Jean-Frédéric Chibret

EY World Entrepreneur Of The Year™ Class of 2023, France

President of Théa



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Jean-Frédéric Chibret continues the family vision of improving eye health. 

Jean-Frédéric Chibret finds inspiration in his family tree — he is the fifth generation committed to ophthalmology. Théa is a European leader in the field of eye care products and promotes social and sustainable development through innovations such as its ABAK bottle, the first preservative-free multi-dose bottle. 

Théa was created in 1994 by Jean-Frédéric’s uncle. Following commercial training and two years in the Spanish branch, Jean-Frédéric became involved in the international business, which he gradually managed and structured. After setting up a dozen subsidiaries from 2000 to 2008, he took over the group’s management. Since then, Théa has had a strong international presence, with 35 subsidiaries across the globe, mainly in Europe and recently in the Americas. Its products are available in 75 countries. 

Innovation is at the heart of Théa’s development. Jean-Frédéric’s purpose is to offer to doctors and their patients the most advanced and comprehensive range of eye care products. In 2019, he launched Théa Open Innovation to embrace disruptive ideas and broaden the sources of innovation. 

Last year marked the 10th anniversary of Fondation Théa, which carries on the family’s 150-year philanthropic legacy of aiding in the fight against blindness and improving eye health in developing countries.

Stay open-minded; do not be afraid of failure. Plan for the long term while constantly being able to adapt to the unexpected.