Perfumer
Michel Girard
Michel Girard, born in 1957, was always destined for a career in the world of perfumery. Raised in Grasse, the French city worldwide known as the capital of perfumery, Michel grew up surrounded by enchanting floral aromas and the rich history of perfume creation. In 1974, he graduated from Lycée Fénelon de Grasse, where he cultivated his passion for aromas and embarked on his journey to become a celebrated perfumer.
Before joining Givaudan in 1998, Michel Girard gained valuable experience working for several companies, including Robertet. In 1986, he joined Quest International and obtained the title of Senior Perfumer. His exceptional talent and experience led him to collaborate with prestigious brands such as Givenchy, Gucci, Jennifer Lopez, and Valentino.
Michel Girard’s unique approach to perfume creation is characterized by his upbringing in Grasse, his knowledge of diverse cultures, and his extensive experience working with fragrance houses of worldwide renown. His inspirations are deeply rooted in his personal history and in the global experiences he gained while traveling.
Michel Girard has created numerous iconic fragrances for well-known brands throughout his illustrious career. Among his most notable creations are Baby Touch and Touch For Women for Burberry, Cerruti 1881 Black For Men and Cerruti pour Homme, Christian Lacroix’s Bazar pour Homme, and Givenchy’s Extravagance d'Amarige. Michel has also collaborated with Guy Laroche and Azzaro.
However, with Paco Rabanne, Michel Girard reached one of the most significant milestones of his career, as he played a crucial role in the development of the iconic men’s fragrance 1 Million. This scent is considered one of Michel’s most important achievements and symbolizes his extraordinary talent as a perfumer.
Today, Michel Girard is recognized as a third-generation perfumer who has dedicated his life to the art of fragrance creation. As a perfumer at Givaudan since 2007, Michel continues to create extraordinary fragrances that delight and captivate people around the world. His creations reflect his deep knowledge of the olfactory world and his ability to craft memorable aromas that stand the test of time.