Francois Austin

Partner and Global Head, Energy and Natural Resources, Oliver Wyman
With a French academic scholar for a mother and a pragmatic English businessman for a father, Francois' view of business strategy and change was shaped early on.

With a French academic scholar for a mother and a pragmatic English businessman for a father, Francois' view of business strategy and change was shaped early on. It is underpinned by the themes of practicality, curiosity, humanity, commerciality and a willingness to work hard. Great foundations for a consultant; he is now the lead Partner in Oliver Wyman's Energy practice.

"During my career I have contributed to teams that have made very real differences to client systems while growing the confidence and capability of clients in terms of their ability to lead and manage change. In this business you must be curious, act with integrity, fall in love with your client and know when to leave."

"I would like to build up my portfolio of private equity investments, take on an additional 1-2 non-executive roles, influence the strategic evolution of OW, support my clients, sail, ski, travel, complete the European 4000ers, bag a few big mountains in Nepal and continue to be present for my family... there's so much to do in life!"

François specializes in strategy, post-merger integration, leadership development and risk management. He's lived and worked all over the world: London, Paris, Rotterdam and the US and worked for Oil and Gas and Utility clients across North and South America, Europe and the Middle East.

François has also contributed to various management books, including The Discipline of Market Leaders; Surfing on the Edge of Chaos and co-authored Strategic Thinking in Tactical Times. He is a frequent conference speaker and commentator in the press.