About

Since its creation in 2006 when India-based steel-maker Mittal Steel bought Arcelor of Spain, France, and Luxembourg, ArcelorMittal has become the world’s largest steel producer. Headquartered in Luxembourg, the company produces high-grade metals for automakers and other clients. The current makeup of its French legal team is significant in both size and experience. Since 2013 Laurent Lombart, who joined in 2006, has headed the French team as deputy general counsel. Another notable member of the team is David Newton who is responsible for managing the group’s worldwide book of litigation and reporting. Senior legal counsel and IP/IT team manager Sylvie Floury also adds a wealth of knowledge having joined Arcelor in 1986, as does senior legal counsel Vanessa Rizzi who joined in 1997. Noëlle Belmimoun also plays a significant role as finance head of legal and compliance officer, whilst Delphine Feraud Valendru is head of legal for purchasing platforms, international distribution and joint ventures. Following recent closures of a couple of steel plants in the region, the team assisted the company in investing approximately €180m in other sectors of the giant steel works in the French valley. With a production capacity of 10 million tonnes from over 40 production sites and representing 70% of jobs in the French steel industry, ArcelorMittal France has maintained its position as a key contributor to the country’s economy. The team will also play an important role if the company decides to sell – as has been suggested – two of its French units namely Solustil, which makes steel for car bodies, and WireSolutions, which makes fencing wire and nails.