Early Life
Jacques Merceron-Vicat was born on March 22, 1938, in La Tronche, France. He is a descendant of Louis Vicat, who invented artificial cement in 1817, laying the foundation for the family's involvement in the cement industry.
Rise to Success
After graduating from École Nationale des Travaux Publics de l'État in 1962, Jacques Merceron-Vicat joined the family business, Vicat Group, as an exploitation engineer. He started his career working alongside his father, André Merceron-Vicat. Over time, he rose through the ranks, contributing to the construction of the Créchy cement plant, which was inaugurated in 1968. Merceron-Vicat was instrumental in the international development of the company, starting with its presence in the southeastern United States. He became General Director of the Vicat company in 1973 and, subsequently, Chairman and CEO in 1984. During his tenure, he implemented policies focused on modernization, energy efficiency, and automation in cement units. He gave the company an international dimension by building a strong industrial base in four continents and 11 countries.
Key Business Strategies
Under Jacques Merceron-Vicat's leadership, Vicat Group implemented several key business strategies. He focused on restructuring the production apparatus and expanding the company's international presence. He played a crucial role in acquiring the Ragland Cement Plant in Alabama in 1974, marking a significant step in the group's global expansion. The group's expansion continued with acquisitions and Greenfield factories. Vicat entered the Indian cement industry in 2008 and acquired a major stake in Bharathi Cement Corporation Private Limited in 2010 to further its footprint in India.
Philanthropy
Vicat Group supports local communities through various initiatives. Community service is a priority for the Vicat group globally. Initiatives have included supporting local authorities, associations, and NGOs for concrete initiatives. In India, a socio-medical center near the Kalburgi cement plant was founded to provide remote consultations. The company also supports education through local government programs and provides merit-based scholarships in Senegal.