Veolia has appointed Nadège Petit as Chief Executive Officer of its North America Zone, effective December 1, 2025. Petit will also join the company’s executive committee, reinforcing Veolia’s leadership team as it seeks to expand its presence in one of its most dynamic markets.
The appointment aligns with Veolia’s GreenUp strategic program, which aims to strengthen the company’s position in the United States, a key growth region for the group. The company said the move will enhance its ability to deliver “innovative and profitable solutions” while pursuing organic growth and new market opportunities.
“North America is a cornerstone of Veolia’s global growth strategy, and I'm happy that we can reinforce our leadership team at this pivotal moment of acceleration of our activities,” said Estelle Brachlianoff, Chief Executive Officer of Veolia. “With her business development track record and her strong background in global energy and resilience solutions, Nadège will bring her dynamism to drive profitable and innovative growth in this key region, meeting strong demand driven by megatrends such as the relocation of strategic industries, water shortages, pollution treatment, and public health concerns.”
Petit, who has more than two decades of experience in international business development and innovation, will oversee operations across Veolia’s North American businesses, including water, waste, and energy services.
Petit, who has more than two decades of experience in international business development and innovation, will oversee operations across Veolia’s North American businesses
“I look forward to working with our North American teams to drive innovation, growth, operational excellence, and expand our services — delivering impact for the environment, our clients, and our shareholders,” Petit said.
In the United States, Veolia is the largest private operator and technology provider in the water sector, and a leader in hazardous waste and pollution treatment. The company has expanded its footprint through increased demand, organic growth, and the successful integration of Suez, which it acquired in recent years.
Petit joins Veolia after more than 20 years at Schneider Electric, where she held several senior leadership roles in Europe, Hong Kong, and the United States. Most recently, she served as Chief Innovation Officer and was a member of Schneider Electric’s Global Executive Committee. In that role, she was responsible for advancing new technologies, business models, and partnerships through open innovation and investments.
Previously, she was Executive Vice President of the Power Products division, managing the global low-voltage power business. Petit also serves on the Supervisory Board of E.ON SE and is a member of its Innovation and Sustainability Committee.
A graduate of the University of Technology of Compiègne with a master’s degree in mechanical engineering, Petit also holds an Executive MBA from Kingston University in London.
