Richard Bielle replaces Alain Viry as Chairman of the CFAO Management Board

The Supervisory Board of CFAO, chaired by Mr. Jean-Charles Pauze, met today and unanimously decided to appoint Mr. Richard Bielle as member and chairman of the Management Board of CFAO in replacement of Mr. Alain Viry...

The Supervisory Board of CFAO, chaired by Mr. Jean-Charles Pauze, met today and unanimously decided to appoint Mr. Richard Bielle as member and chairman of the Management Board of CFAO in replacement of Mr. Alain Viry. The evolution of the market and the future development of the Company require indeed a leader having both the expertise and a deep knowledge of the CFAO group.

In order to achieve a smooth transition, Mr. Alain Viry will continue to serve as chairman of the Management Board until December 16, 2013, on which date he will be succeeded by Mr. Richard Bielle.

Mr. Alain Viry has deeply contributed to the successful management of the CFAO group during the controlling shareholder transition from Kering to Toyota Tsusho Corporation.

The Supervisory Board wishes every success to Mr Richard Bielle and trusts his experience and his deep knowledge of the CFAO group to accelerate the African multi-business strategy that has been clearly confirmed by the Supervisory Board since CFAO joined the Toyota Tsusho Group.

Mr. Richard Bielle declared: "I will be very happy to lead again CFAO. I am convinced that the diversity of activities of the Toyota Tsusho Group, its long-term vision and its financial strength are additional assets to increase the growth potential and strengthen the position of CFAO as a leading and expanding provider of product and services in Africa".