Shahin Hodjati

Graduating with a PhD in Physics and Chemistry from the University of Strasbourg in 1999, Shahin Hodjati started his career with Renault, working on the treatment of exhaust gases. Right from the start he worked with academic researchers to develop innovative materials for the post-treatment of these gases, at the same time developing his management skills while running a team of 13. As a result, no fewer than eight patents were filed at the start of the 2000s.

In 2005 Hodjati went to Iran, still working for Renault, to become operations manager for the installation of production tools, involving the relocation of manufacturing for 60% of the vehicle. He managed six teams and a budget of 3 million euros. He devoted his last two years with the car manufacturer to the optimisation of the entire supply chain.

2010 was a turning point: Hodjati and his associates set up Maya Solar Solutions, an SME specialising in innovative use of solar technology.

Three years later, Shahin Hodjati accepted the position of Deputy Executive Director at the Systematic-Paris-Région competitiveness cluster. He ran operational teams and public and private strategic partnerships.

After his initial scientific training, Hodjati’s whole career has involved bringing together research, strategy and high-level operational management, multiple skills that today will enable him to manage development of, and support for, innovation at INRIA.