Frederic Van Heems, previously a leading figure at the French environmental services company Veolia, has been announced as the new president of Keolis, the public transport arm of SNCF. This appointment was made unanimously by the supervisory board of Keolis during their meeting on February 25, emphasizing the board's confidence in Van Heems' ability to lead the organization.

Van Heems will succeed Marie-Ange Debon, who was in the position for a brief four months before her appointment as head of La Poste. His leadership roles in various sectors, particularly in Veolia, suggest a robust background in managing complex organizations, which could be beneficial for navigating the public transport challenges in France. This change in leadership comes at a time when urban transport systems are under pressure to adapt to post-pandemic realities and evolving passenger needs.

The appointment of Van Heems could signal a strategic shift for Keolis as it confronts challenges such as increasing competition in the public transport sector and the need for innovation in service delivery. His experience in a related field may be pivotal in driving the company's agenda toward enhanced efficiency and sustainability, which are crucial for the future of urban transportation in France and beyond.