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Lyon, France – The City of Lyon has officially appointed Catherine Ounsamone as the new Deputy Director General for Culture, Heritage, and Events. The announcement was made on November 5, 2026, confirming that she succeeds Xavier Fourneyron in this strategic municipal role.
A Career Defined by Cultural Leadership
Catherine Ounsamone brings a wealth of experience to the Lyon administration, having held significant positions in cultural management both in France and abroad. Her professional background includes a tenure as a project manager for development, public relations, and partnerships for the City of Bordeaux between 2008 and 2016.
Following her time in Bordeaux, Ounsamone served as the Deputy Cultural Counselor for the French Embassy in Japan from 2017 to 2022. Her international expertise was further complemented by a four-year term as the Director of Culture for the City of Marseille.
Recognition of Excellence
Her contributions to the cultural sector have been widely recognized. In 2024, the National Federation of Associations of Cultural Affairs Directors (FNADAC) honored her work, specifically highlighting her involvement in the acclaimed exhibition, “Baya. Une héroïne algérienne de l’art moderne” (Baya: An Algerian Heroine of Modern Art).
Strategic Direction for Lyon
Ounsamone’s appointment, which officially began on October 19, 2026, is expected to bring a fresh perspective to the cultural and heritage initiatives of Lyon. Her diverse background, spanning local administration and international diplomacy, positions her to manage the city’s extensive cultural portfolio and upcoming events effectively.
The City of Lyon continues to emphasize the importance of cultural development, and this leadership change marks a new chapter in the city’s efforts to promote heritage and artistic engagement.
Source: Lyon Capitale
