On January 11, 2025, France lost an iconic figure in the digital world with the death of Jean-Michel Billaut. This visionary and future builder left an indelible legacy in the field of technology and innovation. For decades, he played a key role in the digital transformation, helping to decisively shape this sector.
A candid look at technology
Some people have the unique ability to see beyond established conventions. Jean-Michel Billaut was one of these rare individuals. Maintaining a candid and curious look throughout his life, he was able to anticipate technological revolutions before they became obvious to others. His career is a good illustration of this extraordinary clairvoyance.
As early as the 1990s, when many were still skeptical about the potential of the internet, Jean-Michel already saw it as a major revolution. His work at L’Atelier BNP Paribas was not only focused on technology; it also aimed to connect innovative minds and inspire them with his regular conferences. This place quickly became an incubator of ideas where future entrepreneurs and emerging startups rubbed shoulders.
Unanimous tributes
After his death, tributes multiplied, both from those who had worked directly with him and from those who had been influenced by his actions. Contemporary figures in the digital world remembered his humanity, his legendary frankness and his exceptional open-mindedness. We can quote Stéphane Zibi, entrepreneur and co-president of the National Digital Council, who stressed how "it is almost impossible to relay to the younger generations what this extraordinary man with his legendary frankness brought to French tech."
Over the years, Jean-Michel has often been described as a humble person but deeply passionate about innovation. He did not just follow trends; he actively contributed to creating them. Whether through his famous “Billaut Shows” interviews or his public appearances, he popularized complex technological concepts, making this constantly evolving world accessible to everyone.
Patrick Robin, who knew him well, also shared a video on LinkedIn.
The great disruption and the fight for optical fiber
Another important facet of Jean-Michel Billaut’s work was his fierce commitment to democratizing access to optical fiber in France. Seeing this technology as essential to bridging the digital divide, he has consistently campaigned for equal access to high-speed internet. His efforts have helped put this issue in the political and economic spotlight.
Last September, he concluded an article by stating that “The Great Disruption is starting,” once again illustrating his ability to see the broad outlines of the future of technology. This term, far from being insignificant, sums up well the impact that Jean-Michel hoped to see in the mass adoption of new technologies to foster social and economic progress.
A mentor and ambassador for tech
For many young entrepreneurs and emerging talents, Jean-Michel Billaut has been much more than just an advisor. He has been a true mentor, offering invaluable advice, facilitating key connections and constantly encouraging innovation. An anecdote told by a BNP Paribas executive sums up his direct approach well: during the early developments of electronic payments, Jean-Michel boldly suggested calling Bill Gates to add a payment button to Windows.
His influence extended beyond French borders. Covered several times by the international press, including Wired magazine, which affectionately nicknamed him “e-grandpa,” his work had a global impact. By initiating the “Internet Festival” in 1997, he contributed significantly to the popularization and democratization of the web in France, thus impacting an entire generation.
Innovation, vision and legacy
Isabelle Colin, Strategic Accounts Director at Once For All France, spoke on LinkedIn after learning the sad news: “Jean-Michel Billaut was much more than a digital pioneer: he was a visionary, a builder of the future, a man whose ideas and passion shaped the world as we know it today.” These words perfectly sum up the immense impact he had on the development of digital infrastructures and the culture of innovation.
Far from his professional accomplishments, Jean-Michel Billaut also left his mark with his endearing personality and his immense intellectual rigor. For each startup he advised, each young talent he supported, he remained an inexhaustible source of inspiration. In recognition of his merits, France decorated him with the Legion of Honor in 2000, a prestigious testament to his contribution to the country.
The many testimonies collected following his death show how much Jean-Michel Billaut held a special place in the hearts of those who work in innovation and technology. By continuing to value talent and believe in the promising future of technology, each of us perpetuates a little of his pioneering spirit. Jean-Michel Billaut will remain a shining star in the sky of French tech, inspiring present and future generations to dream big and act for a better world.
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