Richard Attias, born in Morocco in 1959, is a civil engineering graduate with a master's in mathematics and physics. His early career at IBM ignited a passion for innovation, driving him to establish firms in the IT and Global Communications sectors.
Richard's career at Publicis Group included serving as Founder and Executive Chairman of Publicis Events Worldwide. From 1993—2008, he produced the World Economic Forum Annual Meeting in Davos and co-founded the Nobel Laureates Conferences. He has crafted over 1,000 high-profile events such as the Jordan Festival, Organization of Islamic Cooperation Conference, UNESCO-L’Oréal for Women in Science, and corporate events for the likes of Sanofi and Renault.
Renowned for guiding international leaders, in 2008 Richard was tapped by H.H. Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum to shape Dubai's nation branding strategy. Under his advisement, Dubai became the region's top destination.
In the same year, he launched Richard Attias & Associates, specializing in nation branding. As Founder and Chairman, he reimagined Marrakech's communication strategy and advised the Moroccan Tourism Authority from 2010—2015. His co-founding of Clinton Global Initiative, The New York Forum, and The New York Forum AFRICA showcases his dedication to international discourse.
From 2014—2019, at the behest of President Macky Sall, Richard positioned Senegal as a Sub-Saharan leader, spotlighting Dakar as a global events destination.
Since 2008, Richard has orchestrated a plethora of events, such as the Beijing Olympics opening ceremony, African Cup, APEC CEO Summit, Misk Global Forum, Future Minerals Forum, Red Sea Film Festival, and of course the Future Investment Initiative. These platforms foster connections with global financial institutions, facilitating financing for emerging markets alongside government leaders.
In 2018, Richard entered into a financial partnership with Sanabil, part of the Saudi Public Investment Fund. A year later, he became CEO of FII Institute, dedicated to empowering global minds for a brighter future. In 2024, he has been appointed a Special Advisor to PIF.
Richard's three-decade journey, characterized by visionary leadership, has cemented his position as a go-to advisor for Heads of State aiming to enhance their nation's brand and realize socio-economic objectives.
Richard is married to Cecilia Attias, former First Lady of France, and Chairwoman of Cecilia Attias Foundation for Women.
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