Billionaire Profile

Global Rank

#1410

Image: Public domain | via Wikimedia Commons

Charles Edelstenne & family

CEO, Dassault Aviation

Real-Time Net Worth

$2.8B

As of December 2025

Age

Source

Aviation

Industry

diversified

Citizenship

Biography

Charles Edelstenne, a prominent figure in the aviation industry, and his family have an estimated net worth of $2.8 billion. Born on January 9, 1938, Edelstenne served as the CEO of Dassault Aviation from 2000 to 2013 and was the chairman of Dassault Systèmes until 2023. His career began at Dassault Aviation in 1960 as the Chief Financial Officer. He then progressed through various leadership roles within the Dassault Group. Edelstenne's career is marked by his significant contributions to the success of Dassault Aviation, a leading manufacturer of military aircraft and business jets. He also played a key role in the development of the Eurofighter Typhoon fighter jet. He stepped down as head of the Dassault family holding company on his 87th birthday in January 2025.

Wealth Over Time

Portfolio Holdings

Dassault Systèmes

In-Depth Profile

Early Life

Charles Edelstenne was born on January 9, 1938, in Paris, France. Information about his early life and childhood is limited, but he later became a key figure in the aerospace sector.

Rise to Success

Edelstenne's career began in 1960 when he joined Dassault Aviation as the Chief Financial Officer. He rapidly ascended through the ranks, taking on roles such as General Secretary and Vice President. In 2000, he took over as CEO of Dassault Aviation. He was also Chairman of Dassault Systèmes from 1993 to 2002, later remaining as its Chairman. In January 2025, he stepped down as the head of the Dassault family holding company.

Key Business Strategies

Edelstenne's success at Dassault can be attributed to a number of factors, including his financial acumen, strategic leadership, and focus on innovation. He was involved in creating simulation software, and also led Dassault Aviation to be one of the leading aerospace companies in the world.

Philanthropy

Information regarding Charles Edelstenne's specific philanthropic initiatives and amounts is not readily available through the search results.

Career Milestones

1960

Joined Dassault Aviation

Began his career at Dassault Aviation as Chief Financial Officer.

1975

Became General Secretary of Dassault

Assumed a key leadership role within the company.

1986

Vice President of Dassault

Took on a more senior executive position.

2000

CEO of Dassault Aviation

Became CEO, succeeding Serge Dassault.

1993-2002

Chairman and CEO of Dassault Systèmes

Served as Chairman and CEO, then remained Chairman.

2005-2009

President of GIFAS

Served as President of the French GIFAS (Groupement des Industries Françaises Aéronautiques et Spatiales)

2023

Retired as Chairman of Dassault Systèmes

Stepped down as chairman.

2025

Stepped down as head of the Dassault family holding company

Retired from his position as head of the Dassault family holding company.