Keolis Group Appoints Youenn Dupuis as CEO for Middle East and Eastern Asia
Keolis Group, a prominent name in public transport and shared mobility solutions, has officially named Youenn Dupuis as CEO for its operations in the Middle East and Eastern Asia. This appointment marks an important step in the company’s strategy to strengthen its presence in these rapidly growing markets.
Leading Strategic Initiatives
In his new role, Dupuis will oversee a diverse range of transit systems, focusing particularly on the Group’s automated metro, tramway, and passenger rail sectors. His responsibilities will involve crafting and executing regional strategies aimed at enhancing safety standards, fostering innovation, and optimizing passenger experiences across advanced transport networks.
Dupuis’ leadership will encompass significant transportation projects in key areas:
United Arab Emirates and Qatar
Dupuis will manage the prestigious Dubai Metro and Tram services, operated through Keolis MHI. Additionally, he will oversee the Doha Metro and Lusail Tram operations, which are vital to public transport in Qatar.
National Expansion in UAE
A major focus for Dupuis will be the groundbreaking Etihad Rail and Keolis joint venture, which aims to launch the UAE’s first national passenger rail services by 2026. This ambitious project is expected to enhance connectivity across all seven Emirates, opening new avenues for travel and economic growth.
Navigating the Chinese Market
Handling operations in one of the most advanced transit markets globally, Dupuis will be responsible for overseeing automated metro and tramway systems in China. This responsibility not only showcases the complexity of his new role but also highlights the strategic importance of the Chinese market in the global transport landscape.
Building Collaborative Relationships
In his position, Dupuis will work closely with local authorities and partners to cultivate long-term relationships. His focus on strategic development will guide the implementation of innovative mobility solutions tailored to the needs of the region.
Endorsements from Leadership
Laurence Broseta, the CEO International of Keolis Group, expressed confidence in Dupuis’ appointment, stating, “The Middle East and Eastern Asia are leading the charge in the global shift toward smart, automated, and sustainable mobility.” Broseta emphasized Dupuis’ proven ability to manage complex networks and his success during the preparations for the Paris Olympics, marking him as the ideal leader for their aspirations in these dynamic regions.
Dupuis’ Vision for the Future
Upon his appointment, Dupuis shared his enthusiasm for leading Keolis in a region distinguished by its forward-thinking infrastructure and dedication to innovation. He stated, “My priority is to build on our strong foundations in Dubai, Doha, and China, while ensuring the successful launch and operation of our new rail partnerships in the UAE.” His approach will leverage Keolis’ global expertise along with vital local insights to achieve excellence in safety, reliability, and passenger satisfaction.
A Track Record of Success
Before transitioning to this role, Dupuis enjoyed a transformative tenure as CEO of Keolis in the Greater Paris Region, where he transformed the business into a €1 billion enterprise employing 8,500 people. His leadership was pivotal during the competitive opening of public transport and securing critical contracts, such as the Grand Paris Express and CDG Express. Additionally, he played a crucial role in managing transport logistics for athletes during the upcoming Paris 2024 Olympic and Paralympic Games.
Commitment to Excellence
This appointment underscores Keolis Group’s dedication to securing top leadership talent to support the swift expansion of urban and regional rail networks in the Middle East and Eastern Asia. As Dupuis steps into this pivotal role, the company is poised for significant growth and innovation in the years ahead.
