Alstom Appoints Martin Sion as New CEO to Lead the Company Starting April 2026, Succeeding Henri Poupart-Lafarge

Alstom, the global leader in rail transport solutions, has confirmed the appointment of Martin Sion as its new Chief Executive Officer (CEO). Sion will officially take on the role on April 1, 2026, following an extensive selection process led by Alstom’s board of directors. This change comes after the announcement by the current CEO, Henri Poupart-Lafarge, that he would not seek a fourth term at the helm of the company. Sion’s appointment marks a new chapter for Alstom as it continues to strengthen its position in the global rail market.

Martin Sion’s Experience and Background

Martin Sion brings a rich and diverse background in leadership, particularly within the aerospace industry. Before his appointment at Alstom, Sion was the CEO of Ariane Group, a position he has held since 2023. His career spans several prominent roles, including serving as the chairman of Safran Electronics and Defence, and as the CEO of Aircelle, which is now part of Safran Nacelles. These roles have provided Sion with a deep understanding of complex engineering, manufacturing, and management, which are key to Alstom’s goals of maintaining its technological leadership in the rail industry.

Sion’s educational background, which includes a degree from the prestigious École Centrale de Paris, further complements his extensive industry experience. Philippe Petitcolin, chairman of Alstom’s board of directors, expressed confidence in Sion’s leadership capabilities. “After a thorough search, we are confident that Martin Sion has the right experience to guide Alstom through its next phase of growth and innovation,” Petitcolin stated.

Henri Poupart-Lafarge’s Leadership and Transition

Sion will be succeeding Henri Poupart-Lafarge, who has led Alstom for the past decade. Poupart-Lafarge’s leadership has been instrumental in transforming Alstom, particularly when the company shifted its focus entirely to the rail sector in 2016. Under his guidance, Alstom not only solidified its leadership in rail transportation but also positioned itself as a pioneer in sustainable rail technology and high-speed rail systems.

However, in May 2024, Poupart-Lafarge announced that he would not be seeking a fourth term as CEO. This decision paved the way for the search for a new leader. Until Sion officially takes over in April 2026, Poupart-Lafarge will continue to serve as CEO, ensuring continuity and stability within the company during the leadership transition.

Sion’s Compensation and Terms

Alstom’s board has outlined an attractive compensation package for Martin Sion, reflecting the responsibilities of his new position. Sion will receive an annual base salary of €1.05 million, accompanied by a signing bonus of €1.2 million. Additionally, his compensation includes performance-based incentives, with annual bonuses potentially reaching €1.8 million, as well as a loyalty bonus. This package underscores the company’s commitment to securing a leader who can take Alstom to new heights in the global rail market.

Alstom’s Future Under New Leadership

Sion’s appointment is expected to lead Alstom into a new phase of innovation, especially in the rapidly evolving rail sector. Alstom is poised to benefit from Sion’s vast experience in managing large-scale, high-tech projects. His expertise in aerospace and engineering will bring fresh insights into Alstom’s already formidable engineering capabilities, helping the company maintain its competitive edge.

Under Sion’s leadership, Alstom will continue to build on the strong foundation laid by Poupart-Lafarge, focusing on expanding its global presence and delivering cutting-edge rail solutions to meet the growing demand for sustainable transport worldwide. Sion’s background in managing complex engineering challenges and fostering innovation will be key as Alstom navigates the opportunities and challenges of the modern transportation landscape.

Conclusion

The appointment of Martin Sion as Alstom’s new CEO marks a pivotal moment for the company. With Sion’s impressive background in aerospace and engineering, Alstom is well-positioned to continue its leadership in the global rail industry. The smooth transition from Henri Poupart-Lafarge’s long tenure ensures continuity, while also allowing for fresh leadership to steer Alstom into its next phase of growth and technological advancement.

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