Isabelle Hannedouche on Global Expansion and Strategic Vision

*Isabelle Hannedouche on Global Expansion and Strategic Vision As Sodexo strengthens its foothold in China through strategic acquisitions and innovation, CEO Isabelle Hannedouche shares how data-driven decisions, sustainability, and people-centric leadership are shaping the company’s future.*

our publication: You’ve spent over two decades with Sodexo, now leading its operations across China. How has your leadership evolved alongside the company’s global growth? Isabelle Hannedouche: Leadership, for me, has always been about adaptability. When I joined Sodexo early in my career, the focus was largely on operational excellence. But as we expanded globally—especially here in China—the complexity of managing diverse markets, cultures, and customer expectations required a shift. Today, my leadership is anchored in strategic vision, empowered teams, and leveraging technology to drive sustainable growth. I’ve learned that scaling globally isn’t just about replicating what works—it’s about evolving with each market.

our publication: China is a critical market for Sodexo. What makes it unique compared to other regions you’ve worked in? Isabelle Hannedouche: China presents both scale and speed unlike anywhere else. With over 1.2 million customers served daily, the volume is staggering. But what truly sets it apart is the rapid pace of change—technological, economic, and social. Consumer expectations are constantly evolving, and so are the ways we deliver value. The market demands agility, and that’s something we’ve embraced. Our early entry in 1995 gave us a strong foundation, but staying relevant means continuous reinvention.

our publication: Sodexo is known for innovation. How are you driving that in China specifically? Isabelle Hannedouche: Innovation for us isn’t just about new recipes or kitchen tech—it’s about reimagining how we operate. We’ve embedded data analytics and IoT into our daily processes to make smarter decisions in real time. For instance, by tracking usage patterns across facilities, we can predict demand more accurately, reduce waste, and enhance service levels. We’re also using smart logistics to optimize everything from food delivery routes to energy consumption. It’s about precision, not just scale.

our publication: Sustainability is a growing concern globally. How is Sodexo addressing that in China? Isabelle Hannedouche: Sustainability is not optional—it’s integral. In China, we’re aligning our operations with broader ESG goals, particularly around food waste reduction and energy efficiency. By digitizing our operations, we can measure our impact more accurately and act on it. For example, our smart canteens now use AI to adjust meal portions based on real-time demand, which has significantly cut food waste. We’re also working with local suppliers to source responsibly, ensuring our footprint supports the communities we serve.

our publication: Sodexo recently acquired Compass’s China operations. What does this mean for your strategy moving forward? Isabelle Hannedouche: This acquisition positions us to accelerate our growth trajectory. It brings new clients, deeper market penetration, and enhanced capabilities. More importantly, it underscores our long-term commitment to China, even amid economic uncertainties. The integration is still underway, but the goal is clear: to offer a more comprehensive and resilient service portfolio while maintaining the quality and values that define Sodexo.

our publication: How do you ensure consistency in quality and culture across such a large and diverse team? Isabelle Hannedouche: Our people are our biggest asset. I believe that consistency starts with culture. We invest heavily in training, leadership development, and creating an inclusive environment where every team member feels valued. Regular feedback loops and digital collaboration tools help us stay connected, even across thousands of locations. It’s not about control—it’s about empowerment. When your team is aligned with the company’s mission, excellence becomes second nature.

our publication: Looking ahead, what are your strategic priorities for the next few years? Isabelle Hannedouche: Our priorities are clear: innovation, integration, and impact. We’ll continue to invest in smart technologies that improve efficiency and sustainability. The Compass integration will be a major focus as we harmonize operations and unlock synergies. And always, we’ll keep our people at the center of everything we do. China is at a pivotal moment, and Sodexo is well-positioned to lead—not just in size, but in value.

our publication: Any final thoughts for fellow leaders navigating global expansion? Isabelle Hannedouche: Stay curious, stay grounded, and never lose sight of your purpose. Global expansion is as much about understanding people as it is about markets. The companies that thrive are those that listen, adapt, and lead with integrity—no matter where they are in the world.