Serge Kampf

Serge Kampf
Born	13 October 1934 Grenoble, France
Died	15 March 2016 (aged 81) Grenoble, France
Nationality	French
Occupation	Entrepreneur, Businessman
Known for	Founder of Capgemini

Serge Kampf (13 October 1934 – 15 March 2016) was a French entrepreneur and the founder of Capgemini, a global leader in consulting, technology services, and digital transformation. Renowned for his visionary leadership, Kampf transformed the company into one of the world’s top IT and business consulting firms.

Early Life and Education

Born in Grenoble, France, Serge Kampf had Swiss roots. He pursued dual degrees in law and economics. After an unsuccessful attempt to join the École nationale d'administration, he began his career in 1960 at the French Ministry of Telecommunications. He later joined Bull, a French computer manufacturer, where he worked until 1967.

Founding Capgemini

In 1967, Kampf founded Sogeti (Société pour la gestion et le traitement de l'information) in Grenoble. His strategic vision led to rapid growth through major acquisitions:

• In 1973, Sogeti acquired a majority stake in CAP (Centre d'analyse et de Programmation).
• In 1974, it acquired the U.S.-based Gemini Computer Systems.

These mergers resulted in the formation of CAP Gemini Sogeti in 1975, later renamed Capgemini. The company went public in 1985 and joined France’s CAC 40 index in 1988, establishing its presence as a multinational leader in IT services.

Passion for Rugby and Philanthropy

Serge Kampf was a lifelong supporter of rugby and used his influence and resources to promote the sport in France. Both Capgemini and Sogeti were major sponsors of clubs such as FC Grenoble Rugby and Biarritz Olympique. He also served as honorary president of the French Barbarians team.

In 2011, he personally donated €500,000 to rescue CS Bourgoin-Jallieu from bankruptcy. His philanthropic contributions extended beyond sports—he supported education and healthcare initiatives. A lecture hall at the Grenoble Institute of Neuroscience was named in his honor for his support during its development.

Legacy

Serge Kampf passed away on 15 March 2016 in his hometown of Grenoble at the age of 81. He was honored as a Commander of the Legion of Honour, one of France’s highest civilian recognitions. Kampf is remembered as a visionary who revolutionized the IT services industry in Europe and globally, while also dedicating his wealth and influence to public causes.