Governance Evolution at BIC: A New Chapter

BIC, the global leader in stationery, lighters, and shavers, is set to embark on a new chapter in its governance evolution. The company has announced the initiation of a transition process to close out the tenure of Gonzalve Bich, the third-generation family member to serve as CEO, and appoint a new leader by September 30th, 2025. This article explores the key aspects of this transition, the legacy of Gonzalve Bich, and the strategic direction of BIC under new leadership.



Gonzalve Bich, who has served as CEO since 2014, has played a pivotal role in transforming BIC into a fast-moving consumer goods company. Under his leadership, BIC has achieved remarkable growth, with revenues surpassing 2 billion euros and an annual innovation rate of 10% of net sales. His strategic focus on brand portfolio management and innovation has driven the company's growth and market penetration. Diversification, a cornerstone of Bich's Horizon strategy, has been solidified through acquisitions like Tangle Teezer and Rocketbook, opening up new avenues in personal care and digital writing.



Bich's commitment to sustainable development has been instrumental in enhancing BIC's reputation and market position. The "Writing The Future, Together" program, launched in 2018, aims to improve the learning conditions of 250 million children globally by 2025 and reduce or eliminate virgin plastics in products and packaging by 2030. This forward-looking approach has positioned BIC as a responsible and sustainable company, appealing to environmentally conscious consumers.

As Bich steps down, the BIC Board of Directors has expressed its gratitude for his years of dedication, effort, and achievements. Nikos Koumettis, Chair of the Board, acknowledged Bich's initiatives to accelerate innovation, product launches, and geographic expansion, which have brought value creation and strength to the Group's foundations. The Board has decided to create a succession committee, including Bich, to ensure a smooth transition and maintain the company's momentum, profitable growth trajectory, and commercial discipline.



The succession committee will play a pivotal role in identifying and evaluating potential candidates for the CEO position. Both internal and external candidates will be considered, ensuring a thorough and comprehensive search process. The new CEO will be expected to align with BIC's mission and values, maintain its strategic direction, and continue the company's focus on consumer-centric innovation, sustainability, and global growth, as outlined in the Horizon Strategic Plan.

In conclusion, the governance evolution at BIC marks a new chapter in the company's 80-year legacy. Gonzalve Bich's strategic focus on brand portfolio management, innovation, and sustainable development has positioned BIC as a leading consumer goods company. As the company looks to the future, the succession committee will ensure a smooth transition, maintaining BIC's strong foundation and talented teams, and positioning the company for continued success under new leadership.