Billionaire Profile
Alain Taravella
Global Rank
#1638

Image: Jacques Paquier | CC BY 2.0 | via Wikimedia Commons

Alain Taravella

CEO, Real estate development
FRANCE
Real-Time Net Worth
$2.513B
Estimated based on Real estate development stock value as of March 6, 2026
+0.09% (24h)
Age
78
Source
Real estate development
Industry
Real Estate
Citizenship
FRANCE

Biography

Alain Taravella is a French entrepreneur and billionaire, recognized for his significant contributions to the real estate sector. Born on May 24, 1948, he is the co-founder, chairman, and CEO of Altarea Cogedim, a leading French real estate development firm. With a career spanning several decades, Taravella's expertise in real estate has been instrumental in shaping urban landscapes, overseeing the development of numerous shopping centers and residential properties. His strategic vision and leadership have propelled Altarea Cogedim to become a key player in the French real estate market. As of February 2026, his estimated net worth is $1.3 billion.

Fact Checked
Verified by Editorial Team
Live Data
Updated 3/6/2026

Wealth Over Time

In-Depth Profile

Early Life and Education

Alain Taravella was born on May 24, 1948, in Falaise, Calvados, France. His early interest in real estate and business led him to pursue a degree at HEC Paris, a prestigious business school, graduating in 1971. During his studies, he financed his education through real estate transactions.

Rise to Success

Taravella's career began in 1975 when he joined the Brémond group, where he became the head of the leisure division. In 1978, the group transitioned into Pierre & Vacances, specializing in leisure centers. Taravella became CEO in 1985. In 1994, he founded Altarea, a shopping center development company. He took advantage of the downturn in the real estate market in the early 1990s to acquire land in droves. In 1999, he worked on the Bercy Village development project, which Altarea marketed. The company was listed on the stock exchange in 2004. In 2007, he acquired Cogedim, a real estate developer of housing and offices.

Key Business Strategies

Taravella's business strategies have focused on strategic acquisitions and development projects. His ability to identify and capitalize on market opportunities, such as the real estate downturn in the early 1990s, allowed him to acquire valuable land assets. The acquisition of Cogedim in 2007 further expanded Altarea's portfolio, establishing it as a major player in the French real estate market. He also spearheaded projects like Bercy Village and Cap 3000, enhancing urban renewal.

Philanthropy

While specific philanthropic amounts aren't available, Taravella is known for his participation in philanthropic initiatives focused on education and social causes.

Career Milestones

1971

Graduated from HEC Paris

Graduated from HEC Paris, a prestigious business school in France.

1975

Joined Brémond Group

Joined Brémond Group and became head of the leisure division.

1985

CEO of Pierre & Vacances

Became CEO of Pierre & Vacances.

1994

Founded Altarea

Founded Altarea, a shopping center development company.

1999

Bercy Village Development

Worked on the Bercy Village development project.

2004

Altarea Listed on Stock Exchange

Altarea listed on the stock exchange.

2007

Acquired Cogedim

Acquired Cogedim, a real estate developer of housing and offices.

Philanthropy & Social Impact

Education and Social Causes

Education and Social Causes

Undisclosed

Participates in philanthropic initiatives focused on education and social causes.