Thales has named Jean-Bernard Lévy its chairman and chief executive officer following the resignation of Luc Vigneron. Lévy was previously a member of the company’s board of directors.

He is a graduate of the École Polytechnique and Télécom ParisTech. Most recently, he served Vivendi as chairman of its management board and, earlier, its chief executive officer.

Lévy began his career in 1979 with France Telecom as an engineer, later serving as deputy head of personnel. In 1995 he was appointed chairman and chief executive officer of Matra Communication, and in 1998 he joined Oddo et Cie as chief executive officer, then managing partner.

In addition to his corporate work, in 1986 he was an advisor to Gérard Longuet, the French minister for postal and telecommunications services. From 1993-95, he was chief of staff to Longuet, then the French minister for industry, postal and telecommunications services, and foreign trade.

Lévy is a chevalier of the Légion d’Honneur and an officer of the Ordre National du Mérite.

He said he is “very proud to be appointed to lead Thales. I have been aware for many years of the passion and the high-level expertise of the men and women who contribute to the group’s numerous successes in many countries around the world. In the global marketplace, Thales has all the strengths needed to play a leading role. I know I can count on the energy and commitment of all to meet the challenges ahead and work together to develop our group.”