Serge Kampf (1934–2016) was a pioneering French entrepreneur who laid the foundation for what would become one of the world’s most influential consulting and technology services firms—Capgemini. Known for his sharp business acumen, relentless pursuit of excellence, and quiet philanthropy, Kampf left an indelible legacy that continues to shape the digital consulting landscape.

Early Life and Education: The Making of a Tech Titan

Born on October 13, 1934, in Grenoble, France, Serge Kampf had Swiss roots and an early inclination toward academia. He earned dual degrees in law and economics, signaling a blend of analytical rigor and legal foresight that would later define his corporate decisions.

After failing to secure admission into the prestigious École nationale d’administration, Kampf began his career in 1960 at the Direction générale des Télécommunications in Paris. His stint at French computer manufacturer Bull from 1964 to 1967 gave him his first exposure to the rapidly evolving world of technology and computing.

Founding of Capgemini: A French Startup Goes Global

In 1967, Serge Kampf co-founded Sogeti (Société pour la gestion et le traitement de l’information) in Grenoble, which began as a small IT services firm. Under his leadership, the company grew aggressively through strategic acquisitions:

• 1973: Acquired a majority stake in CAP (Centre d’analyse et de Programmation).
• 1974: Acquired the American company Gemini Computer Systems.

These deals culminated in the formation of CAP Gemini Sogeti in 1975, which would later simplify its name to Capgemini. The company listed on the Paris Stock Exchange in 1985, and by 1988, it joined the prestigious CAC 40 index, establishing itself as a dominant player in global IT and consulting services.

Kampf’s approach to integrating acquisitions, decentralizing decision-making, and nurturing client relationships set Capgemini apart in an industry characterized by rapid change and high competition.

Philanthropy and Passion for Rugby

Beyond boardrooms and balance sheets, Serge Kampf had a lifelong passion for rugby, a sport he credited with teaching him values of teamwork, discipline, and resilience.

Capgemini and its subsidiary Sogeti became major sponsors of several French rugby clubs, including FC Grenoble Rugby and Biarritz Olympique. Kampf also served as honorary president of the French Barbarians, a prestigious invitational rugby team.

In 2011, he personally donated €500,000 to rescue CS Bourgoin-Jallieu, a struggling French rugby club, from insolvency. His contributions to sports were matched by support for medical research, including funding part of the Grenoble Institute of Neuroscience, which later named a lecture hall in his honor.

Legacy of a Visionary

Serge Kampf passed away on March 15, 2016, in his hometown of Grenoble, at the age of 81. His passing marked the end of a remarkable era for Capgemini and for European entrepreneurship.

He was posthumously honored as a Commander of the Legion of Honour, France’s highest civil award. His legacy is not only embedded in the thousands of careers shaped by Capgemini’s global footprint but also in the values of discipline, humility, and generosity that defined his life and leadership.

Today, Capgemini stands as a $20+ billion revenue enterprise with a presence in over 50 countries—an enduring testament to the vision Serge Kampf set in motion nearly six decades ago.