Pascal DUPEYRAT is a strategic advisor specializing in institutional support for M&A operations in sensitive and regulated sectors. He is particularly an expert in foreign investment control, notably in the French (IEF) and American (CFIUS) frameworks. In this capacity, he assists foreign investors as well as French companies in their dealings with public authorities.
Founder of Relians
Pascal is the founder of the lobbying and public affairs firm RELIANS, established in 2002. Before launching his own firm, he gained extensive expertise as a legal advisor at an international law firm. His proficiency in business law and institutional relations later led him to serve as a Technical Advisor to Parliament, within a ministerial office, and then as a Parliamentary Assistant in both the Senate and the National Assembly. Through RELIANS, Pascal has developed a methodical approach to lobbying, which he defines as the art of defending and promoting his clients’ interests before public decision-makers.
Strategic Advisor
Over the past two decades, Pascal has worked on a wide range of complex cases, establishing himself as a leading strategic advisor. He has been particularly active in handling foreign investment transactions in France (IEF) and structuring the institutional framework for the sale of sensitive assets deemed strategic by the state. Among his most notable achievements, he advised on the sale of Alcatel Submarine Networks (ASN), a key infrastructure operator for national security. With a deep understanding of the economic and geopolitical stakes involved in each case, Pascal helps shape solutions that align with his clients’ strategic interests while ensuring compliance with regulatory requirements.
Expert in Foreign Investment Control (IEF and CFIUS)
As a specialist in regulated investments, Pascal has built a strong reputation in the field of foreign investment control, both in France and internationally. Leveraging this expertise, he has authored several reference books on the subject.
– In 2011, he published *The Guide to Investments in Strategic Sectors*, a manual exploring the constraints and opportunities for foreign investors.
– In 2014, he followed up with *Globalization and Economic Patriotism*, a reflection on the challenges globalization poses to national interests.
– In 2020, his book *Economic Security and Industrial Sovereignty* examined the protection of key industrial sectors.
– In 2022, he released *CFIUS: Foreign Investment Control in the United States*, an analysis of U.S. investment screening procedures.
– In 2024, he completed this series with *IEF: Foreign Investment Control in France*.
In these works, Pascal analyzes the principles and rules governing foreign investment control, offering valuable insights for mergers and acquisitions in sensitive sectors. Additionally, he authored *Lobbying: From Denial to Challenge* (2016), which explores the evolution and stakes of lobbying.
Specialist in Franco-American Relations
Beyond his professional career, Pascal is deeply committed to citizen diplomacy. He serves as the Executive President of Cercle Jefferson, an association of French alumni from the International Visitor Leadership Program (IVLP), a U.S. government initiative. This network of over 500 French leaders from political, administrative, and civil society spheres fosters dialogue between French and American decision-makers.
Recognized for his contributions to Franco-American relations, Pascal was named an Eisenhower Fellow by the Eisenhower Foundation in 2012. From 2014 to 2020, he also served on the Board of Directors of GlobalTies, an organization dedicated to strengthening international relations and welcoming future global leaders to the United States.
Honors and Academic Background
Pascal is a Knight of the National Order of Merit, a distinction recognizing his contributions to public affairs and civic engagement. He holds a degree from the Institut d’Études Politiques de Paris (Public Service section) and a Master’s degree in Public Law from Paris II Panthéon-Assas University, specializing in Public Business Law.