President Macron has praised Kohler for his dedication and significant contributions to their political project, acknowledging the impact of their collective efforts.

Kohler's decision to exit public life is reportedly driven by a desire to escape media scrutiny and political pressures, especially following a sensitive investigation involving the Mediterranean Shipping Company (MSC), linked to his family.

Kohler was the last remaining member of Macron's original team from 2017, known as the 'mormons,' who were crucial to his election victory.

Alexis Kohler, a pivotal aide to President Emmanuel Macron since 2017, is preparing to leave the Elysée Palace for a position in the banking sector, with his departure anticipated in mid-April 2025.

Notably, Kohler is the longest-serving Secretary General in the role's history, having played a central role in significant government decisions during his tenure.

At 52, Kohler is regarded as one of France's most influential figures and is set to join Société Générale, where he will lead mergers and acquisitions, equity capital markets, and acquisition finance activities.

His departure comes amid ongoing controversies, including his refusal to testify before parliamentary inquiries regarding financial management, which could lead to legal consequences.

Despite being confirmed for a second term in 2022, Kohler's experiences, including a challenging Senate hearing in 2019, have taken a toll on him.

Emmanuel Moulin, a former director of the Treasury, will succeed Kohler as Secretary General, marking a significant transition in Macron's administration.

Kohler's new role at Société Générale comes at a time of significant labor unrest in the banking sector, with unions calling for strikes over pay and working conditions.

Since 2022, Kohler has faced legal scrutiny over allegations of illegal interests related to MSC, although he contests these accusations and is pursuing a legal appeal.

Speculation about Kohler's exit has been rife for the past two and a half years, particularly following the dissolution of the National Assembly and the presidential camp's losses in the July 2024 legislative elections.