Former Amazon executive joins Advent International as an operating partner

Advent International (Advent), a global private equity investor, has announced the appointment of Xavier Garambois as an operating partner.

Garambois brings a wealth of experience and expertise in the eCommerce and logistics sectors, having spent 18 years at Amazon and leading its European consumer business from 2012 until 2020. Under his leadership, Amazon’s European operations experienced strong growth and the business launched a number of innovative initiatives, including building the company’s European Fulfillment Network. Prior to his appointment as VP head of European consumer business in 2012, he spent seven years as president of Amazon.fr, having originally joined as finance director in 2002.

He will work with a number of investment teams at Advent, leveraging his experience in eCommerce, logistics and technology, to advise on how increasing the use of digital and technology can act as a disruptor across different sectors and geographies.

Commenting on his appointment, Xavier Garambois said: “I am delighted to have the opportunity to partner with Advent International at such an exciting time for the business and I am very much looking forward to collaborating with a diverse and experienced team. I am also excited to be working across Advent International’s broad range of portfolio companies and sector teams to boost sustainable growth and build relationships in the sector that I have been working in for over 20 years.”

“Xavier has demonstrated great leadership at Amazon and has played a key role in building and expanding its retail business across Europe”, said Nick Rose, managing director at Advent International. “We are delighted to welcome Xavier as an Operating Partner. He brings valuable industry experience to Advent International globally and to our portfolio companies. He should be able to help us realise new investment opportunities and support our operations across numerous portfolio companies.”