ESSEC Business School announces the creation of its Institutes, Development and Impact Department and two new executive appointments. These changes will support ESSEC’s strategy and strengthen its societal commitment.
ESSEC Business School announces two key appointments to its Executive Committee and the creation of the Institutes, Development and Impact Department
6.10.2026
In his new role, Felix Papier leads the Institutes, Development and Impact Department, which he represents on ESSEC’s Executive Committee. This new structure brings together ESSEC’s corporate social responsibility strategy and its four strategic institutes:
- Together Institute for Sustainability & Social Change
- Metalab Institute for Artificial Intelligence, Data, and Society
- Institute for Geopolitics & Business
- Institute for Entrepreneurship and Innovation
Felix Papier holds a PhD in Management (specializing in supply chain management) from the University of Cologne and a Master's in Information Systems Management from the University of Münster. He began his career as a Senior Strategy Consultant at McKinsey & Company (2008-2011). Dr. Papier joined ESSEC in 2011 as Professor of Supply Chain Management and has held the ESSEC Global Circular Economy Chair since 2023. His research and teaching focus on industrial strategy, the circular economy, corporate responsibility, information sharing in the supply chain, and humanitarian operations. He served as Academic Director of the ESSEC & Mannheim Executive MBA from 2015 to 2017 and as Dean of Pre-Experience Programs from 2017 to 2022.
“I am proud to take responsibility for ESSEC's four institutes, pillars of our thought leadership that address key contemporary challenges. Their mission is to create high-value experiences for students, amplify our faculty expertise, transform our knowledge into innovative models and partnerships, and drive high-impact projects. At a time of great uncertainty, these institutes bring together our entire ecosystem of stakeholders, faculty, corporate partners, students, and alumni, to co-create solutions for the future,” said Felix Papier.
With over twenty years of experience in human resources leadership and executive management roles, Delphine has guided major human and organizational transformations within international groups and leading institutions, including Dior, Rossignol, Lecta, ESCP Business School and Nestlé.
Her background blends corporate enterprise and higher education, giving her a deep understanding of talent development, change management, and the challenges of organizational transformation.
“Joining ESSEC means joining a dedicated and talented community. An institution lives through those who bring it to life every day. My vision as Director of Human Capital is simple: I will listen to my colleagues, and help each and every one fulfill their potential. It is through excellence and teamwork that we will achieve our goals. Shaping tomorrow’s leaders is an incredible undertaking!” said Delphine Olivier.
Julia Smith, International Media Relations Officer - 01 34 43 98 25 – smith@essec.edu
Marie Caroline Saro, External Communications Manager - 06 99 09 82 25 – saro@essec.edu
