Louise Auffray has been appointed as the director of Strategy for SNCF Gares & Connexions, a position she began on September 21. In this role, she joins the management committee of the SNCF Réseau subsidiary, which is responsible for managing France’s national rail network. Auffray, who is 29 years old, is a graduate of Sciences Po Paris and HEC, two prestigious French institutions known for training future leaders in public administration and business. She also attended the École Nationale d'Administration (ENA), a French school that trains high-level civil servants. Auffray started her career in the French government, working at the Ministry of Economy and Finance within the General Inspection of Finances. This department is responsible for overseeing financial operations and ensuring compliance with fiscal regulations across the country. Her new role involves leading the strategic plan for the station manager, a key figure in overseeing the day-to-day operations of train stations. In her position, Auffray will be responsible for coordinating the innovation policy and operational excellence across SNCF Gares & Connexions. This includes implementing new technologies and improving the efficiency of services provided at train stations. Her responsibilities will also involve aligning the company’s goals with broader national transportation strategies. Auffray’s appointment comes at a time when France’s rail network is undergoing significant changes, with a focus on modernizing infrastructure and improving passenger experience. As a young leader entering a high-level management role, her background in both public administration and business is expected to bring fresh perspectives to the organization.