Dassault Systèmes Appoints New Chairman of the Board

Dassault Systèmes reports that Bernard Charlès has informed the board of directors, with immediate effect, that he is stepping down as executive chairman and member of the board, for personal reasons.

The board has unanimously decided that Pascal Daloz, chief executive officer of Dassault Systèmes, becomes chairman and chief executive officer, in line with the recommendation of the Compensation and Nomination Committee, as of February 21, 2026. 

“I am honored to succeed Bernard Charlès as Chairman of Dassault Systèmes, in addition to my mission as CEO," says Pascal Daloz, Dassault Systèmes’ chairman of the board and chief executive officer. I would like to thank Bernard for his trust, his unwavering support and his inspiration. We share the same vision: pushing the boundaries of science and imagination to change the lives of consumers, patients and citizens—bringing 'virtual worlds to real life.' We also share a common conviction about the plan required to turn that vision into reality.

"As co-founder and CEO, Bernard guided our company from a startup to a world leader," Daloz continues. "The inspiration behind Dassault Systèmes' leading technologies, he has instilled a culture of ongoing innovation within our organization. I thank Bernard for his offer to remain available to help us accelerate the adoption of 3D UNIV+RSES powered by AI. Our ambition is clear: to lead the transformation powered by Industrial AI through 3D UNIV+RSES.”

“I have requested to be released, for personal reasons, from my duties as Executive Chairman of the Board of Dassault Systèmes," Charlès comments. "As co-founder of our company, alongside Charles Edelstenne, I am truly pleased that Pascal Daloz succeeds me in this role. Pascal and I have worked side by side for 25 years, and he has my full confidence to both lead the company and organize the Board's work. I love and am deeply proud of Dassault Systèmes—its people, its teams, its customers, its purpose and values and what we build together. I am, at heart, a product and technology leader; this is my passion. I will remain fully available to the company to accelerate the adoption of 3D UNIV+RSES. Pascal and his remarkable team will drive further this tremendous heritage for the success of our clients, partners and shareholders.”

“On behalf of the Board, I want to thank Bernard Charlès for his relentless leadership to position Dassault Systèmes as a world leader in PLM, which is recognized by all industries," says Charles Edelstenne, founder and honorary chairman. "In the past 3 years, he has carefully prepared his succession: ensuring the 7th generation of our AI-based industry solutions is well engaged and transmitting his career legacy, constantly aiming for the highest quality standards. With Pascal Daloz, the company is in good hands for the future." 

Sources: Press materials received from the company and additional information gleaned from the company’s website.