Stéphane Gompertz is a graduate of the École normale supérieure, holds a degree in classical literature, and is also a graduate of the École nationale d’administration. He taught medieval literature before becoming a diplomat. He was director of Africa at the Quai d’Orsay, ambassador to Ethiopia and Austria. He is a high-impact investment fund advisor, and volunteers for several associations. His hobbies include jogging, classical music concerts, and choral singing.