Gilles Gautier Succeeds Retiring Alain Aubry

It sounds like a pretty big job, being the head of a company's airplane sales for half the planet. But that's the title Dassault Aviation has handed to Gilles Gautier ... Vice President of Falcon sales for the Eastern Hemisphere. The position was previously held by Alain Aubry, who retired after leading the sales team for 10 years.

Over the last 20 years, Gautier (pictured, right) has held a variety of sales positions with Dassault Aviation, and has sold over 150 Falcon aircraft. Most recently, he served as the deputy Vice President of sales. In his new position, Gautier will lead the sales team in charge of Europe, Middle East, Africa and India, including sales offices in Moscow, Dubai and New Delhi.

"Gilles' invaluable experience will be a great asset as Dassault looks to strengthen its position in different markets such as the Middle East and India," said John Rosanvallon, President and CEO of Dassault Falcon. "He brings with him a proven track record of success, and a comprehensive understanding of the needs of our customers."

Gautier started his aviation career at Snecma, the French aviation engines manufacturer, where he was a financial officer within the Credit and Treasury Department. There, he was involved in sales financing and contract administration for civilian and military sales. In 1989, he joined Dassault Aviation in Paris, as sales director for China. He was also responsible for sales in Northern Europe, Benelux, Switzerland and West Africa, and was appointed deputy Vice President of sales in 2003.

Gautier graduated from Paris-Assas University, in France and holds a Masters Degree in Law and a Masters Degree in Civilizations and Oriental languages (Chinese) from La Sorbonne-French University. He also earned a degree from the Institute of International Business in Paris. 53 year-old Gilles Gautier is married with two children. He holds a Private Pilot licence.

FMI: www.dassaultfalcon.com