To celebrate 20 years of Accuracy and the 10th anniversary of our partnership with the BFM Awards, we launched “Voies d’Entrepreneurs” (Trailblazer Talks), a three-episode podcast series that gives voice to entrepreneurs and highlights the bold decisions and pivotal moments of their careers. This series features past laureates of the BFM Entrepreneur Award, which Accuracy has proudly sponsored for the past decade.
In this third episode, Frédéric Sanchez, Chairman of FIVES and 2018 BFM Entrepreneur Award winner, joins Frédéric Duponchel, President of Accuracy, to reflect on the key decisions that have shaped his journey.
A Legacy of Industrial Innovation
FIVES is a centuries-old industrial group known for some of the world’s most iconic feats of engineering. The company designed the lifts in the Eiffel Tower, a unique challenge since the tower’s structure required them to operate at an inclined angle rather than moving straight up. FIVES also played a key role in constructing various Parisian landmarks, such as the Alexandre III Bridge and the Orsay train station, where our Paris office recently celebrated its 20th anniversary. Today, FIVES is a leader in industrial decarbonisation, delivering low-carbon combustion, electrification and carbon capture solutions, for example as a key AWS partner, supporting energy-efficient data centres. It is also at the cutting-edge of industrial AI solutions, integrating AI-driven automation and predictive maintenance to players in the steel, cement and aerospace sectors to optimise their industrial processes.
From CFO to Primary Shareholder: The Boldest Move
Frédéric Sanchez’s career at FIVES is testament to his rare ability to bridge two worlds: finance and industry. As Frédéric Duponchel highlights, his atypical profile sets him apart: though not an engineer, he is just as comfortable discussing strategy in the boardroom as he is engaging with engineers on the factory floor. He wears both hats with ease, seamlessly combining technical insight with financial acumen.
His boldest move? Transitioning from CFO to primary shareholder, a decision that required more than just professional conviction; it was a calculated risk, made possible by unwavering trust and support from his wife. When faced with the challenge of financing the LBO, it was a shared belief in his vision that turned an ambitious move into reality.
25 Years of Trusted Partnership
This episode also sheds light on the long-standing collaboration between FIVES and Accuracy. The two Frédérics have known each other for 25 years, from before Accuracy was even founded. Throughout this time, FIVES has relied on Accuracy for critical, high-stakes ‘commando-style’ operations requiring fast, decisive action. Whether tackling complex restructuring, acquisitions, or industrial transformations, Accuracy has helped FIVES navigate uncertainty, make the right calls and avoid costly mistakes.
Judo, Business and the Art of Balance
The deep connection between FIVES and Accuracy is reflected in the way both leaders see each other, not just as business partners, but as teammates fighting side by side. Their shared passion for judo mirrors their approach to business: in judo, as in industry and consulting, success comes from adapting, anticipating and finding balance in imbalance. And just as in business, your opponent is both your competitor and your partner, pushing you to evolve and make the right moves at the right time.
🎧 Listen in to discover how bold decisions, trusted partnerships and entrepreneurial vision shape the future of industry. ➡️ Full podcast