French CEO Warns Against Business Leader as President in 2027

France's 2027 Presidential Election: Business Leader's Concerns Paris, France – May 25, 2025 – The possibility of Michel-Édouard Leclerc running for president in 2027 has sparked considerable debate in France. Adding to the discussion, Dominique Schelcher, CEO of Cooperative U, recently voiced his concerns during an interview on RTL Matin. Schelcher's reservations highlight a key tension in French politics: the suitability of a business executive to lead the nation. In a recent interview with Amandine Bégot on RTL, Schelcher stated, "La France ne peut pas être gérée par un chef d'entreprise" (France cannot be managed by a business leader). He argued that the complexities of governance require a different skill set than that of running a company. While acknowledging the potential contributions of business leaders in terms of methods and ideas, he emphasized the fundamental differences between the business and political worlds. Schelcher's comments reflect a broader conversation about the qualifications and experience needed for the French presidency. His perspective, as a prominent figure in the French business community, adds weight to the ongoing debate. The interview underscores the complexities of the upcoming election and the diverse range of opinions on the ideal leadership profile for France.