Frank E. Dangeard

Frank E. Dangeard
25 February 1958 - 13 August 2025

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Frank, a remarkable individual who played a foundational role in shaping STJ Advisors.  Frank served as the first Chairman of our Advisory Board and was a true inspiration behind the creation and success of the firm. 

Frank brought a rare combination of leadership, wisdom, integrity and support in everything he did.  He was deeply admired for his strong moral compass and his fearless commitment to challenging irrational or self-serving behaviour – always holding himself and others to the highest standards.  His thoughtful, kind and caring guidance helped us navigate some of the firm’s most complex and defining moments and made him a respected and valued colleague and friend. 

A legendary figure in European finance, Frank was one of the most sought-after bankers of his generation leading the team at S.G. Warburg in both France and Spain.  He then moved to the French Trésor and was appointed as Chair & CEO of Thomson and then Deputy CEO of France Telecom, responsible for major turnarounds in both businesses. 

The work we did together on the France Telecom rights issue and the Pages Jaunes IPO inspired a new approach to independent Capital Markets advisory which materially improved outcomes for issuers, shareholders and the market.  This ultimately led to the formation of STJ Advisors. 

After studying at École des hautes études Commerciales de Paris he then gained a postgraduate degree at Harvard Law School and an undergraduate degree at Sciences Po. On top of his academic, legal and financial qualifications he had a wide variety of interests ranging from sailing, boatbuilding, art collecting, literature, opera and the sea, particularly walks on the coast at his home at Knokke.   

He was one of the first truly international finance and business leaders at ease in different industries and jurisdictions.  After France Télecom and Thomson he continued to build his reputation as a titan of the international corporate world with Chairman/CEO roles at Norton Life Lock Inc, Technicolor SA, Telenor ASA, the Strategy Board of Price WaterhouseCoopers France and NatWest Markets.  He also held numerous Board roles at Crédit Agricole CIB, France, IHS (UK), Home Credit, Eutelsat (France), Arqiva (UK), RPX (USA), Symantec (USA), Hindustan Power (India) and EDF (France. 

His deep international finance and corporate experience also led to roles as NED of Competition and Markets Authority UK, Member of Advisory Board Harvard Business School and Director-In-Residence INSEAD. 

He combined enormous intellect with a deep personal connection, was constantly curious and willing to invest time and effort mentoring and guiding considerably beyond his role and time suggested.  He inspired countless members of our team and brought clarity, discipline and strategic insight to our boardroom.  His presence elevated our organisation.  His absence will be deeply felt for many years to come. 

Our heartfelt condolences go to his wife and daughter.   

Frank will be dearly missed. 

John St. John
Founder, Chairman & CEO
STJ Advisors