Bernard Arnault, founder and CEO of LVMH, has been elected as a member of the Académie des Sciences Morales et Politiques, one of France's prestigious learned societies. The election took place with Arnault receiving 27 votes in the political economics, statistics, and finance section, succeeding the late Denis Kessler.
The Académie comprises 50 members across various fields, including philosophy, law, and history. Arnault's election was met with some opposition, as seven voters expressed dissent through abstentions and 'no' votes.
This esteemed position allows Arnault to influence French policy, as the Académie aims to enhance literature, science, and the arts. His election follows a challenging week, during which he appeared in court regarding an investigation linked to Bernard Squarcini, former head of France's intelligence service.
Arnault, 75, has been a prominent figure in the business world, having transformed LVMH into a €300 billion enterprise since its founding in 1987. Speculation continues about his succession, with his son Alexandre recently appointed deputy chief executive of Moët Hennessy.