has been deputy CEO of Foyer Group since 1 May 2024. A statistical engineer with a master’s degree in information systems and management control, she began her career in insurance with Axa in Paris in 1996. After rising through the ranks, she moved to Warsaw in 2008 to join the executive committee of Axa’s Polish subsidiary.

There, Massard managed the group’s marketing strategy for central and eastern Europe before taking charge of the individual and SME markets. She was then appointed head of distribution for Axa Poland. In September 2012, she became CEO and executive director of Axa Luxembourg, and in 2016, she took on an additional role as CEO of Axa Wealth Europe, a newly created entity. Returning to France in 2020, she was appointed CEO of Axa France Région Ouest and, in 2022, CEO of Axa Banque.

From March 2016 to March 2018, Massard was also president of Aca, the Luxembourg association of insurers and reinsurers.

Paperjam: What do you think of quotas for women on boards? Are they necessary or counterproductive in your view?

Marie-Hélène Massard: As a matter of principle, I’d prefer not to use them. But it has to be said that they are necessary, not only to raise awareness of the lack of representation of women--and, by extension, the lack of diversity in these bodies--but also, and above all, to encourage concrete and effective action to remedy the situation. And the road is still long and winding! Quotas therefore remain an essential transitional measure for initiating profound and lasting change.

In your opinion, how does diversity influence the performance of a board of directors?

Numerous studies have already demonstrated a positive correlation between board diversity and financial performance. By encouraging a greater variety of viewpoints, diversity brings a wealth of perspectives, both on the risks to be controlled and the opportunities to be realised. This plurality improves the quality of decisions taken and performance. Nevertheless, greater diversity requires an inclusive culture where different points of view are truly heard and valued.

What advice would you give to a woman who is hesitating to take the plunge?

First of all, I would recommend that she gets well informed so that she has a clear and objective understanding of what it means to be an director, but also to be aware of the wealth she can bring through her skills, experience or vision. Talking to women who already hold these positions can be an excellent way of answering questions and drawing inspiration from their experiences. Last but not least, I’d tell her not to wait until she thinks she’s perfect before taking the plunge!

This article was originally published in .