Xavier Gondaud's Vision for Aviation Innovation

*Xavier Gondaud’s Vision for Aviation Innovation As the aviation sector evolves at breakneck speed, one French security leader is reshaping the future of airport services. Xavier Gondaud, CEO and Chairman of WO Group, shares his bold vision for innovation, leadership and transformation in a rapidly shifting industry.

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our publication: You’ve led major change within the aviation security space. How would you describe your leadership philosophy during times of transformation? Xavier Gondaud: True leadership, in my view, is about clarity, consistency and courage. When we transitioned from Securitas Aviation to WO Group, it wasn’t just a rebrand—it was a strategic realignment. My role was to ensure that every team member understood not only what we were doing, but why. Transformation can be unsettling, but when people understand the purpose behind the change, they become part of the solution. That’s the foundation of any successful evolution.

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WO Group has a strong presence across 10 major French airports. How do you tailor your services to meet such diverse client needs? Each airport is unique—its challenges, its stakeholders, its growth trajectory. Our approach is not one-size-fits-all. We work closely with clients like Groupe ADP, Vinci Airports, and Air France-KLM to develop custom solutions that align with their long-term strategies. Whether it’s enhancing passenger experience, strengthening security protocols, or boosting operational efficiency, we’re not just executing tasks—we’re enabling our clients to achieve their strategic goals. That’s what sets us apart.

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Innovation is clearly a core pillar of your strategy. How is WO Group embracing new technologies? Innovation isn’t a department here—it’s embedded in everything we do. Take the Paris 2024 Olympics, for instance. We deployed specialized teams for anti-drone operations, a first for many of our clients. It required agility, foresight, and the right tech infrastructure. We’re also investing heavily in 3D security screening technology for cabin baggage. This isn’t just about compliance; it’s about creating a more seamless and secure journey for passengers while maintaining the highest safety standards.

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How do you ensure your workforce is ready for these technological shifts? Technology is only as powerful as the people using it. That’s why we’ve placed upskilling at the heart of our innovation strategy. Our WorkOut training center is instrumental in preparing our 2,800 employees for the future. We’re not just teaching them how to operate new systems—we’re helping them understand the broader impact of those systems on security, efficiency, and customer experience. The airport of tomorrow is digital, dynamic, and data-driven. Our teams need to be just as agile.

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What does the airport of the future look like from your perspective? I see airports evolving into full-fledged urban ecosystems—multimodal, intelligent, and hyper-connected. Think of them as cities within cities, where every touchpoint is optimized for flow, safety, and service. Projects like CDG 2035 are already paving the way for this transformation. For WO Group, it’s about preparing for three major transitions: digital, ecological, and social. We’re investing in smart data platforms, sustainable practices, and inclusive workforce development to ensure we’re not just keeping pace, but setting it.

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Sustainability and corporate responsibility are increasingly important. How is WO Group responding to these expectations? We take our social and environmental responsibilities seriously. Across our three divisions—WatchOver, WelcomeOne, and WorkOut—we’re integrating ESG principles into every aspect of our operations. Whether it’s reducing our carbon footprint, fostering diversity in recruitment, or ensuring ethical labor practices, we’re committed to being a responsible partner. In an industry under constant scrutiny, integrity isn’t optional—it’s essential.

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You’ve been in the aviation security sector for over two decades. What keeps you motivated? Every day brings a new challenge, a new opportunity to make a difference. Aviation is a dynamic, high-stakes environment, and the work we do has real impact—not just on our clients, but on millions of passengers who trust us to keep them safe. That sense of purpose is what drives me. And seeing our teams grow, adapt, and excel in this fast-moving space—that’s what makes leadership rewarding.

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Looking ahead, what are your top priorities for WO Group? First, we’re focused on deepening our technological capabilities, particularly in data analytics and AI-driven security solutions. Second, we’re expanding our footprint strategically, both in France and beyond. And third, we’re reinforcing our culture of innovation and continuous learning. The aviation industry doesn’t stand still, and neither do we. We’re not just responding to the future—we’re shaping it.

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Any final thoughts for fellow executives navigating transformation in their own sectors? Transformation isn’t a destination—it’s a journey. Stay close to your people, stay curious, and don’t be afraid to challenge the status quo. The most successful organizations are those that see change not as a threat, but as an opportunity to evolve, lead, and redefine what’s possible.

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WO Group, under Xavier Gondaud’s leadership, is proving that with vision, agility, and a people-first approach, even traditional industries can soar into the future.*