Pinault started his career as a salesman in timber import and retail business at the Evreux branch of Pinault Distribution. In 1988, he established the company’s purchasing group for which he was responsible until 1989.

He was later appointed CEO of France Bois Industries, where he managed the company’s fourteen plants. In 1990 Mr. Pinault became the Chairman of Pinault Distribution.

In 1993, his duties were expanded when he became Chairman of CFAO,  a leader in specialized distribution in Africa and joined PPR’s Executive Board. Four years later, he was appointed Chairman and CEO of FNAC, a position he held until 2000. He then became Deputy CEO of PPR and was responsible for the group’s online strategy and business initiatives.

Mr. Pinault was appointed Co-manager of Financiere Pinault in 2000 and Chairman of the Artemis Group in 2003. In 2005, Mr. Pinault became Chairman and CEO of PPR.

Mr. Pinault is also Chairman of the Supervisory Board of Puma AG, Vice-Chairman of the Supervisory Board of CFAO and is a member of the Board of Directors of Bouygues.