After 8 years spent as President of Alstom Transport, Philippe Mellier has decided to pursue his career outside of Alstom. He will join De Beers, the world’s leading diamond company, as group CEO. This appointment will be effective July 1st, 2011.

Patrick Kron, Chairman & CEO of Alstom has expressed to Philippe Mellier “our sincere thanks for his dedication to the company and the results achieved since he joined Alstom Transport in May 2003.” He added that Philippe Mellier “has developed Alstom Transport’s positions in a number of markets and product lines. He has notably built a major partnership in Russia, very promising for the future of Alstom Transport.”

Until further notice, Patrick Kron will be acting as President of Alstom Transport after Philippe Mellier’s departure.