Jean-Jacques Damlamian was born in Paris on May 29, 1942. A graduate of the Polytechnic School (1961) and the Higher National School of Telecommunications, Damlamian has worked in various departments at France Télécom‘s (now Orange) CNET R&D laboratories, local and intercity network departments, and at its headquarters as a personal assistant to the company’s CEO.
In 1988-1989, Damlamian served as vice president of mobile communication services for France Télécom. At this position, he launched numerous GSM network projects.
Under Damlamian’s leadership, France Télécom has established strategic points of presence in the world and has invested heavily in foreign networks (namely, in Telecom Argentina and the Mexican Telmex).
In 1991-1995, Damlamian served as senior vice president of marketing and sales for France Télécom. In 1996-2002, he worked in the company’s development group, where he was responsible for the strategies of the development of international business, R&D, and information systems. Since April 2004, he has been a special advisor to the general director of France Télécom.
During this period, he has been the co-author of all changes in the France Télécom business. In particular, he greatly contributed to the introduction of high-speed Internet access (ADSL) in the country.
Damlamian has for some time served as the Chairman of the Supervisory Board of Eutelsat since March 2001. From 2003 to 2004, he served as Senior Vice President of Corporate Technologies and Innovations. At this position, he was responsible for the R&D teams, innovation management, and intellectual property management and licensing.
Among the awards and orders of Damlamian are the French Legion of Honor, the National Order of Merit of France, and Ordre des Palmes Académiques (an award bestowed on distinguished figures in the world of culture and education).
