Joins SKEMA Business School
At the start of June 2025, Frédérique Vidal became the Director of Strategy and Scientific Impact at SKEMA Business School, a private French institution with around 11,000 students from 130 countries . Her mission includes setting the school’s long-term vision and helping guide short-, medium-, and long-term strategic plans. This will involve key areas like international reach, digital transformation, artificial intelligence, and ecological and social change.
Education and Previous Positions
Before joining SKEMA, Vidal held major academic and government roles. From 2012 to 2017, she served as President of Université de Nice Sophia Antipolis, and from 2017 to 2022, she was the Minister of Higher Education, Research, and Innovation under President Macron . She also has a strong scientific background as a university professor specializing in molecular biology.
Role in SKEMA’s Think Tank
In addition to her main role, Vidal leads SKEMA’s think tank known as SKEMA Publika. She develops strategies to promote the school’s research efforts, shape public debate, and position SKEMA as an influencer in global social, economic, and environmental changes.
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Her Statement and SKEMA’s Vision
Vidal said, “I will give all my energy to serve an institution that combines academic excellence, social impact, and global ambition.” SKEMA’s CEO, Alice Guilhon, praised Vidal’s unique experience in both academic and political arenas, calling it a major asset for SKEMA’s global development
Compliance with Ethics Rules
According to France’s High Authority for Transparency in Public Life (HATVP), Vidal had to wait three years after leaving her ministerial post before joining SKEMA. This rule helps prevent conflicts of interest between public duties and private roles
Final Thoughts
This move bridges the worlds of government, academia, and business. With her scientific and leadership experience, Frédérique Vidal is set to greatly shape SKEMA’s future—reinforcing its reputation for academic excellence while boosting its social and environmental influence. Her transition shows how former public leaders can help guide higher education institutions into the fast-changing future of global learning and innovation.