Alexis Kohler, a key figure in the Macron administration for eight years, is leaving the Élysée Palace to become the deputy general director at Société Générale. Starting in June, he will lead the investment division, overseeing crucial financial operations. His departure marks a significant transition for both the presidency and the banking sector, coinciding with a major restructuring at Société Générale. Kohler’s influential tenure at the Élysée has been notable for its low public profile yet substantial impact on decision-making.
A New Chapter Begins for Alexis Kohler
After eight years of quietly wielding influence, Alexis Kohler, often referred to as the ‘vice-president’, is bidding farewell to the Élysée Palace. His recent appointment as the deputy general director of Société Générale, announced on Friday, March 28, 2025, signifies a pivotal shift in the landscape of the Macron administration. Kohler has been a crucial, albeit understated, component of the Élysée’s operations since 2017.
Starting in June, he will take charge of the investment division within the banking giant, overseeing mergers and acquisitions, equity capital markets, and will serve on the executive committee. This notable career transition has been endorsed by the High Authority for Transparency in Public Life and has garnered praise from Société Générale’s CEO, Slawomir Krupa, who expressed excitement about bringing on board ‘his talent, vast experience, and exceptional commitment.’
A Strategic Shift in Governance
The announcement of Kohler’s departure, which had been in the works for several weeks, was officially confirmed on Thursday, March 27. In a statement to the Figaro, President Emmanuel Macron lauded Kohler’s ‘energy, talent, and remarkable work ethic.’ This departure signifies more than just a shift for Macron; it represents the loss of a key confidant and collaborator, a partnership that has been integral since their time at Bercy.
This transition coincides with significant restructuring efforts at Société Générale, which is currently implementing a comprehensive plan aimed at savings and internal transformation. Kohler’s new role will not merely position him as a banking executive; he will be pivotal in strategizing for the group, overseeing human resources, communication, and the general secretariat. This decision reflects the La Défense group’s ambition to evolve following a leadership change initiated in 2024 by Krupa.
Kohler’s tenure at the Élysée has been characterized by a unique style—rarely seen in the media yet omnipresent in critical decision-making. He stands out as the only secretary general to serve a full presidential term, with his influence frequently likened to that of Jean-Louis Bianco under Mitterrand. At 52, and armed with degrees from Sciences Po, Essec, and ENA, Kohler’s journey began as chief of staff to Pierre Moscovici, later becoming Emmanuel Macron’s right hand at the Ministry of Economy before transitioning to the Élysée in 2017.
Emmanuel Moulin, the former director of the Treasury and ex-chief of staff to Gabriel Attal at Matignon, will succeed Kohler on April 14. This change not only signifies the conclusion of an era but also paves the way for new governance dynamics both in the presidency and within the banking group.
Although the appointment has received the green light from the High Authority, it has sparked discussions around potential conflicts of interest stemming from previous investigations into questionable interests. The Paris Court of Appeal confirmed in 2024 that inquiries would continue, keeping this case active.
Kohler’s new position could serve as a launching pad toward a future role in general management. A source from the ministry, as reported by Les Échos, suggests that ‘with such a high level of responsibility within the State, this role will likely enable him to rebound later as general director.’