François holds degrees in oenology and a Diplôme d’Études et de Recherches (DER) in viticulture, as well as a Postgraduate Research Diploma from the University of Burgundy under the supervision of Roger Bessis. He also earned one of the first MBAs in France, specializing in project management, and graduated from a grande école in agricultural engineering and food science.

Over the course of his career, François has served as Director of Public Relations and Business Development at Yakult Europe in France, and as Coordinator for Corporate Relations and Regional Products at SOPEXA. He also led the development of international relations at the Permanent Assembly of Chambers of Trade and Crafts (APCMA).

François later worked as Administrator and Advisor at Le Cordon Bleu, based in Tokyo. He further expanded his practical wine experience as an Assistant Winemaker at DeLoach Vineyards and through wine studies in Chile.

He is also the owner of Champagne Lavergne and the creator of Kaviar liqueur.