A flexibly-structured,family-owned group

Sonepar USA is a member of the Sonepar group. Sonepar group is a private, family-owned group ever since its inception, Sonepar is supported by a network structure that mobilizes our specialists in each sector. At the group's helm is a close-knit management team backed by a concentrated holdingcompany structure.

A flexible organization,a family-owned private shareholder base
Sonepar's family shareholders and future shareholders are closely involved in the group and are encouraged to become intimately acquainted with its business activities. Shareholders are active members of the Boards of Directors of group operating companies and regularly attend annual general meetings and other Sonepar events. They actively support the growth policy pursued by the general management by accepting a conservative dividend distribution policy.

An experienced board
In all, the eleven members of Sonepar's "Conseil d'Administration" have acquired 275 years of experience in the world of business and 150 years of membership on corporate boards.

The "Conseil d'Administration" operates smoothly, with at least four meetings each year featuring in-depth, well-structured presentations, useful discussions among members, and a regular flow of information between meetings.

Strict observance of corporate governance principles
The work of the audit and remuneration committees lays the groundwork for and feeds into full board meetings. Particular attention is paid to the internal control mechanism adopted by the group and applied in all countries where it operates.

General management
The group's deputy managing directors are responsible for running day-to-day operations and external business development.

Frank H. Lakerveld is in charge of operations and policy management for country entities, while François Poncet runs the holding company, manages risk and exercises financial control over the different country structures.

This distribution of roles among general management allows the chairman and chief executive officer to concentrate on the strategic decisions that are capital to the future of the group. Together, they are supported by a dedicated, flexible structure at the holding company level, and by the network of specialists who sit on the international committees.