SAINT-OUEN-SUR-SEINE, France — Martin Sion will become Alstom’s new CEO, effective April 1, 2026, the company’s board of directors announced on Wednesday (Oct. 8, 2025).
Sion will succeed Henri Poupart-Lafarge, CEO of the multinational rail rolling stock and equipment firm since February 2016. Poupart-Lafarge announced in May that he would not seek a further term as CEO [see “Alstom CEO Poupart-Lafarge announces …,” Trains.com, May 16, 2025].
“The Board has conducted an extensive search process over the last few months, and we believe that Martin Sion has the necessary experience to lead Alstom,” Philippe Petitcolin, chairman of the Alstom board, said in a press release. “We look forward to welcoming him in April 2026. Until then, Henri Poupart-Lafarge will continue in his role, thus ensuring a smooth transition.”
Sion, whose early career included a stint at the Sandia National Laboratories in New Mexico, has an extensive aerospace background. He spent 15 years at the Société Européenne de Propulsion; held several positions at French aircraft and rocket engine manufacturer Snecma (now Safran Aircraft Engines), including heading its Space Engines Division from 2010 to 2013; became CEO of Aircelle (now Safran Nacelles) in 2013, and was appointed chairman of Safran Electronics and defense in 2015. A member of ArianeGroup’s board of directors since 202, he became the company’s CEO oi 2023.
The board also approved the recommendation of its Nominations and Remuneration Committee that Sion receive an annual salary of €1.05 million ($1.22 million), with annual performance bonuses that could reach as high as 185% of the base salary, depending on company performance. Additional compensation in the form of stock is also part of the package spelled out here.
