ECB Asks BNP Paribas for Succession Plans Amid Leadership Concerns

The European Central Bank (ECB) has sent a request to BNP Paribas asking for plans on transitioning its CEO, Jean-Laurent Bonnafé. The inquiry is part of the ECB's annual review of capital requirements and focuses on succession planning for Bonnafé, who has been in the top job since 2011.

The ECB isn't just looking at Bonnafé; it's also asking about plans for Chairman Jean Lemierre, indicating a broader governance review. Recent executive departures have raised questions about BNP Paribas' depth of internal candidates ready to take over.

In May 2025, shareholders voted 98% in favor of increasing the mandatory retirement age for the CEO position from 65 to 68 years, with an option to add one more year. Bonnafé would reach the original 65-year limit in 2026. He was re-elected for a new three-year term until the 2028 annual meeting.