Bernard Charlès is a graduate of the Ecole Normale Supérieure engineering school in Cachan and has a PhD in mechanical engineering majoring in automation engineering and information science. He also holds an Aggregation in mechanical engineering; this is the most senior teaching qualification achievable in France. He has been CEO of Dassault Systèmes, a world leader in 3D software and a global top-ten software company, since September 1995 and Vice-Chairman of the Board of Directors since May 2016. Bernard Charlès joined the company in 1983 to develop new design technologies and created the New Technology, Research and Strategy division. In 1988 he was appointed president of Strategy, Research & Development. Through his contributions to digital mock-up, product lifecycle management and 3DEXPERIENCE®, Bernard Charlès helped instill a culture of ongoing innovation to further consolidate Dassault Systèmes’ scientific capabilities and make science part of the company’s identity. Bernard Charlès is a member of the Academy of Technology (France), of the National Academy of Engineering (United States) and he holds the rank of Officer in the “Légion d’honneur” (French Legion of Honor).