Energy executive Michel Derdevet joins EY-Parthenon in France

EY’s strategy consulting wing EY-Parthenon has added energy executive Michel Derdevet to its team in France.

The 60-year-old is a well-known figure in the French energy scene. Prior to joining EY-Parthenon, Michel Derdevet was a board member at Enedis (formerly ERDF, for ‘Électricité Réseau Distribution France’), a subsidiary of EDF responsible for more than 90% of France’s electricity distribution network. Derdevet held the role for six years. 

Derdevet joined EDF back in 1985 and held a range of leadership positions during his tenure at the energy giant, including Deputy Delegate General for Community Affairs (from 1998 to 2000) and Director of Communication and Public Affairs of RTE (2000 to 2012).

Alongside his work in the energy industry, Derdevet has played an extensive role in France’s political and public domain. From 1984 to 1986, he was chief of staff of Martin Malvy, then Secretary of State for Energy, and more recently he was again the chief of staff of Martin Malvy, then the Minister of the Budget (1992-1993), and chief of staff to Christian Pierret, Minister of Industry (1997-1998).

Last year, Derdevet was part of a commission appointed by François de Rugy, at the time the Minister of Ecology, that was tasked with analysing the different European models of electricity transport and distribution. Upon completing its analysis, the group advised the government on future public policy. 

Appointed a Senior Advisor at EY-Parthenon, Derdevet will leverage his knowledge and network to help the strategy consulting firm develop its offerings and advise project teams. According to Bruno Bousquié, Managing Partner of EY-Parthenon for Western Europe and Northwest Africa, Derdevet will “participate in client projects, contribute to in-depth discussions with the Energy practice and advise the firm’s partner team on business development in the sector.”

Commenting on the addition, Bousquié said: “Michel’s experience, the quality of his strategic thinking and his vision on the evolution of the energy sector will be a great asset to EY-Parthenon in France and beyond.” 

In France, EY-Parthenon has around 140 strategy consultants and staff. The firm is based in the centre of Paris (8th arrondissement), but in February 2021 the consultancy is moving to new premises in La Défense, the business district of Paris.