New York & London – November 14, 2025 – Blackstone Inc (BX.N) has announced the appointment of Franck Petitgas as senior managing director and vice chairman for Europe, a newly created role aimed at strengthening the firm’s strategic initiatives and client engagement across the region. Petitgas will officially assume his position in January 2026.

Background on Franck Petitgas

Petitgas brings over 30 years of experience in investment banking from his tenure at Morgan Stanley (MS.N), where he held multiple senior positions, including head of Morgan Stanley International and co-head of the firm’s Global Investment Banking division. His deep expertise in capital markets and cross-border advisory roles positions him to enhance Blackstone’s presence in the European private equity and alternative investments sector.

Following his retirement from Morgan Stanley in 2023, Petitgas served as chief business adviser to former British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak. He was subsequently appointed to the House of Lords in 2024, further cementing his influence in European financial and political circles.

Strategic Focus at Blackstone

Blackstone highlighted that Petitgas’s appointment aligns with the firm’s goal to capitalize on investment opportunities in Europe, where it anticipates deploying over $500 billion in assets over the next decade. His responsibilities will include guiding strategic growth initiatives, enhancing client relationships, and identifying high-value investment opportunities across multiple sectors in the region.

The new vice chairman role reflects Blackstone’s intent to strengthen leadership in Europe amid growing opportunities in real estate, infrastructure, private equity, and credit markets. Petitgas’s experience in international banking and governance is expected to provide valuable insights into cross-border transactions, regulatory navigation, and client advisory.

Implications for the European Market

Industry analysts suggest that Petitgas’s appointment could boost Blackstone’s competitive edge in Europe’s private equity and investment landscape. His network, combined with Blackstone’s capital deployment plans, positions the firm to expand its footprint in sectors poised for growth, including technology, sustainable infrastructure, and renewable energy investments.

The move also signals Blackstone’s commitment to deepening its European operations and fostering long-term relationships with institutional clients, family offices, and sovereign wealth funds.

Outlook

Franck Petitgas’s transition to Blackstone marks a significant leadership addition at a time when European investment opportunities are rapidly expanding. As Blackstone continues to deploy capital across key markets, Petitgas will play a pivotal role in shaping the firm’s strategic vision and investment execution across the continent, strengthening its position as a leading global alternative asset manager.